What to Ask Your Builder Before You Sign a Contract (Essential Questions)

Hiring a builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during a home renovation, loft conversion, or extension. The right questions can save you thousands of pounds, months of delays, and a lot of stress.

Before you sign any building contract, use this practical checklist to make sure you’re fully protected and confident in your choice.

1. Questions About Experience & Credentials

1. How many similar projects have you completed recently?

2. Can you show examples of loft conversions, extensions, or renovations like mine?

3. Are you fully insured (public liability & employer’s insurance)?

4. Are you registered with any trade bodies or schemes?

5. Can you provide recent client references?

👉 Tip: Always verify insurance and past work — don’t rely on promises alone.

2. Questions About Timeline & Scheduling

6. When can you realistically start the project?

7. How long will the build take from start to completion?

8. What factors could delay the timeline?

9. Will you be working on other projects at the same time?

10. How often will progress updates be provided?

Delays are common in construction, but clear timelines and communication reduce risk significantly.

3. Questions About Materials & Quality

11. What materials are included in the quote?

12. Are brand names and specifications clearly defined?

13. Can materials be upgraded or downgraded to suit my budget?

14. Who is responsible for sourcing materials?

15. What happens if materials are delayed or discontinued?

This helps avoid disputes where “assumed” materials differ from what’s actually installed.

4. Questions About Subcontractors & Site Management

16. Will you use subcontractors, and if so, for which trades?

17. Who will manage the site day-to-day?

18. Will the same team be on site throughout the project?

19. Are subcontractors fully insured and qualified?

Knowing who is actually doing the work is just as important as knowing who you sign the contract with.

5. Questions About Costs, Payments & Variations

20. Is this a fixed price or an estimate?

21. What does the quote exclude?

22. How are payment milestones structured?

23. Is VAT included in the price?

24. How are change orders or variations handled?

💡 Key SEO keyword tip: Many disputes arise from extra costs not clearly defined upfront.

6. Questions About Change Orders & Extra Costs

25. How will changes be priced and approved?

26. Will variation costs be confirmed in writing before work starts?

27. What happens if unexpected structural issues arise?

This is critical for renovations and loft conversions, where hidden issues are common.

7. Questions About Guarantees, Warranties & Defects

28. What workmanship guarantee do you provide?

29. Are materials covered by manufacturer warranties?

30. What is your process for snagging and defects after completion?

A professional builder will stand behind their work — hesitation here is a red flag.

8. Questions About Contracts & Dispute Resolution

31. What type of building contract will we use?

32. What happens if there is a dispute?

33. Are termination clauses clearly defined?

Never proceed without a written contract — verbal agreements won’t protect you.

Why These Questions Matter

Asking these questions helps you:

• Compare builders accurately

• Avoid hidden costs and delays

• Protect your investment

• Reduce stress during construction

If you’re still at the planning stage, read our guide on
👉 [Planning Permission Guide for Home Owners: What Homeowners Need to Know]
or explore
👉 [How Much Does a Loft Conversion Cost n London?]

Final Advice Before You Sign

If a builder avoids questions, rushes you, or refuses to put things in writing — walk away. A reliable builder will welcome informed clients.

Planning a renovation, loft conversion, or home extension?
Get expert guidance before committing.

👉 Book a free consultation with Consult A Builder today
👉 Request a project feasibility review

Making the right decision now can save you time, money, and stress later.