Why Contractor Selection Matters More Than Price
The most common reason home improvement projects go wrong isn't the design. It isn't planning. It isn't even the budget. It's the wrong contractor. A contractor who underquotes to win work, lacks the experience to manage the project, or runs multiple jobs simultaneously without adequate oversight can turn a well-designed project into a drawn-out, stressful, expensive experience.
Look for Structure, Not Just Cheap Prices
The temptation is to get three quotes and go with the lowest. Resist it. A low quote often means one of three things: the contractor hasn't included everything, they've priced to win and intend to add costs later, or they're buying the work because they need cash flow.
Look for a contractor who provides a clear, itemised scope of works; can explain what is included and excluded; has a transparent approach to variations; and gives a realistic programme with a defined start date.
Check Their Track Record
Ask for references and actually follow up on them. Ask recent clients: Did the project complete on time? Were there variations and how were they handled? How was communication throughout? Would you use them again?
Also look at their online reviews on Checkatrade, Google, or Trustpilot. A pattern of complaints about communication, delays, or billing disputes is a warning sign regardless of how many positive reviews surround them.
Verify Their Credentials
Insurance. The contractor should carry public liability insurance (minimum £2m for most domestic projects) and employers' liability insurance. Ask for the certificates and check the expiry date.
Registered with a trade body. The Federation of Master Builders (FMB), TrustMark, Checkatrade, and the National Federation of Builders all carry out vetting. Membership provides accountability and a complaints mechanism.
Companies House. If the contractor operates through a limited company, check their registration and filing history. Very recent incorporation or unfiled accounts can indicate a business in difficulty.
Understand the Scope of Works
A well-structured scope of works makes three quotes genuinely comparable. Common items excluded from poorly structured quotes include: structural engineers' fees; Building Control fees; external drainage connections; waste removal; party wall surveyor costs; and second-fix materials.
Agree a Contract in Writing
A written contract should include: a clear description of the works; a fixed price or defined basis for pricing; a payment schedule tied to milestones rather than dates; a programme with defined start and expected completion; a process for handling variations; and an agreed retention (typically 2.5–5%) held until the defects period is complete.
Warning Signs to Watch For
No written contract offered; large deposit required before work starts; pressure to commit before you've had time to consider; reluctance to provide references or credentials; no specific programme offered; quote provided without visiting the site; very significant undercut of other quotes.
At RCB Design & Build, we operate as a principal contractor — taking full responsibility for coordinating, sequencing, and delivering the project. We're registered with the FMB, TrustMark, Checkatrade, and TrustATrader.
07359 872594 | contact@rcbgroup.co.uk | www.rcbgroup.co.uk