How to choose the right builder for your home extension

Planning and designing your home extension is always an exciting time – whether you’re making space for your dream home office, as stunning kitchen-diner or sunlit garden room. But the vision you have for the space can quickly turn into a nightmare if you’ve not selected the right builder for the job. The builder you choose to work with is crucial, as this will determine the quality, durability and safety of your extension. Extending your property is a significant investment – so how do you make sure you’re choosing a reputable and competent company to work with?

Define your project requirements

Before you begin your search for a builder, it’s important to have a clear vision of what you’d like from your home extension and what your requirements are likely to be. Having a clear plan in mind will make it much easier for them to understand your needs and expectations for the space. Some key aspects to consider at this stage include:

What specific goals do you have for the extension?

Think about how the extension will meet your current needs and add value to your home. Do you need an extra bedroom, a new home office or a wider living room? Being specific about the size, layout and key features of your planned development will make it clearer and easier for a builder to bring your ideas to life.

Have you thought about the size, design and features you’d like to include?

This is also a good time to think about the potential design of the room. Where budget allows, we advise clients to engage an architect or designer to help solidify the plans professionally, especially if your requirements are complex or unique. Whether you’re working with a modern design or more traditional architecture, they’ll be able to help you align your plans with your lifestyle and the existing structure of your property.

Have you considered a realistic budget?

Budgeting is key – and being realistic when planning the potential cost of your project is incredibly important. It’s advisable to look into this as soon as possible, considering the costs of extra features and including a contingency plan for any unforeseen issues which acts as a buffer if things don’t go to plan. Builders will ask for this info early on in the process, so having this ironed out and ready will help filter out anyone who isn’t suitable from a financial perspective.

Have you checked if planning permission is needed?

Once you’ve established the key features of your build and a realistic budget, planning permission should be at the top of your list. This can take a while to secure and is best managed professionally on your behalf, so it’s advisable to start to process as early as possible once you have clear plans for your development. You can read more about planning permission and what’s involved in the process here with our comprehensive guide for homeowners.

Research and assess potential builders

Research is important to ensure that you have the best possible team on board for your project, but it can be overwhelming to know where to begin the search for a good builder. Start by asking friends, family or neighbours who have had extensions or home modifications completed recently, as their experience will give you a better idea of what you can expect, and they may even be able to recommend someone. If you’re struggling to get word of mouth recommendations, online directories like Checkatrade or Trustpilot are also reputable sites for verified reviews of builders.

You should always verify a builder's credentials and experience independently wherever possible – checking their necessary licenses, insurance and memberships in professional trade organisations. Look for completed projects which are similar to your design and scope as this should give you more confidence in their ability to meet your requirements.

Notice the attention to detail – are the finishes of a high quality? Does the design look seamless? These all point to the level of craftsmanship you can expect. Ask prospective builders for references and take the time to call past clients to find out if they stuck to timelines and budget and were clear communicators. There’s a lot to consider, but this will help give you the reassurance you need in making your decision when the time comes.

Compare quotes and assess professionalism

Once you’ve compiled a list of potential builders, it’s time to collate some quotes. Keep in mind that it’s not always about going for the cheapest option – instead focus on value for money. You should request detailed, itemised quotes that include a breakdown of the material and labour costs and clear timelines. If the quote looks vague it’s usually a red flag. One might be cheaper, but you need to see if they’re cutting any corners on materials or their approach to finish on-budget. Take time to compare the scope and materials of a few quotes to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money. Good builders are transparent, responsive and professional when talking to you, and they’ll be happy and open to discussing different options and suggesting workarounds. If they take days to respond or are difficult to get hold of before your project begins, this is a sign they might not be reliable when work starts.

Finalise your decision and review the contract terms

Once you’ve found a builder you like you should feel confident in your choice. Trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is. You should feel assured and comfortable that the company you have chosen can deliver your project in line with the objectives and budget discussed. Before work starts, review the contract as closely as possible taking time to read every detail and check there are clauses for unforeseen circumstances like delays or unforeseen costs. It should clearly outline timelines, financials and the payment schedule, and may even include guidelines on communication and what to expect during the process. We always recommend having a solicitor review the contract for an extra layer of security and peace of mind.

Trust your instincts and ensure a smooth project

Extensions add space and enhance your daily living but they also affect the value of your home, so it’s worth investing in high-quality work. Choosing the right builder guarantees your extension is built to last and meets the highest standards of quality and safety. By taking the time to properly plan and consider various aspects of your build before work begins, you can be sure your construction team have the skills and experience required to bring your new home to life and ensure a stress- and hassle-free project.

To learn more about our build and design expertise or for tailored advice on your extension plans, contact a member of our specialist team today.

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