Should I challenge builder?

[WhatWouldOliviaPopeDo]

We're currently getting quotes from builders for a big refurb and one of them really impressed us, to the point that we were poised to offer them the job. However, because I'm concerned paranoid about being ripped off and pissing thousands up the wall, I've done some background checks snooping online and it looks like this builder has lied about being a member of the FMB. There's no record of him or his business on their site. What's more, I checked Companies House and he's only been director of the company under its current name since November, whereas a previous, similarly named company was dissolved in 2010. Alarm bells!

I should add, to avoid drip feeding, that we found him on MyBuilder, whereas the others we've approached are word-of-mouth locals who we're STILL waiting to send us a quote. The thing is, I really liked him - he had no ego, offered up tons of solutions and did a really detailed, professional quote. I also spoke to a previous client who gave him a glowing review - although I've checked this person out since and can't find record of him anywhere online, no social media, no Electoral Register mention .

Should I ask the builder for an explanation about the FMB at least before we sack him off completely?

You'd be foolish to use this bloke.

You've already established that he has lied, his client reference was fake and has a shady business history.

Oh gosh OP that does sound more and more dodgy!

The search function on FMB isn't great - we're members and I find it hard to find us myself! It's not a bullet-proof way of ensuring a hassle-free build, but they do check insurance, visit recent work and a couple of other things - basic checks but at least it's something. I'd also suggest asking to meet their old clients - not just a testimonial or even a site visit , but to actually meet the client. That said, rely on your gut feeling - there are a lot of good building firms out there and you're about to hand over a huge sum of money and care of your most valuable asset. He may be looking to sub the work out hence his focus on efficiency/sales now (not always a bad thing but not what you're looking for).

Thanks for all the replies, they've been enormously helpful. I have emailed the builder to ask to see a copy of his insurance and have mentioned that I couldn't find him on the FMB in the light of what SarahSea1 just posted. No intention of using him, I just want to see what he says.

Back to the drawing board!

This might help, too. www.fmb.org.uk/about-the-fmb/standards-and-practice/false-claims-of-membership/ It's a list of companies falsely using the FMB logo.

Thanks SarahSea1, I did see that list. The builder isn't on it, so that's something. Will see what he has to say about it.

One piece of advice I've never forgotten is that if a builder can start straight away you want to ask yourself the reason why.

That's very good advice Stella!

So, I did email the builder in the end, politely asking to see a copy of his insurance and asking if he was registered on the FMB website under a different postcode than the one on his quote because I couldn't find him. I just wanted to see what he'd say and, surprise surprise, the silence has been deafening.

Don't use him OP. Of course you liked him-he's a conman. That's what they do best.

You've hit the nail on the head, Eggs - I thought he was great because he wasn't arrogant or pushy like other builders we've had round and now I'm annoyed with myself for not seeing through it! I thought I was a good judge of character! Still, I redeemed myself by not ignoring the gut feeling that I should double-check his accreditation because he wasn't a personal recommendation.

Got someone else coming round later who's done loads of work locally and am lining up another for next week. Have really learned my lesson now!