Get the right people to give your home a new look

Jun 19 2009

MORE folk than ever are delaying plans to move house and considering giving their homes a facelift instead.

The prospect of breathing new life into your home can be incentive enough to splash out on a lick of paint or a few new tiles.

But if you don’t know your Allen key from your Phillips screwdriver then maybe you should turn to the experts for help.

The Federation of Master Builders offers invaluable advice on making sure you get the right person for the job.

According to them you should always deal with an established firm and ask for references and names of previous clients.

Check that they are members of reputable trade associations and if VAT is being charged, make sure there is a VAT number on all correspondence.

Don’t be afraid to look at some of the jobs; your preferred company has carried out, if it’s possible.

A written estimate and specification is a must.

And don’t even consider handing over full payment for the job until it is complete. Agree staged or final payments in advance of work starting.

Too many people end up disappointed when the work isn’t quite what they’ve envisaged.

Be clear about what your want and avoid changing your mind half way through a job if you can.

Not only does it cause confusion, it also costs money and delays.

But don’t be afraid to talk your tradesman if you’re not happy. It’s better to try and resolve problems quickly and not let them fester.

If your builder does not sort things out after you have spoken to him, put your complaint in writing.

If there are still problems, get further advice.

Depending on the problem, consult a solicitor, the Citizens Advice Bureau, trading standards, building control or trade association.