Builders & decorators
When you have work done on your home, it can be more than a little disruptive especially if something goes wrong. To lessen the stress, read our guides to find out how to resolve disputes and get problems fixed as quickly as possible.
Answers to your problems
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I'm about to start building work, what should I do?
If a building job isn't done properly, there could be serious consequences. Follow the tips below to make sure you're not caught out by a rogue builder or decorator.
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How to make a Section 75 claim for bad building work
When work on your home goes wrong, you have extra protection if you paid with a credit card.
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I’m thinking of hiring an architect, what do I need to know?
If you're planning to hire someone to do architectural work for you, your rights will differ depending on whether they are a fully qualified architect or not.
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My building work hasn’t been completed to a quality standard
If the building work you contracted is bad quality, your rights are protected by the Consumer Rights Act.
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My new-build home has problems, what are my rights?
Read our guide to understand your right to redress if you discover problems with your new-build home.
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I want to claim on my insurance, what should I do?
We all need insurance at some point. If you have to make a claim on your insurance policy, use the advice outlined in our Which? guide.
Step by step guides
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How to avoid building work disputes
Don't lose out to a rogue builder or decorator - Which? Legal Service is here to help with some handy tips.
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How to complain if you're unhappy with building work
If you're unhappy with the standard of the building work you've received, follow the Which? step-by-step guide to remedy the situation with the trader.
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How to complain about bad architectural work
If you’ve encountered bad architectural work and want to complain, your rights will depend on whether you hired a qualified architect or not.
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How to complain if the trader misses an appointment to start a job
If a trader you've employed to do work for you fails to turn up, follow our Which? guide to find out what to do
Letters
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Letter rejecting a builder's invoice that's more than the original quote
This letter template can be used to tell your builder that you won't be paying any more than the cost of their original quote.
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Letter to complain about builders in England, Wales or Northern Ireland
If you want to complain about poor workmanship or substandard goods or materials, use the Which? template letter
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Letter to complain about builders in Scotland
If you're unhappy about the standard of building work you have received and you're based in Scotland, use this template letter
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Letter to complain about work carried out by an architect
If you're unhappy with work that's been carried out by an architect, you can use this letter template to complain.
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Letter to use if your contractor doesn't respond to your complaint
If a contractor has not responded to your initial letter to remedy poor workmanship, use this template letter as a follow up
Regulations
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Consumer Rights Act 2015
The Consumer Rights Act gives you rights when you buy goods and services or digital products. Understand your rights with our informative guide.