Extension

[Tia9911]

Hi everyone,

Great forum.

I’m based in the SE London area and looking to get a single storey kitchen extension.

Would anyone recommend any reliable builders?

I work for a construction company, mainly SW London and here's what I'd suggest:
Ask your neighbours or anyone who's had work recently.
Don't be afraid to approach current builds and ask to speak to the foreman and then see if you can speak to the client directly - most people are happy to share good builders
Look on Federation of Master Builders - it's not bullet proof but it's a start
Get loads of quotes and ask to meet the client and see former jobs - not just photos. If they can introduce you to clients, it means they still have a good relationship with them.
Make sure you're job isn't subbed out to another company or if it is then apply the above rules (a lot of the large London firms sub out which is fine if you get a good crew). If they do sub out, triple check how much support you'll get from the appointing company.
Check payment schedules, timings and what's included in quote - including specification of materials. Is there a retention for snagging? Six month retention for issues? Guarantees?
There's a sort of 'rule' that a good builder won't have slots for ages - I'd slightly dispute that as we have 60+ staff who we shift around (groundworks, demo, finishers etc) so can start jobs quickly (and I know we are 'good' builders). Most importantly, go with your instinct as it's a stressful business and you need a good working r/ship - any doubts in the beginning, do listen to them. HTH.

Oh, and Houzz features quite of lot of jobs in SE London. Might be worth a look.