London’s Interiors

Designing for Londoners since 2002

Home Building Projects – Frequently Asked Questions

Home Building Projects – Frequently Asked Questions

The project duration will have been estimated at the contract stage. It should be remembered however that any delays or changes to schedules of work could affect the project length.

I am worried my home may turn into a building site?

This is obviously a concern to all of our customers and no matter what you might expect, you can never truly prepare yourself.

You should always choose a company that is fully insured and who take pride in making sure their customers feel, as much as possible, at ease during the process.

If you have any specific concerns,  let them know and they can address them accordingly.

What are Building Regulations?

Building Regulations are what all building works have to adhere to, whether it is fire, escape and access, or trip hazards. Everything is set out within the government building regulations, which all building work must be carried out to.

What are PDRs?

Permitted Development Rights are certain criteria that apply to works that can be carried out on your home, without planning permission.

A lot of projects nowadays do not need planning permission but do ask if you are not sure.

What is a Party Wall?

The Party Wall Act of 1996 was brought in to protect walls and foundations of walls between neighbours.

Any work that you carry out to a shared wall or foundation will fall under the Party Wall Act. Most builders do not offer a party wall service but can offer advice on how to go about gaining a party wall agreement.

Do contractors guarantee their works?

As standard, most builders will offer 6 months defects liability period for all of our their projects. This period of cover takes into account faulty products sourced and fitted by the company.

Unfortunately, it would not include issues that have occurred as a result of pre-existing problems, work done by customer’s suppliers or products sourced by the customer.

Do I need to move out?

This is always a good idea if you are having large scale works carried out.

It does create efficiencies in the costs and if you are intending to move out at any stage, make sure you tell your builder ahead of time and they can schedule in site activities to tie in with this.

It can be quite demanding to have building works on your home. If moving out is not an option, then a well-timed holiday or staying with friends and family can really help give you some time away from the project.

To Stay or To Go During a Home Renovation: The Pros and Cons

How do I choose a good supplier?

Choosing a supplier for the various features of your new build can be difficult as it seems there are so many options out there.

One of the most common problems that people come across when it comes to finding the right features for your build is finding the perfect windows and door that won’t cause any additional problems with the running of the work going on in the house.

It is recommended that you use a company that has:

  • A wide range of options
  • Exactly what you are looking for
  • A number of reviews and testimonials

We would recommend that you always go for double glazing as it offers a range of benefits and try to find one that comes and assess your property and tell you your best options.

Do I need planning permission?

Within the initial Stage 1 process, you will be told whether planning will be needed or not. If planning is needed then your builder will need to enter planning permission.

Why Do I Need Planning Permission

Why isn’t anything happening?

The main thing to remember is that your builder is always working on your project, to make sure it can move forward in the most efficient way possible, on time and to budget, whilst being finished to a high standard.

While builders may not be actively working on the project at your home, it does not mean they are not working on it in other ways. If you are concerned at any point then make sure you email or ring them and they will reply as soon as possible.

Good builders care about any concerns you have, so always get in contact and don’t let a slight worry turn into a frantic panic.

I am worried about security?

Site security is extremely important to your builder as they want to keep a good reputation. That is why they have designated contact numbers for you to contact day or night if there is an issue.

Reputable builders make sure that at the end of each day the site is as secure as possible. Before they start work it would be worth telling them of any alarms or procedures they have to adhere to on a daily basis, for example: leaving the hallway light on.

Should I notify my home insurance company?

It is important that you do notify your home insurer.

Not many building firms have their own insurance for the works and liabilities, however, your home insurance is a separate matter. Not only will you have to amend the schedule, as your home will be worth more after it has been altered, but you will also need to make them aware that works are taking place.

Can I insure the works and the project?

Most builders will offer insurance backed guarantees for 2, 5 or 10 years; costs vary depending upon the size of the project.

What happens if it rains?

Your builder will be as upset about this as you, as they will want to get on with our project, however, it does affect and will always affect the way a project runs.

Work might slow down as they will be restricted by the work that we can do, especially with loft conversions and extensions.

They will try their best to make sure we do all that is possible to push the project along.

What if I need to contact my builder?

Your builder should always be contactable either by email or phone. A good company will have a fully operating office, which is open between 9 am and 5 pm daily, Monday to Friday.

They should also supply mobile phone numbers to key site operating staff so if you do need to contact them out of hours or in the event of an emergency, you can.

Your builder would ask, however, that if it is not an emergency and doesn’t need immediate attention, that you either email or wait until the office has re-opened.

More on home renovation

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