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You Hire the Cheapest Builder for your home extension....what's the worst that can happen?

Updated: Aug 23, 2023

🏠 Typically, the builder who presents the most work for the lowest cost has likely compromised quality throughout the construction process. The issues become evident sooner rather than later, often stemming from faulty foundations, moisture seepage, and subpar materials.


😬These problems manifest as noticeable cracks, deteriorating walls, and ill-fitting windows and doors...if you're lucky to get that far. In the cases we've been hearing about lately, the builder is taking 80% of your funds and not returning to complete the work meaning the finished job is costing more than double what you were originally quoted.


😞Not a big deal...you can just take the builder to court? This is not an easy process and can end up costing you thousands. Please read all of the nightmare stories from innocent people up and down the country before you instruct someone to work in your house. It is also very difficult to find a builder who will take on a project which someone else has started - how can they be sure that the existing structure is up to Building Regs? You are left broke with a half completed build and this could go on for months or years.


🚧If you have opted for the cheapest quote, then you are going to find that both materials and subcontractors are going to be from the 'bargain bucket'. A highly skilled builder inherently produces superior projects, and their bids will obviously be higher.


💰The lowest priced builder will be focused on cost-saving measures, leading them to opt for the lowest-priced subcontractors and suppliers due to their inability to discern between good and bad work. Their primary goal is achieving the lowest bid so that you instruct them to start work.


💔Once work has started, the cheap builder will continue to ask for more money as the quote they've started with was never enough to get the job done. If you don't pay, they refuse to do the work and go off site. You have very little support at this stage and it's very difficult to recoup money you've already paid. You end up living with a half built shell, no working kitchen and rubble all around your property until you can save up to get it done properly.


🛠️It's crucial to recognize that you're purchasing THE PROCESS as well as the finished extension. Did you know that there is no UK Building Ombudsman that you can go to for help and you will have to figure it out for yourself?


Did you hear about Adam Priestley from Horsforth? He ripped off 58 (known) people before he was stopped....none of these people thought it would happen to them. He was jailed but these people will never get this money back and will have endured years of stress because of this individual. With the economy in the state it's in, more and more builders are getting into financial difficulty. They are preying on you to keep their cash flowing and do not care about the consequences to you when they stop turning up to complete your build.


Always do the following before you instruct a builder;


  1. Read all the reviews and be very concerned if there aren't any. Don't be fooled by Facebook reviews from their family members.

  2. Do not part with any money upfront.

  3. Speak to CURRENT customers of the builder, not someone who used them over a year ago. Be concerned if you don't see any recent good reviews from this builder.

  4. Have a watertight contract in place with you and the builder. Does it clearly state how to cancel the contract?

  5. Be wary of just sending money every time you're asked for it. If you're 50% through the project, then you shouldn't have paid more than that.

  6. Be very concerned if a quote from a builder is more that 25% cheaper than other quotes.

At Andrews Extensions, we've heard your frustrations and we're here to make a difference. We are receiving a call every week from desperate people who have been let down by a builder. We're the genuine, trustworthy company you've been searching for. With a proven track record of delivering excellence, we're committed to putting an end to the horror stories you've heard.


💡 What sets us apart? 💡


🏗️ Upfront and Honest: Say goodbye to hidden fees and false promises. We provide an upfront quote based on accurate information.

💰 Secure Payments: No more lump sum payments! We operate on a weekly payment schedule, ensuring your peace of mind.

📜 Clear Contract: Your project will be protected by a comprehensive contract, ensuring both parties are on the same page.

🗓️ Timely Completion: Our transparent project timeline and dedicated site teams means you'll always be in the loop on progress.

You will be delighted with the quality of your Extension


Just read our Reviews on Trust Pilot and we would be happy to put you in touch with customers who have just had an Extension built by us.




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