To be worried about the pitfalls…

[TheBeaTgoeson1]

Hello, can anyone help. About to embark on a very small renovation, a very small extension/utility room, and some internal changes, including knocking down a couple of walls. Quotes have come in, and we really like a particular Builder, Costs seem fine, and we are just making a final decision about whether to go ahead. We are in Derbyshire, but fairly rural.

Obviously we are making lots of decisions in terms of new kitchen, and other bits and pieces for the interior. But with a small building project, are there any pitfalls that you would recommend we look out for.

I guess by that I mean what stage should we get up before we greenlight a builder?

Should we be asking for them to break down absolutely every bolt and screw in a quote, are their particular payment terms that we should avoid, obviously wouldn’t pay upfront fully. I’m expecting more payment before, and then perhaps some payment during, and then final payment on finish.

Anyway, any hints and tips about people who involved on similar size projects would be much appreciated!

I almost don’t know what I’m asking, but that’s because it’s also new to me. So any learning or wisdom would be much appreciated.

Thanks!

We did a similar sounding project last year and we're really happy with the terms our builders worked under. They gave us a very detailed quote (almost every nut and bolt but not quite) which meant we didn't go over budget on any of the initial agreed work. Other builders we got quotes from literally gave us a five line quote with barely any detail which made us very nervous that costs would spiral. We added a few extra bits along the way and each time they gave us an add on quote in the same detail before proceeding. In terms of payment we paid 30% upfront and then paid the rest in installments every two weeks thereafter.
Only thing that caused unexpected costs/headache was issues with drains that they had to tap in to for an additional shower room we had installed as part of the utility as they don't really know everything until they start digging! We agreed the additional costs though and again had a detailed quote update before they proceeded. It wasn't a huge amount extra but was unexpected.
The main things aside from costs I would say were important was that you have a contact you can speak to each morning (we had a site manager) as it's so important to have regular communication with the same person so that everyone is clear on what's happening. Also have all the items you are supplying including lighting, switches, tiles etc etc etc. picked out as early as possible because of you don't have these chosen and delivered on time it causes delays which means extra cost for you and frustration for the builders!
Hope this helps and good luck with the project!