How to Find a Trustworthy Builder in the UK

Look for membership of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) or a similar scheme. Membership usually involves vetting and a code of practice.

For larger projects, ask for references from recent clients with similar work, and visit a finished project if you can.

Structural work, such as an extension or removing a wall, usually needs building control approval. Ask who will apply, and confirm you will receive a completion certificate.

Agree staged payments tied to progress, rather than paying a large amount upfront. This reduces your risk if a dispute arises partway through.

Planning permission and building regulations approval are separate. A project can need one, both, or neither, so ask which applies to your plans.

Work on a shared wall, or digging near a neighbour's foundations, usually needs a party wall notice. This is normally served two months before work on the wall itself.

For most domestic projects, the builder takes on legal duties for managing health and safety on site. Ask how they will manage it.

• They ask for a large deposit before any materials are ordered.
• There is no written contract or schedule of work.
• They suggest starting before building control has been notified.
• They are vague about who is responsible for planning or party wall issues.

Building work is one of the largest investments many homeowners make. On Propvio, a review only appears once a homeowner has logged the job and the builder has confirmed it.

Look for confirmed projects of a similar scale to yours, such as a full extension rather than only small repairs.

Ask for a written quote covering materials, labour and a staged payment schedule. Anything not yet fixed, such as unknown ground conditions, should be shown as a separate allowance.

See What to Ask a Tradesperson Before Work Starts for questions that apply to any job.