Building Contracts for Extensions – do I need one?
Building contracts for extensions are vital. Every home extension, renovation or new build project should involve you and your builder agreeing a formal written quotation, and signing a building contract.
Most people we talk to have heard lots of building project horror stories. Rogue builders demanding thousands of pounds upfront. Incorrect or poor quality construction work. Huge extras being charged without any revised estimates. Building companies disappearing without completing the job. The list goes on and on.
But what always surprises and shocks us is that people still ask us if they need a building contract. The quick, and urgent answer is yes!
It’s exactly to prevent these horror stories that a building contract is so important! No matter how supposedly simple or low value your project is, it still makes sense to protect yourself – and your home – and ensure things get delivered the right way.
But don’t think of the building contract as a negative thing. In fact, it protect you and them. It provides both of you with a clearly defined framework from which to carry forward.
A good building contract will:
- Clarify and identify the specific roles and obligations of both you and your builder.
- Detail how the works will be carried out – subcontracting, working hours, site management, security, insurance, site safety, project programme, defects liability etc.
- Outline how and when payments will be made (including retained fees), helping both you and your contractor manage your finances.
- Detail conditions when dealing with disputes, or termination of contracts.
As you can see, building contracts really are mutually beneficial.
Contract arrangement with CLPM
Getting CLPM to organise your builder contractor appointment and construction contract will protect your financial interests. It will also give you more control of the construction phase of your project.
Having a proper contract in place will help you both schedule to keep your project on track. It will also enable you to organise your finances and prevent any major cost issues. Should there be any changes to the works mid-construction it also gives a legal framework to help ensure any price variations quoted are fair and reasonable.
If you suggest that you draw up a building contract with your chosen builder and he seems reluctant or refuses to have a building contract in place! Ask yourself why, and probably walk away!
Finding a quality builder, getting the most competitive quotations and appointing a builder is a complicated business.
If you’re planning a major building project – such as a double storey extension, renovation or new build – then it makes financial sense to get an expert to help you. Although there is a cost to choosing to use CLPM to find and appoint your build team you will protect yourself financially.
CLPM’s Quantity Surveying team are highly experienced in finding the best construction companies, carrying out a robust competitive tender process and organising the contracts for both residential and commercial building projects.
If you’re planning to carry out a major refurbishment, or to extend and remodel your home then why not get in touch? CLPM’s Quantity Surveying team can guide you through the building contracts process and save you time, stress and money.
Email us on info@cl-pm.com or call on 01923 896550 to find out more.
