Avoid Cowboys and Monkeys

If you are planning a build but you don't know any reputable builder or contractors you could easily end up employing a cowboy firm. 

The wrong builder can be a very costly mistake you need to avoid. 

To find the builder for you start by asking friends and family if they would recommend anyone, who did they use and would they use them again? Look for similar builds in your area and don't be afraid to know on doors and ask for recommendations and gain references. 

If this is not successful there are many local directories, rated builder and national certified builder schemes to lead you in the right direction. These can be used but ensure you ask for and chase up references and if possible go and see completed builds and ask questions of the customer. 
How was their house keeping? 
Did they turn up on time? 
Where they helpful when problems arose?
Did they include all asked of them in their quotes or did they try to add extras as the build progressed?
Would they use them gain or recommend them?

These are just a few questions to ask.

Do your research and ensure you get at least three quotes, these can then be compared and contrasted and importantly the cheapest may not be the one to go with, there may be may have some small print, if you are lucky, stating what is not included or specifications may have been altered to reduce their costs. 

If in doubt ask questions and ensure you are getting what you are paying for. ​