If you own a home in and around Sevenoaks and are considering a loft conversion, there are plenty of options when it comes to construction companies. It’s important to take your time when choosing your builder, however. This is undoubtedly a big investment and one that you want to get right first time.
Here we offer 5 simple tips for finding the right loft conversion expert, ensuring you get the build you always dreamed of rather than a complete disaster.
1. Do Your Research
Most of us have a little DIY experience but we’re not expert builders. You’ve probably never undertaken a project as big as this before.
That means you need to start doing some careful research. You ideally want to understand what is involved in the construction, what sort of planning permission, if any, you will need and the sort of cost that you can expect.
The good news is that there is plenty of information online nowadays. Our advice is to take the time to do your homework thoroughly. Become an expert and understand what lies ahead. It will mean you are less likely to fall foul of a bad loft conversion company, you’ll ask all the right questions and you’ll also be able to keep a handle on costs.
2. Get Several Quotes
Don’t just settle on the first person you come across, whether they’ve been recommended or not. Shop around and get several quotes.
The first thing to understand is that the cheapest quote is not necessarily the best. If you’ve done your research properly, you’ll have an idea when someone is just trying to get your business and hasn’t thought the job through properly. Chances are anyway that, if the quote is extra low, the final price is going to be a lot higher than you think.
Look for expertise and knowledge. A professional outfit will talk through everything with you and be happy to answer all your questions. Beware of anyone offering a one time offer as long as you take them on in a short space of time. A reputable company will give you time to think.
3. Do Your Due Diligence: AKA Check the References and Accreditations
It’s amazing the number of people who don’t do the necessary checks for a job of this size. A reputable loft conversion company should be able to give you references of previous customers. Don’t just take them as read, go out and visit these people. Question them and take a look at their completed loft conversion.
Secondly, many building companies profess to be part of an association or have this or that accreditation. Again, don’t take their word for it. Check with the governing or accrediting body to make sure they are registered members.
Also, check what liability insurance the building company has in place. This is vital if something should go wrong with your loft conversion.
4. Get to Know Your Contractor
If someone is going to be tearing your loft apart and building a fantastic conversion, you want to get to know them. Ask to meet the rest of the team who are going to help build your new room and make sure you feel comfortable with them.
Some builders will outsource their work to third parties. This is not unusual but it’s important to ask what safeguards are in place to ensure quality and continuity during the build.
5. Have a Cooling Off Period
Finally, never rush into this kind of undertaking without giving yourself a cooling-off period. Give yourself at least a couple of weeks, even if you are sure who you want to choose for your loft conversion.