Get advice if you're thinking of having work done at home

If you're thinking of having work done to your home, such as a loft conversion or extension, read the following advice notes, because things can go wrong.

You should check if your contractor is a member of or registered with:

• approved trader sites
• Gas Safe
• NICEIC
• CHAS
• FMB
• Buy With Confidence - Trading Standards Approved Scheme 

Do not entertain anyone who knocks at your door.

Consider carrying out an open-source check online. Look up reviews and ask for references from previous clients. Do not forget to check their public liability insurance.

Ask whether all the trades are employees or subcontractors.

We recommend you get at least 3 quotes.

You must get ‘something’ in writing, like quotes or estimates. Ideally, this should be a standard contract for all the building work. Without one, neither you nor your contractor will know what you agreed to. 

If you agree on the contract in your own home, the contract must include reference to ‘cancellation rights’. 

This is a legal requirement under The Consumer Contracts (Information, Cancellation and Additional Charges) Regulations 2013.

This allows you to withdraw from the contract up to 14 days after signing. If the contract does not mention any form of a cancellation notice, it may be unenforceable. 

If you agree to the contract by distance (email, telephone or post), you must still be given cancellation rights. However, this does not apply if you sign or agree to the contract on the contractor’s premises.

Download the attached document for a very basic example of a contract. You can also search for other examples of a contract on the internet, unless, of course, your contractor provides one.

Make sure you read and fully understand the entire document. For example, you should not be charged for ‘snagging’, so if it's itemised on your contract, do not agree to it and remove it.

Any ‘add-ons’ or any change to the original contract must be clearly agreed in writing and signed by you, the client, and the contractor. 

Without proof, it will be difficult to discuss any issues you may encounter later, so keep a copy.

Make sure a realistic time scale is agreed upon.

Make sure the contract clearly sets out stage payments and never pay the full contracted price up front. 

If the contract is up to £30k maximum, you could consider using your credit card. Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, the credit card company is jointly liable. So if the contractor goes bust or fails to complete the contract, you can also pursue a full claim against the credit card company.

Unless otherwise agreed in writing with your architect or contractor, you, the client, are responsible for any planning/building regulations. Many clients assume their contractor is dealing with this, so it's important to check.