Thinking about having building work done?
Do you need inspiration and expert advice?
Do you want to find a good builder and avoid getting ripped off by cowboys?
Confused by 'red tape', jargon and don't know where to look for help?
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Well, look no further…
The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) today announced the launch of their brand new Find A Builder website (www.findabuilder.co.uk), a comprehensive online resource dedicated to providing consumers with a wealth of information on all matters related to home improvement. From finding a reputable builder to ideas and inspiration, dealing with red tape and much more, the Find A Builder site can guide users through their improvement project from start to finish.
Inspirations
For a start, there are case studies and design ideas to inspire. The Find A Builder site has a variety of case studies covering projects such as loft conversions, extensions, period renovations and new homes. The case studies give a glimpse of how homeowners and builders have worked together to achieve great results.
Finding a Builder!
As the name of the site suggests, it does exactly what is says and can be used to 'Find A Builder'. This is a completely free service that anyone can use to search the FMB member database for builders in their area. By simply entering either the first part of their postcode, their STD telephone area code, town/village or county and then selecting the type of tradesman sought (for example, general builder, plumber or even landscape gardener!), users can generate a list of FMB members in their locality. Users can also decide to search by FMB Members or only members offering MasterBond, the FMB insurance-backed warranty scheme. A list of up to 15 FMB members matching the search criteria is provided, with company name, location, website and trade details.
Top tips and advice
Also on the site are a series of articles offering sound advice and top tips from experts such as Phil Spencer, from Channel Four's 'Location, Location, Location' who advises on key points to consider before buying a home. There is a host of other features including, amongst others, seasonal checklists for maintaining the home and the do's and don'ts of working with your builder. And there's information on planning permission, building regulations and the tell tale signs that help users to spot cowboy traders. Details of FMB services such as the MasterBond warranty, which protects building work for up to ten years and the FMB's plain English contracts are also available on the site.
Get a FREE 'Essential Guide to Home Improvement'
Using the Find A Builder website, you can order or download the FMB's 'Essential Guide to Home Improvement', a glossy 16 page free guide packed full of information on planning a project, and choosing and working with a builder. Copies of the guide can also be obtained by telephoning 08000 152 522.
To find out more about the site and the FMB, log onto www.findabuilder.co.uk
First posted: 15 May 2003. Last modified: 15 May 2003.
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www.findabuilder.co.uk
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