Choosing a builder?

[teabagpleb]

Finally we have planning approval to replace the back of our house, which was a dodgy extension now falling apart. We have quotes from two building firms who can start in the next couple weeks (and from two more who don't have availability).

What should I look for from them regarding contracts, insurance, registration with anyone, etc?

And anything else useful to know - I'm a bit paranoid after the company who did our loft, who had done great work down the road, vanished - turned out all the logos on their paperwork didn't mean they were actually registered with any of them. So I had new baby and no roof for months...

Many thanks for any tips. It's going to be a tough few months but won't get any better and I'd prefer no kitchen to the freezing old one for another winter!

We got quotes from 4 builders.

The first quote seemed really high, second seemed reasonable but the builder didn't leave a good impression. Third quote similar to second but I really liked the builder. We seemed to click. Fourth quote was very late in coming in and was the most expensive.

We went with the third builder but we had to wait for him. In my experience good builders are busy.

All 4 had been recommended to us by the architect or by friends. We went to see their work and spoke to previous clients before asking them to quote.

Our builder had a contract and payment schedule drawn up by a lawyer which we both signed. All paper work has company name, vat reg details etc. He also supplied us with his home address.

I guess if a builder is 'dodgy' there is not a lot you can do. You must get references and follow them up. But also go with your gut instinct.

Our build will last for 4 months (3 down, 1 to go) and I am project managing. At the moment I see the builder more than I see my husband or children. He had to be someone I could talk to and get on with. I am entrusting him with my life savings and asking him to build my dream home. It's a big ask but I trust him to do a good job and so far I have not been disappointed.

The fact he looks like a young Javier Bardem has nothing to do with it.

Check the builder is registered with the organisations they claim to be.

Rose - will do after last time! Choice is between the large firm or the medium size local firm. Can only find good reviews online, but that's not saying much.

Medium size company has asked a lot more questions and clearly wants the work more and I have more faith in the structural engineer, but I want more in writing before choosing them. Otherwise large firm will get the work - both are coming round later today to plan work in more detail. We need the shell built, then DP and BIL and I will do the plumbing, fitting kitchen and bathroom, etc.