The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) and Sarah Beeny, from Channel 4's Property Ladder, are calling on homeowners throughout the UK to share their best-kept secret - the name of a brilliant builder - as the FMB once again launches the search to find the best builder in Britain.
The Master Builder of the Year awards are unique because every builder must be nominated by a satisfied client, who is so pleased with their finished project that they feel their builder deserves national recognition. It is designed to reward both builders and clients, which means if your builder wins, you could enjoy a £3,000 holiday!
Sarah Beeny, presenter of Channel 4's Property Ladder, is supporting this year's awards: "Building projects need careful planning, good communication and some really hard work to produce great results. So, if your latest project worked well and you're proud of the work, why not enter your builder for the awards? The Master Builder of the Year Awards 2006 provides the perfect opportunity for homeowners to give praise where it is due."
Whether you've recently had a loft conversion, a barn renovation, or a new kitchen extension, say thanks to your builder by entering the awards. There are eight categories open to all builders, from sole traders to larger companies. If you've found someone worth shouting about, then the FMB wants to hear from you.
This year the FMB has introduced a new category for renovation projects to make sure the competition is open to as many builders as possible. Other categories cover New Homes, Conservatories, Commercial Projects (up to £3m) and Energy Efficient Buildings, with a special Heavenly Builder award for builders who display outstanding levels of customer service, no matter how small the job they undertake.
Ian Davis, director general of FMB says: "Our latest research reveals that most of the problems that arise during building projects are caused by a breakdown in communication and a lack of understanding between clients and builders. Last year we had well over 1,000 entries thanks to nominations from delighted homeowners and we are expecting even more this year. Not only did they establish good working relationships with their builders, many became firm friends too."
You will find more details and an entry form at www.findabuilder.co.uk or by calling freephone 08000 152 522. The closing date for entries is 31st July and Sarah Beeny will present the winners with their awards at the Royal Lancaster hotel in London, on November 9th 2006.
Master Builder of the Year 2006 is organised by the Federation of Master Builders in association with Nissan Motor (GB) Ltd, and sponsored by American Express, Aon Ltd, B & CE Benefit Schemes, British Gypsum, CITB-ConstructionSkills, Energy Saving Trust, Envirowise, HBXL, Hewden, Hilti, Homebuilding and Renovating, K2 Conservatory Roof Systems, LABC, Paramount Group of Hotels, Professional Builder magazine, Sage Construction, Screwfix Direct, Travis Perkins, and Master Builder magazine.
Follow the FMB's top tips to a perfect relationship with your builder:
Check them out
You must make sure you trust your builder and that you both understand how you will work together, to be sure you are a good match.
Use a contract
Draw up a written contract, with an agreed timetable that both you and the builder are happy with.
Be realistic
Builder's aren't mind readers, so if your project is not going to plan you must spell it out, explain what you want, and discuss the options.
Keep talking
Good communication is essential. If you want to make changes during the job, ensure that you understand any implications they may have to avoid a shock at the end.
Be available
Make sure you let you builder know when you will be around in case they need you to make any quick decisions. If you go out, provide contact numbers.
Just ask
If you don't understand building jargon just ask - this will ensure there are no nasty surprises and you know what to expect.
Pay promptly
Set out a timetable for how and when payment will take place throughout the project, so that you can plan ahead. When you get to each stage, check you are happy with the work and pay promptly.
First posted: 16 March 2006. Last modified: 17 March 2006.
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