Extension quotes received - how to choose?

[AddictedtoCrunchies]

Never done this before and don't know what logic to apply when deciding.

1. One man band, older and more experienced. One page a4 sheet through door with basic breakdown (covers everything). Was a personal recommendation. Outsourcing plumbing, electrics and plastering. Windows supplied by mutual friend.
2. Local business. Very detailed quote emailed through. Broken down to each stage. Found on local Facebook page. Trades outsourced as above.

4k difference BUT I asked 2. to quote for a slightly bigger extension so need to give 1. the same chance.

Both very personable chaps.

I was drawn to 2. because of the efficiency however I like that 1. has done lots of work for friend (window supplier friend).

Both quotes are to build the shell, I'd have to pay for kitchen supply and install on top.

1. 4.5m x 2.1m = £15.5k
2. 4.5m x 3m = £19.6k

What are your pointers for choosing between them?

I would go for the ereonal recommendation every time

Budget is 25k but could go to 30k depending on kitchen choice.

Are there any reviews of no 2 on FB or do you know of any work he has done for anyone?

Yes his Facebook page has loads on there for previous jobs. He seems very good. I'm really torn.

I would also be greatly swayed by a personal recommendation, but I would always protect myself by checking...

Are they both Limited companies and if so is there a "believable" history on companies house?

Do the directors have a history of folding building companies?

Can they both provide indemnity insurance, and if so check it before proceeding?

VAT registered, and if so check the number?

Payable via BACS, rather than cash?
(It's quite common for builders to talk and quote from company "A", but actually do the work through "another" company or directly, hence safer to pay by BACS then you know the name of the company that your paying and who is liable.)

Are they a member of the Federation of Master Builders ? (or similar)
Reviews? (have salt standing by)

Are you paying for the "Outsourcing" directly, or via the builder? As this may have an impact on building control, insurance and your liability.

I would also look on the council planning site for confirmation of any of the properties they claim to have created. Also have a competent persons scheme)

If you know any other trades, it might be worth asking an open question "do you know of any builders locally" before mentioning their names.

At the end of the day, it's usually your gut feeling that's important, but a bit of research might help make a better decision.

Personal recommendation and go and look at the work.

Who do you feel most able to speak with about things that you feel are being done wrong? I always find that the hardest part. Also do either one seem better with 'problem solving' when things don't quite fit as you'd hoped?
I'd lean towards personal recommendation, but it would depend on the person recommending.

Have they proper insurance in place? Ask to see the policy.

That's great and lots of things to think about. Thank you all

It depends on how many people are involved in the process.
Our builder—who did our extension and kitchen renovation—always works with the same two people: an electrician and a plumber.
We did get a much cheaper quote from someone else, but he said he'd "bring in people" as needed. That approach would have likely caused delays.

I've never met anyone who can do plastering, electrical work, plumbing, and everything else themselves—and honestly, I wouldn’t trust that either. So my first question would be: who are they working with?

Where in the county are you? Just asking because we’re after a similar extension and prices are nearly double! I’m jealous

South West, m4 corridor.