Getting a builder in... tips for payment etc

[Freshair1]

Hi there. Getting a builder sorted, comes recommended by people we know. Has been round etc and we're looking to start a project. How do we do the payment bit as in I'm pretty sure you don't pay it all upfront? Never done a refurb before so seeking advice.

Part of the quoting process should be agreeing payment terms. On a large job, it should be "milestone" payments, i.e. first payment of £x when the groundworks is done, second payment of £y when it's watertight, third payment of £z once it's plastered and first fix, final payment after completion. You need to agree upfront and get it in writing.

Didn't you discuss payment in your meeting with builder? Wouldn't that have been the most straightforward way to find out seen as its an agreement/contract between you and them? Is your question really about how and when we think your builder should be paid?

Unhelpful and unkind.

Brilliant, thanks. Will discuss when he comes to quote and discuss.

How big is the project? I've usually hired for smallish projects and I either pay a percentage upfront 10-30% and the rest on completion. Or I pay upfront what it costs for them to obtain the materials, and the rest on completion of job. Good luck.

Why was I unkind? You said the builder had already been around. Surely one of the things you discussed is cost and payment?

Usually it's in the agreement/contract with the builder?

We've never paid anything up front. One time we arranged to pay it in four even chunks, with the final one when it was finished. The most recent big project the builder invoiced fortnightly for the work/materials used in that fortnight and we then had a week to pay - so the first payment wasn't until three weeks after work started.

Thanks all. Much appreciated. Yes we discussed payment at initial meeting months ago but getting proper quote broken down now surveyor has completed calculations etc. Remodelling the upstairs, moving walls, doors and fitting bathroom.

Yes as previous people have said you need clear milestones for payments.
It is sometimes seen as an awkward conversation but OP please ask and confirm all those awkward questions or queries you have, any good building firm will be more than happy to walk you through their payment milestones and why they are that at that point.
Any builder who wants paying up front, in my opinion is not a great set up.