Using the right Harrogate builders is essential

So how to choose the right Harrogate builders for the project you have in mind? No matter the scale of the work or investment, it’s always a big decision and like all big decisions, it involves an element of risk. And yet, by following a few simple, common sense, steps, the risk can be minimised and the work will be performed on time and on budget. And, of course, the result will be of the highest quality.

Probably the best way of choosing a builder is by recommendation or reference. Moreover, the best recommendation will come from another person who has had building work done by them.

Clearly a friend or family member – someone you implicitly trust – will have an opinion you value the most, and social media is another good way. However, if you see work done on a house you particularly like, and it looks like the sort of thing you want yourself, then don’t be shy walking up the path and knocking on the door.

Another good source of recommendations, meanwhile, are from other tradesmen who might have worked with a builder in the past. And if you then approach a builder, talk to their previous clients. Of course, the clients you’ll be in touch with will, more than likely, think that the builder in question did a good job, yet there’s still insight to be had. They will know what it’s like to work with them, and it could be that one experience might be the difference between working with one builder and another.

Aim if you can to use a builder who specialises in the type of work you want to be done. If they’re interested in that type of work, they’ll have a real enthusiasm for it, and so will be better able to solve a certain set of problems should they arise.

They’ll also be able to make the right decisions. Here at Arora Construction, for example, extensions and renovations are our things. But whether to extend or renovate? Sometimes, a renovation is a better solution than an extension and vice versa: far too often we see homes that have been altered for the sake of it when a good home refurbishment would have been the best option. A refurbishment can also be a cost-effective way of adding value to your house, whilst keeping the original integrity intact.

The best builders will have a blend of the sharpest skills and the most experience. They will have the ability to transform a home, making it more functional and beautiful as well. They will be able to find the right solutions for complex design issues and identify the most appropriate construction methods. A creative imagination plays its part too.

The best builders will be adaptable, pragmatic, unique (in that they understand that no two projects are the same), comprehensive (they will be able to manage the process through all stages from foundations to finishes) realistic (they will have an appreciation of design and budget constraints) and reliable. They will have an attention to detail and the ability to consult (with the client and/or the architect) and listen to what they say.

The best builders will also be the busiest – an excuse, if ever there was one, to think ahead and book well in advance!

And finally: when you find the right builder, negotiate a contract in advance that stipulates price, quality and time. Get advice beforehand from a solicitor; the web is also a good resource to view building contracts.

Always avoid any builder that wants payment up front; however, always pay your builder promptly if you’re happy with the work. If not then you do have the right to withhold payment, giving them a chance to bring the work up to the required standard.

We hope this advice helps. For more information about our house extension service please contact us either by phone or simply complete the contact form and let us know what type of project you have in mind.