Reputable Builders: How to Choose a Trustworthy Contractor in the UK
When you start a garden room, conservatory or any home extension, the biggest decision is who’s actually doing the work. A good builder will keep to budget, finish on time and leave you with a space you love. A bad one can waste months and thousands of pounds. So, how do you separate the reliable firms from the ones that overpromise and underdeliver? Below are the practical steps you can take right now.
Why Reputation Matters
A solid reputation isn’t just a marketing buzzword – it shows the builder has delivered quality work repeatedly. Reputable builders tend to have proper insurance, valid licences and a portfolio you can inspect. They’re also more likely to stick to a clear contract and respect your timeline. In short, reputation is the fastest shortcut to confidence.
Steps to Spot a Reliable Builder
1. Verify credentials. Check that the company is registered with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and holds a valid CSCS card for its site workers. A builder who can’t produce these documents should raise a red flag.
2. Look at online reviews. Sites like Checkatrade, Trustpilot and Google My Business give you insight into real customer experiences. Pay attention to patterns – multiple complaints about missed deadlines or hidden costs suggest a deeper issue.
3. Ask for a portfolio. A reputable contractor will gladly show you photos of recent projects similar to yours. If they’re hesitant or only offer vague descriptions, move on.
4. Request references. Talk directly to past clients. Ask how the builder handled changes, whether the final cost matched the quote, and how clean the site was each night.
5. Get multiple written quotes. Compare at least three firms. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best, but an unusually low price can indicate cutting corners. Look for detailed breakdowns – labour, materials, permits, contingency.
6. Check insurance and warranties. A solid builder will have public liability insurance and provide a warranty on workmanship (usually 2‑5 years). This protects you if problems arise after they leave.
7. Meet the team. The people who will be on site should be introduced before work starts. Seeing their professionalism and communication style early on can save headaches later.
8. Use local trade bodies. Organizations like the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) screen members for standards and offer dispute resolution. Choosing a member adds an extra layer of trust.
9. Insist on a clear contract. The agreement should list scope, timeline, payment schedule, materials, and how changes are handled. Anything vague is a risk.
10. Trust your gut. If a builder feels evasive, pressures you to sign quickly, or avoids answering specific questions, walk away. A good contractor knows you’re making an important investment and will respect your due diligence.
By following these steps, you’ll narrow the field to a handful of reputable builders who match your project’s size and style. Remember, the cheapest option can cost more in the long run, while a builder with a proven track record often saves you time, stress, and money.
Ready to start your conservatory or extension? Use the checklist above, gather a few quotes, and choose the builder who ticks every box. Your future home will thank you.
