Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a homeowner. Get it right and you'll have a stress-free build and a beautiful result. Get it wrong and you could face delays, overspending, poor workmanship and months of frustration. Here are the ten things we think every homeowner should check before hiring a builder in Barnet or North London.
1. Are They Local?
A builder based in Barnet or North London will have local knowledge of planning requirements, local suppliers and council processes. Be wary of companies with a local number but offices far away.
2. Can They Show You Real Completed Projects?
Any reputable builder should be able to show you photographs of completed projects — ideally similar to yours. Ask if you can speak to a previous client.
3. Do They Have Genuine Reviews?
Check Google Reviews, Trustpilot and Checkatrade. Look for specifics: did the project come in on time and on budget? How did the builder handle problems?
4. Are They Properly Insured?
Any builder working on your home should carry public liability insurance — ideally £5 million. Ask for a copy of their insurance certificate before work begins.
5. Are They Accredited?
Look for Constructionline Gold or Silver, SSIP/PQS health and safety approval, and Gas Safe registration where relevant.
6. Do They Provide a Detailed Written Quotation?
A professional builder provides a written quotation clearly setting out scope, inclusions, exclusions, programme and payment terms. Vague single-figure estimates are a red flag.
7. Do They Have a Dedicated Project Manager?
For any significant project you need one named point of contact responsible for the whole build.
8. How Do They Communicate?
Ask how often you'll receive updates and in what format. The best builders provide weekly written updates and are proactively in touch.
9. Are They VAT Registered?
For larger projects this is generally a sign of a legitimate, established business with proper invoicing.
10. Do They Seem Like People You Can Work With?
You'll be letting these people into your home for weeks or months. Trust your instincts — a builder who listens and communicates well from day one will almost always deliver a better result.
We tick all ten boxes and have done so for over 25 years in Barnet and North London. Call 020 8441 3144 or use our Online Price Guide to get started.