How to engage a general builder - pls read

Question

Just bought a house which I expect to complete on in 8-12 weeks. Want to find and have a general builder start work on full renovations day 1 of completion while the property can remain empty. 
However, I’m unable to access the property. 
I have detailed measurements and a few videos, and the narrative here is it is literally a start again from scratch job, ie full rewire, new heating system, kitchen, reskim, etc. 

Can I reasonably engage builders with a scope of works, floor plan, and pics and get sensible ballparks to start shortlisting and awarding work with some understandable caveats? Or will they all say they need to see it first?

Thanks

Robert · Accepted Answer

I would advise you as the homeowner and your prospective builder to agree some mutual terms on a consultation basis especially on jobs like this.

If your sale falls through "and they do, it's happened to us more than once"  your builder of choice either through this platform, and others like it will be charged to get your contact details.

Furthermore they will then spend an incredible amount of time working on quotes for you after studding plans for hours, suggesting how the best way is to spend your hard earned money, gathering estimates PC sums or alike.

So if things falls through, or you as the customer takes all the advice and figures generated else where for a better quote or estimate then at the bare minimum the builder has his costs covered.

If this sounds a little negative it's not meant to be, it's called experience, we as the builders are genuinely more vulnerable than Customers.

From the customer aspect they should be stating they are happy to pay on a consultation basis before completion. That should be the only way as us the builders should consider showing interest in the work before completion!

Smaller Jobs "no problem" on free quotes, this one has risk!

I hope this helps you both.

Charlie · Answer

You can certainly have a conversation with a builder regarding spec and what your looking to do 
We would ask weather you want to take the property back to brick or would it be a light renovation

It’s easy to give ball park prices based full house ie re wire new boiler and heating etc

Dan · Answer

No a good scope of works and detailed spec should be enough to give and estimate figure

Nickita · Answer

1.Engaging Builders Without Property Access:
While builders often prefer site visits, you can engage them with a detailed scope of works, floor plan, photos, and videos.
Ballpark estimates are possible, but most builders will eventually want to inspect the property.
Document all communication and be transparent about limitations.
2.Legal Considerations:
Ensure compliance with local regulations and permits.
Consult an attorney if needed.
3.Builder Selection:
Shortlist reputable builders based on experience and responsiveness.
Some may provide preliminary estimates without a site visit.
4.Flexibility and Communication:
Be open to adjustments and maintain clear communication.
Remember, responses may vary, so find a builder who understands your situation. Good luck with your renovations!

Alan · Answer

A builder should be able to give ballpark prices from plans and as you say with caveats for unforeseen problems.

Zoltan · Answer

Feel free to pop over some pictures and a few details I'm happy to help you.

Phelam · Answer

Every company has there own way of pricing work but I have built houses for my self and I worked on a £100 per square foot call me or email

Mark · Answer

Hi 
A clear scope of works / with pictures if possible should be sufficient to be able to provide a detailed quote

Victor · Answer

Any reputable builder would not quote without seeing the job first. You will end with extra costs added and added

Afaq · Answer

Ideally, builder need to see first the project surrounds logistically. have a meeting to discuss complete scope of work what you're after. There are so many factors involve to discuss before any builder give you a quote

How to engage a general builder - pls read

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