We’ve all seen the TV show Cowboy Builders so we’re all fully aware of what a minefield it can be when you’re choosing a builder.

Here are a few issues that crop up on a regular basis with Cowboy Builders:

Timing.

Most commonly, the builder will turn up late and leave early, or perhaps just not turn up at all! He’s probably trying to do more than one job, therefore juggling his time trying to keep everyone happy. This can have a large impact on your project and make much longer and more stressful.

OUR SOLUTION: RSJ will always provide you with a start date, and a “handover” date. We have a “Completion Date” guarantee. If we miss the handover date, you will get a free bottle of prosecco for every day we run over. We’ve not had to buy one yet though!

Mess.

At the end of your project a cowboy builder is likely to leave you with all the mess he’s created! This means you are left to hire your own skip, and do all the clearing away yourself!

OUR SOLUTION: We provide our own skips throughout the project, and keep the site tidy at all times. At the end of your project, we will ensure that no mess or rubbish is left, furthermore, we will professionally clean your whole house!

Costs.

Some builders are not happy if you ask them for a written estimate, however you really do need to know what you’re paying for! If it’s not in writing, how do you know that your builder isn’t telling you it’s an extra cost and charging you twice? You don’t!

OUR SOLUTION: We will give you a written estimate for everything that you need doing, therefore there are no hidden surprises along the way. This estimate forms part of our FIXED PRICE GUARANTEE. The only additional costs that may occur are if you change the spec of anything, or there are unforeseen items i.e woodworm, dry rot etc. If we spot these type of things along the way, we will always give you a price before proceeding with the additional work.

Poor quality materials/workmanship.

Some tradespeople turn out some shoddy work, using even shoddier materials! This will never give you a professional finish, consequently you will never be happy with it. This can lead to you having to pay out again for the same work to doing by a reliable and trustworthy builder.

OUR SOLUTION: We will always use the best quality materials, and also finish the job professionally to our highest standard. We pride ourselves on our work, and truly believe we’re only as good as our last job.

Of course, the easiest option is to avoid cowboy builders altogether! Here are a few things to look out for when you’re considering taking on a builder:

1) Being asked for payment in full upfront. Why do they need it? After paying a deposit, you should only pay for work as it’s carried out.

2) Being asked to pay cash only. Are they a legitimate business and are they VAT registered? It’s doubtful!

3) Being given an immediate start date. Why are they not busy already? Most reputable building companies are booked up well in advance. However there’s always the odd occasion when a job has been pulled and a space becomes available.

There are more tips available in our blog about choosing a builder. Get in touch here or give us a call on 01943 884899 if you need any further advice.