"Loft Conversion and Extension Project" posted by Mrs. Bell

Introduction photo Mrs. Bell’s family needed more living space. Moving house wasn’t an option at the time so they decided to extend their existing property. This ambitious project involved adding a loft extension to give another bedroom with en suite bathroom together with a single storey extension at the back of her house to expand the existing kitchen/dining area.View job postingx

Choosing a builder:

First picture A friend recommended MyBuilder to me. We liked the way that customers left feedback on the site. I felt that added more security to the process of choosing a builder.

I’ve had bad experiences in the past with builders so my guard was up at first. I knew I wanted a builder who was honest with their pricing and trustworthy. Above all I wanted somebody with whom I could build a rapport and feel comfortable with. The only way I could determine this was by meeting candidates face to face. We did background checks on the builders we shortlisted and asked for references and to see actual jobs and speak to previous customers in person.

Second picture When I first met Dave I thought he looked a bit young to do such a large project. When we received his quote, though, it was very detailed with everything accounted for down to the last penny. He even brought in a surveyor to work out if a crane would fit down our road. I thought that demonstrated a great attitude to service.

Working with our builder:

In terms of costs, we had a contingency but really wanted to stick to our budget. Dave always kept us informed about costs and priced any new work upfront. Because of this we managed to keep costs under control and the job came out more or less on budget.

Dave gave me lots of advice – not only in terms of how I could save money but also about any structural and design points. Dave and I are quite similar in many ways – we clicked very quickly and found that we shared a similar taste in design. Despite having plans drawn up, we were very flexible about the brief and so it was refreshing to have Dave on hand to collaborate with.

The finished job:

Third picture The finished job exceeded our expectations in every way. The quality of work and the speed at which they completed the work was amazing. I have no reservations in saying that they are some of the most knowledgeable builders I have met. They’re very polite, well organised and communicative.

Having had a bad experience in the past, Dave and his team really changed my opinion about builders. I wish I could recommend them to everyone and I really wish them well for the future. That’s why I left such good feedback on MyBuilder.

Final Thoughts:

Fourth picture If I did need anything else doing around the house though I’d certainly have Dave back again. If Dave wasn’t available I’d definitely use MyBuilder again. I felt in general that the builders I met through the site were very keen and serious about their work. I’ve also recommended the site to other people I know.

Mrs. Bell's tips:: lThoroughly research any builder you are thinking of hiring. Look at their previous jobs and speak to their customers in person.; lDon’t be too judgmental about every builder you meet. Its easy to tar all builders with the same brush which isn’t fair. There are some great builders out there.

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