tradesman qualifications

[what..the?]

For my project in excess of £100k I need a roofer, builder, electrican and plumber, I am asking local tradesmen to quote so I can compare but what qualifications do I need to ask for or check for the various trades?

[overthetop]

You could start by looking at the Trustmark website

http://www.trustmark.org.uk/

[nonomaybe]

Have you thought of employing a project Manager, who will assume responsibility for all professional aspects of the job but ultimately be answerable to you. I believe they work on a percentage of the value of the work.

[The Builder]

Ooooh ......... don't mention Project Managers Nono. lol

Recommendation every time if possible Whattie. If you're a stranger to the area, ask at a local builders merchants. They know who's popular, who's experienced etc. Also, if you're on good terms with your Building Inspector, he'll know who's reliable, and who would be suited to your particular project. Bad news travels fast in this business. You should soon know who to avoid.

When you talk to someone likely, simply ask what they've done in a similar vein, preferably somewhere where you can check out the finish etc. A good tradesman will always be keen to crow about what they've done. It's human nature.

Most people are "technically" capable of doing a job ........... more important is that you feel you can establish a rapport. It sounds cheesey, but a happy job is usually a good one. That's always been my experience. Attitude is 99% of the job.

[AlBags]

I never advertise .. Rely on word of mouth/recommendation ..
and never asked about qualifications either.
Works for me . .and I am damn busy!

[dotty.]

and don;t pay upfront! If they are decent tradesmen they can get their materials for the job on account at a local builders merchants. If anyone asks for a deposit upfront for materials steer clear

[landscaper2]

Yup, agree with The builder, recommendation, view previous work and even talk to previous clients if possible. Most people are happy talk about a 'happy' project! Be wary of the brand new flash van plastered with pretty pictures and loudly sign written with an 0800 or just mobile number. Most 'good blokes' I know tend to understate themselves - which makes them harder to find, but it sounds a big project and you need to get this right. Be patient and be prepared to wait and oh yes....no money up front.

[what..the?]

"Ooooh ......... don't mention Project Managers Nono. lol " pmsl

Thanks everyone

The local roofer who everyone recommends said that he would ask for money upfront for the materials?

[AlBags]

Many have to.
They can't afford the overheads with a few jobs on the go.
I have my own rule .. £1000 materials, I will pay up to that. Any more, I ask for an interim once I have job underway.

[what..the?]

so you as the builder pay up to that or I should pay up to that? which way round?

[sherrardk]

We ask for a 30% deposit so that we don't go buying a wood burning stove that no one else will want if the job falls through. Some of them can cost thousands and are not to eveyone's taste/needs.

[what..the?]

I want to get a fit one of those sherrard can I ask for your advice nearer the time?

[AlBags]

what the .. .me?
I will pay up to around £1000 on materials .. If I envisage it exceeding that amount by much, I ask for 'progress money' once I am underway with that job. Never had a problem with it.

[sherrardk]

Yes, no problems. I can tell you general stuff but I can ask my husband specific stuff.

[what..the?]

thanks both of you very help full x

[AlBags]

Funny ... I just installed a 6Kw Multi-Fuel stove and flue, and made/fitted a register plate for someone couple of weeks ago.

[what..the?]

could I ask something now sherrard?

[Mick-Talbot]

what is a ..fit wood burning stove?

[sherrardk]

Carry on what-the.

[what..the?]

a hot one...

[what..the?]

thanks.

well this we be my first house, and its being fully renovated with new heating everything, trying to find the most cost effective to run heating system that I can fit, dont have gas where we are.currently oil. People just saying refit with new oil boiler etc. If anyone got advice of this yes please..have looked at wood pellet boilers and stoves etc but the amount of pellet use suggests you need to truck to off load into a bunker store, you get through that much and as we are up a hill from the car park area can't do this.

So as a basic thing I would like to fit a wood burning stove in the lounge with through dinner, But would like to take full use of the heat from it one option being back boiler, but would not know if this water can only be used or hot water or radiators , how much hot water it would create and how long it could be kept at temp for example could you have the fire on at night and then use the hot water in the morning?