Builders and Home Improvements

I have decided to have a new central heating system installed in my house and I have noticed many companies display a logo of a trade association in their advertisement. Are there any advantages in choosing a firm which is a member of a trade association?

Answer to trade associations question

I recently had the flat roof of a garage refelted and on completion of the job I signed a note that I was satisfied with the work. I wasn't able to check the work at the time but now the roof is leaking. What rights do I have to claim from the roofer?

Answer to flat roof question

The wooden doors of a conservatory I have had built at the rear of my house do not fit or lock properly. The builder used subcontractors to do different parts of the job and is saying the carpenter is responsible for the doors and not him. Is this right?

Answer to subcontractors question

I am about to have some major renovations done to my home and want to avoid as far as possible any problems with contractors. What can I do to avoid disputes?

Answer to disputes question

I have been advised that I should have a written contract to cover work carried out on my house. What should this include?

Answer to contract question

A painter and decorator agreed to paint the outside of my house but I forgot to agree a start date with him. The autumn is approaching, but he always says he is busy elsewhere. When can I give up on him and go to an alternative tradesman?

Answer to painter and decorator question

I am in the process of buying a house and the present owners have said they have guarantees for timber treatment and damp proofing carried out on the property. Will I be able to rely on these guarantees if necessary?

Answer to guarantees question

I am intending to have a new garage built on to my house and am concerned about safeguarding any money paid to a builder if he goes out of business or his work is unsatisfactory.

Answer to payment to builder question

I ordered a new bathroom from a local company, and they finished installing it yesterday. However, the quality of workmanship is very shoddy. Some tiles are chipped and coming off the wall, the bath panel has been dented, and the shower leaks. I haven't paid yet. What are my rights?

Answer to quality of workmanship question

I discovered a leaking pipe and had to call a plumber. He was here for less than an hour but the bill was for £200. I felt this was excessive - do I have to pay it?

Answer to excessive bill question

The Frequently Asked Questions were developed by the Crossing the Boundaries partnership (CtB) of Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Shropshire.

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