Employing contractors Finding a main contractor
Finding reputable and reliable contractors is one of the key concerns when you are planning any home improvements.
Contractors deal with subcontractors for you
Contractors are people who typically manage the whole project from start to finish, including making sure the right people and materials are there at the right time. They include architects, big builders, planning consultants, surveyors and project managers.
You do tend to incur a premium for using a main contractor but it can be more cost-effective than trying to juggle a variety of different subcontractors, such as bricklayers and plasterers, yourself.
Whether you choose a main contractor or employ a range of subcontractors depends on
- how much time you have available
- your project management skills
- your experience of home improvement projects
If you are working full time and haven’t any experience of major works such as extensions or loft conversions before, then it may well be better to leave it to the experts.
Obtaining quotes
Most professionals will give you a ‘no obligation’ quote before you employ them, so ensure you discuss the financial aspect of the job. It is every bit as important as the actual work your contractors will do for you. Always ensure you get this in writing and if the prices start to escalate, ensure these are written down, too.
| Contractor costs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Contractor | Hourly rate | Potential cost two storey extension |
| Architect | £40 to £200 or percentage of the cost of the project, usually 4–5% | £5,000 |
| Designer’s ‘off the shelf' plans | £50 to £100 | N/A |
| Planning consultant | £50 or percentage of the cost of the project, usually 6% | £3,000 |
| Surveyor | £75+ | £200 to £2,000 |
| Project manager | £350 per day | £3,500 |
| Builder | £100 to £300 per day | 50% to 65% of overall fee |
