Anne
Dear Anne, Absolutely, insurance is a crucial aspect to address in your contract to safeguard both parties involved. Here’s a breakdown: Contractor’s Insurance: How to Stipulate in the Contract: Now, about the homeowner insurance, while it’s not a direct part of the construction contract, it’s advisable to inform your insurance provider about the upcoming construction […]
Neil
Hello Neil, Great to hear that you’ve received the contract – a significant step in the process. Now, onto the important task of scrutinising it. The use of the JCT Minor Works contract is a positive aspect, as it’s a widely recognized and fair standard form. However, it’s always wise to be vigilant. While each […]
James
Hello James, Absolutely, without a doubt, it’s advisable to request a written programme from your builder. Having a detailed project programme in writing serves as a valuable reference point for both parties. It outlines the planned sequence of tasks, milestones, and estimated timelines for each phase of the project. This written programme provides transparency and […]
Richard
Hello Richard, Good question. Typically, the responsibility for preparing the project programme lies with the builder. They are in the best position to create what’s known as a line-by-line programme, detailing the sequence of tasks, timelines, and dependencies. Also, they know the specific resources that they will allocate to your project and when these will […]
Mr and Mrs Smith
Dear Mr and Mrs Smith, I’m delighted to hear that you found the advice helpful, and I’m more than happy to guide you on preparing a scope of work for your loft conversion. It’s a crucial step in ensuring clarity and precision when soliciting quotes from potential builders. Break Down the Project: Outline the project […]
Chris
Dear Chris, Firstly, congratulations on getting planning permission for your dreamy new extension! It’s such an exciting step in the journey to your dream home. Now, onto the builder selection, a crucial phase indeed. Considering you’ve received several quotes within your budget, that’s a promising start. When it comes to making the choice, it’s not […]
Sophia
Oh, Sophia, I understand the conundrum you find yourself in, and it’s a bit of a sticky one, isn’t it? While it would have been ideal to have a contract from the get-go, let’s not dwell on what’s water under the bridge. Now, despite the absence of a formal contract, all is not lost. Communication […]
Clara
Dear Clara, Ah, the classic materials-for-labour dance. While it might seem like a straightforward arrangement, my advice remains unwavering – sign a contract. Always. Now, I get the appeal of dividing up the responsibilities, you with the materials, they with the labour. It sounds like a reasonable agreement, doesn’t it? However, my advice is to […]
Katy and Steve
Dear Katy and Steve, It depends. I am sorry, but it not a straight forward answer. You mentioned that it will be only for ‘few weeks’, but how many weeks exactly? Have your contractor provided a programme? Depending on the duration of the works, you may be able to evaluate whether this is something that […]
John and Cristina
Dear John and Cristina, Absolutely, without a shadow of a doubt – sign a contract. Always. Now, I understand the temptation to go for a more informal arrangement, especially when you’re on friendly terms with your builder, and cups of tea have been shared. The camaraderie might make you think, “Oh, we’re all good here, […]
