How to Avoid Cowboy Builders

A recent study by Santander Insurance UK found that nearly one in five UK homeowners have suffered at the hands of cowboy builders to the tune of around £1,500 for a botch job. That's almost 20%!

According to Miguel Sard, CEO of Santander Insurance UK “Anyone can call themselves a builder, but the potential damage that could be caused by rogue tradesmen is staggering”.

So let’s look at the bigger picture

By far the biggest dilemma professional/ accidental landlords face when looking for a local builder is the trade-off between quality of workmanship, reliability and the price! One in ten victims of cowboy builders simply "went for the cheapest builder" rather than checking the credentials of the builders they employ.

Top Tips & Warnings to Avoid Cowboy Builders

Make sure your builder is approved by a recognised trade body like the Federation of Master Builders
Make sure you ask your builder for references of a similar job scope to your project and check them out!
Check local court records to find out if your builder has been taken to court in the past by unhappy customers?
When you've appointed a builder agree scope of works in writing at the outset so there are no surprises at the end

posted by The Editor

Your Comments

Approved Builders said...: Landlords looking to avoid cowboy workmanship should check a builders credentials first!

Don't just go on cheapest price, make sure your choose an approved local builder by a recognised trade body like the Federation of Master Builders.

As FMB approved local tradesman, CBS Builders are able to display the TrustMark logo, so Landlords can choose us with confidence, and should any issues occur with any job completed by CBS this can be quickly resolved by contacting FMB with any problems and disputes. We have never had this occur though!; 6 April 2011 16:55
Barry Hart for Square and Level Practise said...: Most building projects need architectual drawings and reputable builders should know a thing or two about good design as well as understand the technical aspects of building architecture.

But if you're not sure if you need an architect, don't leave it to chance. Contact your local planning office for advice!; 6 April 2011 17:09
Barry Hart for Square and Level Practise said...: When home owners think about building work the 1st person they think of is a usually a builder. But almost every planing officer wants to see a good set of drawings before granting planning permission; 6 April 2011 19:08
Channel 5 - Cowboy Builders said...: "If you're thinking about doing some work to your home it's worth doing some research before hiring a builder or tradesmen" [sic]; 7 April 2011 15:00
TraderScams.co.uk said...: "Deal Direct, not with Subcontractors. Never hand over money to a tradesman before the work has been carried out..."; 7 April 2011 15:05
Barry Hart for Square and Level Practise said...: Be involved at the beginning. When starting any new project, be sure to discuss any communication issues/ bad experiences with your tradesman upfront. This will give them a chance to give you feedback to consider before going ahead.; 11 April 2011 18:11
Barry Hart for Square and Level Practise said...: Good Practise and tips for planning and building

Whilst you don't need planning permission for internal alterations, you may need a building reg. certificate. If you don't have this, you could have trouble when you come to sell the property.; 26 April 2011 10:50
Anonymous said...: Rip-off companies are on the increase, so I decided to put a website that allows users to see who is ripping people off in there area. Users can create reviews when they think they have been scammed, the website is www.tradebust.com if you have a story to tell then let others know, bust the rouge traders!; 24 July 2011 14:19