Finding a reliable tradesperson

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When choosing the right tradesperson, there are some key issues you need to think about. In this article, we’ll take you through them step by step.

We'll cover the following topics in this pricing guide:

How to find a trustworthy and reliable Tradesperson nearby: Your Essential Guide

Hiring a reliable tradesperson isn't just a convenience; it's a necessity. Whether it's fixing a leaky tap or transforming your kitchen, the difference between choosing a qualified professional and falling prey to an unqualified one can mean the difference between a job well done and a costly disaster. Let's ensure your home improvement dreams don't turn into renovation nightmares. Simply follow these steps to find a local, qualified tradesperson.

Step 1: Before you hire, understand your needs

Before you dive into the sea of potential tradespeople, it's crucial to understand exactly what you're looking for. Tradespeople specialise in various fields—plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and more. Each has a unique skill set tailored to specific tasks. It's important to define the scope of your project, from a simple repair to a full-scale renovation, this will help you identify the right professional for the job.

Take your time and ask yourself these questions:

  • What specific work needs to be completed? This helps determine the type of tradesperson required.
  • How much am I willing to spend? Setting a budget helps avoid overspending.
  • Do I need a specialist for this project? Some projects may require specific skills or experience.
  • When does the project need to be finished? Ensuring the tradesperson can meet your timeline is crucial.
  • How involved do I want to be in the project? Decide if you need a tradesperson who works independently or one who will work closely with you.
  • Will I need similar work in the future? Consider whether ongoing maintenance will be necessary.
  • What should I ask the tradesperson? Prepare questions to assess their fit for your project.
  • Are there any legal or safety considerations? Make sure the tradesperson can comply with relevant regulations.

Keep in mind: Many jobs in and around your home can be done through DIY. Take some time to research your job online and figure out whether it is possible for you to carry out the task. This way you can save money and might learn something new.

Financial considerations: How do you budget for a tradesperson?

Hiring a professional tradesperson to get a job done in and around your house is a great way to make sure that the tasks are executed correctly. Always rely on the expertise of a tradesperson and their skills to make sure that the outcome of the job is reliable, conforming and safe.

That being said, hiring a tradesperson does not come for free. Depending on the project and the trade, the prices for jobs in and around your home will vary greatly. So, make sure that you budget carefully when thinking about hiring a tradesperson. Be realistic about the spend and remember to calculate a buffer in your budget.

Here are some typical rates that tradespeople in your area may charge for their work:

TradeHourly RatesDaily Rates
Plumbers£40 - £60N/A
Electricians£30 - £50£400 (on average)
Carpenters£8 - £20£130 - £170
Painters and Decorators£8 - £15N/A
Plasterers£10 - £15N/A
Bricklayers£8 - £15£120 - £170
Tilers£12 - £20£140 - £200
Builders£9 - £35£150 - £280
Gardeners£10 - £30£90 - £160
Window Cleaners£8 - £15N/A

Step 2: Starting your search for a local tradesperson

Now that you have established you need to hire a tradesperson for your job, you have several options to start your search for a reliable tradesperson in your area.

Typically, there are 3 ways to find a tradesperson:

1. Make use of your network or reach out to tradespeople you already know

If this is the case, you only need to reach out to your local contacts and find out whether they are qualified to carry out your job. Extend your network and reach by asking around in your personal environment. Maybe your family or your close friends know some reliable tradespeople near you.

2. Use a free online platform to find qualified and certified tradespeople near you

Nowadays, you'll find plenty of online platforms offering a wide range of certified tradespeople in your area. MyBuilder is one platform that puts the control back in your hands. When you post a job, you'll instantly connect with qualified professionals nearby. Best of all, services like MyBuilder are typically free to use for users like you.

3. Use search engines to find tradespeople online

A quick Google search is a great way to kickstart your search for nearby tradespeople. Just type in the trade you need, and Google will suggest popular or local professionals in your area. However, remember that these suggested tradespeople may not be certified or approved by a provider.

Step 3: Choosing the right tradesperson nearby by evaluating qualifications

Let’s say you found some local tradespeople that you find interesting. Now it’s up to you to evaluate which tradespeople or companies are qualified to carry out your job. But don’t worry, evaluating the qualifications and suitability of a tradesperson can be easy. Simply follow this checklist:

  1. Check Credentials and Licences: Are they licensed to work in your area? Verify their credentials by asking for copies or checking online with relevant licensing bodies.

  2. Review Past Work Samples: Can they show examples of previous projects similar to yours? Seeing their past work can give you insight into their skill level and the quality of their finishes.

  3. Ask for References: Do they have a list of past clients you can contact? Speaking directly with previous clients can provide valuable feedback about their reliability and the quality of their work.

  4. Assess Their Professionalism: How do they present themselves and their business? Evaluate their punctuality, communication style, and how they handle inquiries. Professional demeanour often translates into professional workmanship.

  5. Inquire About Insurance and Warranties: Are they fully insured and do they offer warranties on their work? Ensuring they have liability insurance and offer guarantees can protect you from future problems.

  6. Discuss Their Availability: Can they start and complete the project within your preferred time frame? Make sure their schedule aligns with yours to avoid delays.

  7. Understand Their Quote: Is their quote detailed and clear? A well-detailed quote shows professionalism and helps prevent disputes over unforeseen charges.

  8. Look for Industry Affiliations: Are they a member of any trade associations or accreditation schemes? Such affiliations often mean a tradesperson is committed to ongoing professional development and adheres to industry standards.

MyBuilder simplifies the evaluation of local tradespeople

At MyBuilder you can take advantage of a huge selection of tradespeople in your area and trust that they are certified and qualified. We only forward your personal job to specialised tradespeople and companies that were vetted for their qualifications.

Furthermore, we will help you find a trustworthy and reliable tradesperson by:

  • Providing detailed profile descriptions with qualifications and certifications
  • Offering real and honest customer reviews
  • Providing extensive portfolios with work examples

Step 4: Making contact

Once you’ve narrowed down your list, reach out for quotes. Always ask for at least three quotes from different tradespeople to ensure you're getting a fair price. Be specific about what your project entails and make sure all quotes include the same specifications for a proper comparison. If you are okay with your quote, move into the next stage of the hiring process and set an initial meeting.

Pay attention to the quote: Financial considerations when reviewing an offer

Understanding the cost breakdown is essential. Tradespeople may charge per hour or per project. Discuss all payment terms upfront, and be wary of those who require full payment before the work is complete. Always know that with MyBuilder you have a service provider on your side, who can guide you through the process and any financial issues.

Here are some key questions that help you with the review of your quotes:

  • What tasks and materials are itemised in the quote?
  • Does the total cost include labour, materials, VAT, and any additional fees?
  • What are the payment terms, including schedules for deposits and final payments?
  • What are the specified start and completion dates for the project?
  • Are warranties or guarantees provided for materials and workmanship?
  • Does the quote confirm that the tradesperson has the necessary licences and insurance?

Meeting the tradesperson: What you have to look out for

When meeting with potential hires, ask detailed questions about their process, timeline, costs, and past projects similar to yours. This is also your opportunity to assess their professionalism and communication skills — look out for these key factors:

  • Professionalism: How does the tradesperson present themselves? Are they punctual, polite, and well-prepared for the meeting? Their professionalism often reflects how they handle their work.
  • Communication: Do they listen to your concerns and communicate clearly? Effective communication is crucial to ensuring that your project requirements are understood and met.
  • Experience and Expertise: Do they have experience with projects similar to yours? Ask about their skills and experience to determine if they're well-suited for the task.
  • Credentials and Qualifications: Are they licensed and insured? Verify their qualifications and check if they have the necessary certifications for your specific project.
  • References and Reviews: Do they have a list of references or a portfolio of past work? Previous client testimonials and examples of their work can provide insight into their reliability and quality of work.
  • Quotation Clarity: Do they provide a detailed and transparent quote? A clear breakdown of costs shows that they are thorough and honest about pricing.
  • Attitude and Approach: Are they enthusiastic about your project? Their attitude can indicate how dedicated they will be to delivering quality work.
  • Problem Solving Skills: How do they propose to handle potential challenges? Assess their ability to provide solutions to possible issues that might arise during the project.
  • Ask for references: How did they carry out previous jobs and what was the result? Assess work examples and ask questions about their way of working.

Step 5: Finalising the hire and monitoring the job

Once you have decided for the best tradesperson nearby, you may task them with the coordination and completion of your project. However, keep in mind that this is not the end of the journey. If you are responsible for hiring the tradesperson, it is also your responsibility to ensure that the job is finished on time and done correctly.

That is why it is incredibly important for you to monitor not only the progress, but also the completion of your project. Take the time and review individual steps and make time with the tradesperson to go through the completed job once it is finished.

Effective communication is key to keeping your project on track. Regular check-ins and updates can help manage any changes and ensure the work is progressing as planned. If issues arise, addressing them promptly with the tradesperson is crucial to avoid escalation.

Keep in mind: Before hiring a tradesperson, ensure everything is agreed upon, from the scope of work to the completion timeline, putting all of this information in writing will help keep to the schedule. This formal agreement protects both parties and clarifies expectations.

Find a reliable and qualified tradesperson nearby: 10 tips to find the right expert

Finding a reliable and qualified tradesperson you can trust doesn’t have to be difficult. Use these 10 tricks to find the right skilled worker nearby:

  • Use Trusted Platforms: Utilise platforms like MyBuilder to find vetted tradespeople. This will ensure each member meets stringent standards, giving you peace of mind.
  • Get Multiple Quotes: Always obtain at least three quotes to compare and ensure competitive pricing. Ensure the quotes include all costs, such as VAT.
  • Check Qualifications: Confirm the tradesperson has the necessary qualifications and licences to perform your required job legally and competently.
  • Verify Insurance and Warranties: Make sure they have up-to-date insurance and check if they offer warranties on their work which could cover you for up to 12 months.
  • Read Reviews and Testimonials: Explore reviews and testimonials on platforms like Checkatrade to assess reputation and work quality. These are real customer experiences and offer valuable insights.
  • Request References: Ask for and contact references from past customers to discuss the tradesperson's reliability and quality of work.
  • Assess Local Experience: Consider a tradesperson with local experience who understands regional regulations and has access to local networks.
  • Evaluate Professionalism and Communication: Note their punctuality, courtesy, and clarity in communication during initial interactions.
  • Discuss Timeline and Availability: Confirm they can start and complete the work within your preferred time frame.
  • Ensure a Detailed Contract: Have a clear, written agreement that outlines the scope of work, cost breakdown, timelines, and expectations to avoid any future misunderstandings.

Before you hire: Ask yourself these questions to identify the right tradesperson

Hiring the right tradesperson is critical for ensuring your project's success. Before committing, it's essential to conduct a thorough vetting process to gauge their reliability, expertise, and suitability for your specific needs. Here are key questions and considerations to guide you through this process:

  • What specific work do I need completed?
  • What is my budget for this project?
  • Is this project time-sensitive?
  • Do I require a specialist for this project?
  • How involved do I want to be in the project?
  • Will I need similar work done in the future?
  • What qualifications should the tradesperson have?
  • Do they need to have local experience?
  • How important are references and reviews?
  • What insurance and guarantees do they offer?
  • What is the total cost, and does it include all charges?
  • How will the tradesperson handle unexpected challenges or delays?
  • Is there a satisfaction guarantee?

Discuss your job with tradespeople so they can accurately estimate the cost.