Toolkit
Choosing The Right Builder
We deal with organising start dates, timescales for construction, programme of works and completion as well as interim payments to builders for works completed on site.
The building firm you choose will be spending several weeks, or even months, working on your home. You need to be confident both in their ability to do the work, and that you will have a good working relationship with them.
For many years HR Jess have developed strong working relationships with quality and good value building contractors, and we are happy to recommend contractors for projects large and small.
Tips for choosing a builder
• Ask friends and family to recommend building firms who have done work for them.
• Talk to the builders’ previous customers. Go and see the jobs they have done and ask the customers if all went well.
• Ask at least three builders to provide quotes.
• Produce a detailed written specification of the work you want done. Where possible, include detailed drawings, such as those submitted for planning and Building Regulations approval. Make enough copies to send a full set to each builder you ask to quote for the work.
• Make sure the builders’ quotes cover everything you would like done, including supply of materials, removal of rubbish and ‘making good’ after the work is finished.
• Ask for details of how the builder should be paid. This should be in instalments, as parts of the project are completed.
• Make sure the builder has the appropriate level of public liability insurance for the work to be carried out at your home
Self-Build Mortgage Certification
If you are self-building you will require insurance and certification provided either by your architect/designer or an approved provider such as the NHBC, Premier or CRL.
Our Architects Consultants Certification is fully recognised by the Council for Mortgage Lenders and is underwritten by Lloyds of London. We have vast experience in dealing with all of the lending institutions in NI and are well versed in satisfying their individual requirements. Our insurance cost is calculated based on the complexity and size of your project – not on the market value of the property.
Architects Cover
• Lasts minimum 6 or 10 years and covers all areas as detailed in architectural drawings & specifications
• Construction inspected at all stages of construction
• Interim Certificates Issued
• Completion Certification provided
• Unlimited payout if defect found
• Recognised by all Mortgage Lenders
• The insurance covers the property regardless of Building Control inspection
• No minimum claim value
• Covers all types of Buildings – not just dwellings.
• Policy meets and exceeds requirements of RIBA