Would it be very cheeky to approach the owners of planning permission applicants (on council website) to get builder recommendations?

[Erebus]

Obviously the information is 'out there' as in readily available on the Council website, but of course the applicants didn't put it there, the council did.

Would you have the nerve to door-knock someone who'd recently had done what you're planning and ask about their builder?

We're having the devil's own job coming up with a builder who'll actually turn up to quote! We need to get stuck in as the PP is expiring fairly soon (newish purchase with PP already granted).

I think asking someone is sensible. Make sure they are happy with the work their builder did though :)

I'd probably write a letter, enclosing a SAE/other contact details though. I am a wimp.

I know if someone knocked on my door, I'd be only to happy to share any information, as what goes around etc. But folks can be strange......

You've got nothing to lose - give it a go!

Someone once knocked on my door to ask who had done my railings. I was more than happy to help.

Guess so, but will I look like a JW as they open their door to a stranger with that missionary glint in their eye?

Were were chuffed to bits when someone knocked on our door to say they loved the work we had done on our house and to ask what roof tiles we had used (Hardrow Duets in Twilight since you asked ).

I wouldn't mind a bit - I'm forever recommending our builder to others.

I've had people knock on my door and was more than happy to help. I really can't imagine anyone being overly bothered by it. But if you are unsure SoupDragon's suggestion is a good one.

I have toured people round my garage conversion plus whilst it was being done a few people clearly came for a nosey and asked me questions about my builder.

Knock on the door, or pop a note through.

I normally hate people knocking at the door (have a sign up discouraging cold callers!) but I honestly would not mind somebody asking about something like this. Because most people who have had building work done know only too well how hard it is to find a reliable builder!