Established for over 25 years, Sturgess and Sturgess is a family firm based in North Dorset. We undertake projects that cover a broad spectrum of the construction industry and our work has featured in various County magazines and Property Reviews over the years. Andy Sturgess, who heads the company, has also been called upon to write articles on various aspects of period property construction and renovation.
Our business is large enough to undertake several projects together with sufficient staff to prevent delays. We use skilled, qualified time served tradesman and are able to cover work of a varied nature within our own employed work force. We have a lot of experience working with old and tired buildings and have the expertise to undertake complicated and unusual projects. If you have a building project in any stage from just an idea to full plans do contact us for guidance and once formulated an estimate. I do hope that our company can be of assistance to you. Andy Sturgess
Building work required? Which builder do I choose?
In days gone by the answer was simple, look around and see who was the local builder who worked in your area and get them to discuss the project, costs, agree a way forward and let them undertake the work.
Nowadays the approach has changed and home-owners wish to take a greater involvement in the planning and execution of their building projects. This has led to several estimates being obtained from several builders and the home owner having to make a decision as to who to appoint. For some people it appears the decision is simple, just accept the lowest price but is this the correct way forward?
Below are some pointers for the owner to consider in addition to the bottom line price:
- Are all the builders estimating with the same specifications?
- Do all the builders understand what they are pricing for?
- Are all of the builders of the same standard?
- Have you examined the builders previous work
- Have you spoken to previous customers of the builder?
- Do the builders employ their own operatives?
- Do they employ a lot of sub contracted labour?
- Are the builders operatives experiences/trained?
- Are the builders members of professional organisations?
- Is the estimate detailed or vague?
- Have you been furnished with a schedule of work?
- Have you obtained recommendations from a reliable source?
- Have the builders experience in the area of work you require?
- Are the builders professionally insured and by whom?
- Is the builder financially sound?
- Will they continue on site until finished?
- Will they honour the starting date?
- Is the service offered efficient and reliable?
- Could you work with the builder for the duration of the work?
- Do you feel happy with the builder and what he is offering you?
These are questions you should be asking yourself along with others relevant to the work you require carried out for your particular building project.
Before committing yourself make sure that you are happy that both you and the builder are clear about all eventualities. Be clear of any known areas where additional work or expense may occur. Once you have made the correct choice relax and enjoy your project, remember a reputable builder will look after you.