The Building Industry is probably one of the industries where contractor vetting is of paramount importance.

From the One Man jobbing builder to the vast international conglomerates knowing your contractor, his track record and financial stability, will give you the confidence you need to proceed with your project.

We have all heard of the “Cowboy Builder” our services will help you avoid this man whether large or small, UK based or international.

Bradley James offers this complete contractor vetting service both to the private and public sector.

In addition to Builders and Building Contractors, Bradley James can and will vet, as required, all professions and services associated with the building industry, such as Architects, Quantity Surveyors, General surveyors, Electricians etcetera.

Our reports are Taylor made to fit your requirements.

The reports will enable you to pinpoint reputable stable contractors with a proven track record and will enable us to provide reassurance on existing contractors.

 

Monday 28th April 2008.
Government to crack down on cowboy builders

Government to crack down on cowboy builders The government has proposed a crackdown on cowboy builders in the UK construction industry, under the new Future Build Control (FBC) scheme.

FBC – a new initiative the government claims will assist building industry, local authorities and homeowners - recommends a more efficient risk-based inspection process for local authorities that focuses on the most dangerous failings of building contractors.

While it is hoped good builders, who comply with new regulations, will be relieved of the burden of unnecessary inspections, and cowboy builders will face tougher scrutiny.


Government to crack down on cowboy builders

A more systematic approach to the review of building regulations will also give the industry more certainty and allow better forward planning, argue the government.

"Homeowners have the right to expect their homes to be built and renovated to minimum standards set out in building regulations," said housing minister, Caroline Flint.

"I want to make life more difficult for the cowboy builders that are out there while letting the high-quality majority of the industry get on with the job. This should reduce the cost and burden of the process on both the industry and local authorities."

The government is launching a consultation on the plans, proposing:

  • Freeing up more time and resources for local authorities to focus on areas of highest risk, by removing statutory notification stages.
  • Introducing a periodic review of building regulations every three years, allowing the building industry to forward plan, rather than the current continual changes.
  • Protecting homeowners from builders who intend to do major projects without proper planning, by restricting the use of building notices.
  • Increasing powers for local authorities to tackle illegal or botched construction, including extending the existing time limits for enforcement to two years.
  • The potential use of fixed penalty notices and stop notices.
  • Improving the link between planning and building control through a seamless planning and building control service and more e-enabled internet services.

The proposals have already been welcomed by sections of the construction industry.

"These proposals will make a real difference to the building control system, shaping it to meet the challenges that the profession faces today," said David McCullogh, chair of the Building Control Alliance (BCA).

"We are determined to deliver a modernised and strengthened service and will continue to work closely with government to achieve this."

These sentiments were echoed by the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).

"We fully support the government's intention to move towards a more planned approach to building regulation by clearly signposting changes and making them at the same time once every three years," said FMB director of external affairs Brian Berry.

"This has been a real concern to our members - this shake-up will save our members time and money and ultimately will make it easier for them to meet the required building standards."

Bradley James Group

14th June 2007
NEWS / INFORMATION

Construction output rose by two per cent in the first quarter of 2007 despite a slowdown in infrastructure and public non-housing work.

New work also fared well in the 12 months to April 2007, increasing by five per cent.
Public housing sector new work rose by 24 per cent, while new private housing work registered a two per cent increase.

Cowboy builders are legendary. We have all heard stories of extensions left half built, and the three-day job that took six months to complete.

The problem is so big that the Office of Fair Trading gets more than 100,000 complaints every year about building work. In fact, so many of us are afraid of poor workmanship or being ripped off, that a shocking £4bn worth of necessary repairs are left undone.

So if you need a job done that is beyond your own DIY capabilities and you know you have to employ a builder, how can you be sure that the job is done properly and meets your expectations?

For larger jobs, such as loft conversions and extensions, consider taking on a chartered surveyor or architect. He or she will not only deal with design, planning permission and the building regulations but will help you find the right contractor and oversee the work to ensure it is completed satisfactorily.

However, if the job is so small that you don't feel you need professional advice, here are some simple guidelines to help you find a competent builder who will do a good job at a competitive price.

Do shop around for the right builder and get at least two, preferably three quotes. If possible go on personal recommendation - but always check the quality of past work before making a decision. Alternatively, contact reputable local firms and ask them to supply you with references. Always follow these up. Ask if you can go and take a look at their work. Don't forget to ask:

  • was the work completed on time?
  • were there any unexpected costs?
  • were the builders punctual and tidy?

All these things add up to a job well done.

Do ask questions. Find out the following:

  • Does the builder have the right experience?
  • Will he agree to staged payments for work satisfactorily completed, with the final payment paid after the work is properly finished?
  • Will he itemise the invoice so you can see exactly what you are paying for?
  • Will he accept a penalty clause for failure to complete the work on time?
  • Will he agree to independent arbitration should there be dispute?

How to spot a cowboy

Cowboy builders are very much in the minority, but they are out there, so how can you protect yourself. Treat them with suspicion if they:

  • EVADE giving you references or details of previous jobs
  • OFFER you a 'cheap' deal for cash-in-hand.
  • SUGGEST you can avoid paying VAT for cash
  • CONFUSE you with jargon and complicated explanations
  • INSIST that a written contract is not necessary
  • SAY they can start tomorrow (a good builder is usually busy)
  • CAN'T give you costings because 'things may change'
  • LAUGH when you suggest showing them plans
  • GIVE you a surprisingly low quote
  • CAN only be reached by mobile and don't have an address on their card
  • ASSURE you the details are their problem and you don't need to worry
  • KNOCK the opposition

One sure-fire way to avoid cowboys is to use the FMB's Find A Builder service, or to look for the FMB logo - the sign of building quality - on builders' vans, stationery or advertising.

Whatever you do, follow our simple guidelines for choosing and working with a builder, click here.

Whatever you do, follow our simple guidelines for choosing and working with a builder:

  • Ask for references and talk to previous customers. A good builder will provide you with credentials and references, so try to visit previous jobs similar to your own.
  • If the builder is a member of a trade association, check the membership criteria - and make sure they really are a member, rogue builders have been known to falsely claim membership.
  • Get estimates from two or three different builders. Be clear about what you want done and ask for a written specification and quotation.
  • Avoid adding to the job or changing your mind halfway through - it will usually cost more and cause delays. Confirm any changes you do make in writing - the FMB has a variation form for this purpose.
  • Use a contract - the FMB has a Plain English contract for small building work.
  • Agree any staged and final payments before work starts.
  • Avoid dealing in cash.
  • If any problems arise whilst work is in progress, or you are unhappy about anything, talk to your builder right away.

 

Bradley James Group

 
©2007 Bradley James Limited are a member of BJL Group