Getting the builders in.

[Old Greg]

Most of the builders I've dealt with can't even read and write. Any talk of a contract and they are out of the door. The professional builders you are talking about that will work like that will have work for the next 18 months at least.

It's a terrible industry filled with shysters and bodgers. Just get a written quote is almost impossible.

And all you need them to do is phone that number you wrote on the cubicle wall.

[SueEllen]

Would it be better to find an architect first, and ask him to find a local builder to estimate on his drawings.

Most architect will show you their work with past clients and know builders who are up to the job.

Then you have the problem of finding a decent architect..........

[SueEllen]

This is good advice...surprisingly from a, er, woman.

Only cos I'm related to a man who did just that when he wanted a loft conversion.

I know others who went down the architect route, and due to what they wanted and where they lived had to f*** around with council planning. Then one couple had disagreements with the builders over the time it was taking. There as if you have an idea of what is allowed in terms of loft extensions in your area it will save you time and hassle.

[FiveTimes]

Would it be better to find an architect first, and ask him to find a local builder to estimate on his drawings.

Most architect will show you their work with past clients and know builders who are up to the job.

We found a local architect and he did the drawings and plans with a view of using a local builder and driving the cost down.

However the specialist company used their own in house architect

[Pondlife]

Many many thanks to all for posting (Halo gets a special ) except for AtW who missed the PS in the OP.

I'm out of rep dishing privs but will be doing the rounds tomorrow.

I'll have a looky at the JCT contracts as they're only £16. A small cost for peace of mind.

Ta muchly

[conned tractor]

Only cos I'm related to a man who did just that when he wanted a loft conversion.

I know others who went down the architect route, and due to what they wanted and where they lived had to f*** around with council planning. Then one couple had disagreements with the builders over the time it was taking. There as if you have an idea of what is allowed in terms of loft extensions in your area it will save you time and hassle.

Completely agree. Refreshing to have such practical advise on here. A simple yet effective solution, hopefully mitigating a number of risks, and without involving a number of intermediate links in the chain.