8 Questions to Ask Your Local Builder
Here’s a smart starting point for homeowners who’ve never hired a builder before, questions that screen for experience, trust, transparency, and clear communication. These aren’t silly questions. They’re practical, sensible, and we’ve heard them all before, here’s the most popular.
If you have questions about your project that aren’t listed here, get in touch with the Buildworks team over on the contact page.
When can you start and how long will it take?
This is one of the first things people ask, and rightly so. We always give a realistic start date based on current workload, material availability, and weather factors. Sometimes it’s not the date you’re hoping for, but it will be the one we actually stick to. Larger projects have a projected start date many months in advance. We are already taking bookings for 2026.
How long will I wait for a quote?
We’ve gone deep into this in our pricing article, but here’s the simple version. A full quote takes time because we’re not just pricing bricks and plasterboard. We’re building your home on paper before we even lift a spade. Waiting a week or more isn’t a delay — it’s the difference between accuracy and guesswork. We take care because we know you’re investing in something big.
We’ve explained more about prices at the bottom of this page.
How much deposit do you require?
This one can make people nervous, and we understand why. We ask for a small deposit to secure your place in the schedule and cover initial planning costs — never more than is fair or necessary. If someone asks you for 50% up front, that’s your cue to ask some serious questions. A good builder wants you to feel safe about where your money’s going.
Are you fully insured and qualified?
Absolutely, and you should always ask this, read about us. A responsible builder will be happy to show proof of public liability insurance, and we’ll talk you through any qualifications or certifications too. It’s not just about ticking boxes — it’s about knowing you’re covered if something goes wrong. That peace of mind matters just as much to us as it does to you.
Can you provide references or a portfolio?
Yes, and you’re welcome to speak with previous clients or even visit a project if one’s ongoing nearby. We’re proud of our work and the relationships we’ve built. No glossy brochure needed — just real people, real houses, and honest feedback. It’s the best way to see how we operate before making any commitments.
What is included in the quote?
We go over everything in detail — materials, labour, site prep, waste removal, and any extras you’ve discussed. We’ll also tell you what’s not included, like garden landscaping or fittings you want to source yourself. We’d rather have that honest conversation upfront so there are no surprises later. A clear scope means a smooth build.
How will you communicate updates?
You’ll get regular check-ins from us from daily to weekly, to explain what’s coming up, what’s changed, and what to expect next. You won’t be left guessing or wondering why something’s taking longer. We believe communication is just as important as craftsmanship.
Who will be working on-site?
It’s your home, and you’ve got every right to know who’s coming and going. We’ll introduce the team so you know who’s who, and we’ll always have a main point of contact on-site or by phone. Whether it’s me, my project lead, or our joiner — you’ll know our names and our roles, and we’ll always show up when we say we will.
Why Do Building Quotes Take So Long? The Honest Truth
We completely understand the frustration. You’ve got a vision for your barn conversion or extension, you’re ready to crack on, and then… weeks of waiting for a proper quote. It’s enough to drive anyone round the bend. But here’s the thing – there’s method to our apparent madness, and it’s all about getting your budget spot-on from the start.
Unlike slapping together a quote for a new kitchen worktop, barn conversions and major extensions are complex beasts. Every single project is unique. That Victorian farmhouse you’re extending? It might have limestone foundations that need special treatment. The 18th-century barn you’re converting? Could have oak beams that require structural assessment before we even think about pricing materials.
We’re not just counting bricks and timber – we’re assessing soil conditions, checking for asbestos, measuring up for bespoke joinery, calculating thermal upgrades to meet current building regulations, and working out access routes for delivery lorries. All of this takes time, but it means your quote is accurate, not a finger-in-the-air estimate that doubles halfway through the project.
The truth is, rushing a quote often leads to nasty surprises later. We’ve seen too many homeowners burned by builders who quote low to win the job, then hit them with endless extras once work begins. That’s not how we operate. When we give you a price, we stand by it.
Our Commitment to Transparent Pricing
We know budget is everything when you’re planning a major build. That’s why we’ve streamlined our quotation process without cutting corners. We’ll give you a realistic timeframe upfront – typically 10-14 working days for a comprehensive barn conversion quote, or 7-10 days for straightforward extensions. If we need longer due to planning complexities or structural surveys, we’ll tell you straight away.
During this time, we’re not just sat in the office with a calculator. We’re liaising with structural engineers, checking material availability with our trusted suppliers, and ensuring every aspect of building control compliance is factored in. We’re also building in realistic contingencies for those inevitable “while we’re at it” moments that crop up on every build.
Here’s a run-down of the most used building materials used for construction and renovation, and why getting quantities right matters for your budget: