Choosing a specialist business to carry out the job is one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of going with loft conversions in London. Everyone has heard horror stories about unscrupulous contractors, and no one wants to be one of them.
How can you tell if the loft conversion firm you’re considering is a good fit? Loft Guru, the loft conversion specialist, has put up a handy checklist of the items you should check before signing any contracts to avoid making an expensive mistake.
Examine Their Portfolio
One of the simplest methods to determine the quality of work is to review a converter’s portfolio. They should have photographs of previous jobs available so you can see the finished product and verify that they have completed several loft conversions! However, a portfolio may be stolen from another source. And some less reputable organizations may even employ stolen or stock photography to populate their website with portfolios. If other images appear in the image search, verify that they are not simply on other sites/profiles related to your builder.
Who are the People Your Neighbors Are Hiring?
The most effective way to determine this is to walk around your neighborhood. And observe who is working on your neighbors’ properties. If you’re close with your neighbors, it’s a good idea to request a tour of their loft conversion to get a sense of the build quality and what’s achievable in a space similar to your own. Additionally, it allows you to inquire about the company’s reputation among your neighbors. If a particular company reappears again, it usually signifies that people appreciated their work on neighboring residences.
Conduct a Minimum of Two or Three Reference Checks
Any good firm will provide references for you to verify. These should often be recent clients. This offers you the opportunity to inquire about the quality of work. The value for money, the organization’s time management and attitude, and if they would use the company again. If former clients are unwilling to recommend the business, you know there is a problem.
Ascertain that they have adequate guarantees and insurance
You want to ensure that any loft conversion firm Hertfordshire you employ will stand behind their work when the task is complete. This means that if any defects occur due to bad workmanship within a specified period. The business you choose will repair them at no additional cost to you.
Additionally, you want to ensure that your loft conversion firm carries valid Contractors’ All Risk Insurance, which protects you against any damage to your property caused by the contractors. As well as their equipment from loss or damage and themselves from harm.
What is the organizational structure of the business?
What you’re watching for here is whether they outsource their work. It is preferable to have in-house trades or trusted partners rather than subcontracting, as this will save money and expedite the project.
Is There a Project Manager on Staff?
Ideally, you’ll have a single point of contact for the project’s duration who can organize and coordinate everything on your behalf. That’s significantly less complicated than dealing with each trade and supplier separately. Therefore you should preferably search for a business that will assign a project manager to oversee all elements of your loft conversions in London and ensure everything works well.
Obtain Multiple Estimates
Once you’ve identified a few reliable builders with impressive portfolios, it’s usually a good idea to do some comparison shopping. Request bids and verify the scope of work – the cheapest quote may not end up being the cheapest task since the original amount may exclude certain requested or even needed work. This is your time to visit with each of your builders and examine their experience and recommendations before deciding.
Ascertain that the quotation is unambiguous
A reputable loft conversion firm will walk you through their quote. And break it down to understand exactly what is and is not include. Ascertain, as well, whether your quote is fix or subject to fluctuation. A reputable provider will always be transparent and honest about charges and will advise you on any contingency costs.
Only when you are satisfy with the outcome of all of these tests should you choose a loft conversion firm. But you can be confident you made the right choice. Not only can a reputable loft conversion firm produce excellent results. But they’ll also make suggestions for optimizing the space and avoiding unnecessary costs. With enough planning and research, you can convert your loft space into a lovely living place while staying within your budget.
Loft Guru, a company that specializes in loft conversions in London, contributed this content. If you’re considering converting your London home’s Loft, contact them now to discuss your options.
