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Category: Masterframe

THREE WAYS TO SPOT A COWBOY BUILDER

When you’re looking for a builder to carry out improvement or renovation work on your home, it can be tempting to try and save money by hiring the cheapest individual you can find. However, cutting corners by hiring a less than reputable building firm could end up costing you a lot more in the long-run as you have to correct their mistakes. At Bygone, we only use experienced and skilled installers of sash windows, but how exactly do you identify a dodgy builder?

DON’T EMPLOY COLD-CALLERS

We’ve all heard the spiel – “I was just in the neighbourhood and noticed…” or “I’ve just been working down the road and have some spare materials…” etc etc. It is imperative that you never take them up on this offer for one simple reason, and that is that good builders are busy builders. A reputable trader will never have to go knocking on doors touting for work, and you should never trust them when they tell you they can offer you a great deal.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE IMPORTANT

They say you should never judge a book by its cover, but in the case of builders and tradesmen, it is a useful indicator of their proficiency. You don’t expect them to carry out the work in their best clothes, but a professional trader will at least make an effort to look professional on their first visit.

The condition of their van or truck is also telling. Dodgy builders will often have poorly maintained vehicles, and it is unlikely that they will have any markings or livery.

A LACK OF OFFICIAL DOCUMENTATION

Even if they have passed every other test of a reputable builder, never deal with a tradesman who doesn’t provide signed documentation and receipts. Dodgy builders will also often request cash up-front, but a professional firm or individual will have no problem covering the cost of their materials until after the work is completed.

At Bygone, we are committed to delivering stunning sash windows, and you can rest assured that we will never compromise the quality of the project by working with cowboy builders. Get in touch with us by completing our online contact form and we will send out all the necessary information to you.