Checklists

Checklist provided by 

www.propertychecklists.co.uk

Research

Engage a RICs surveyor to identify the problem or contact a roofing company. Make sure they are a member of at least one of the following:

• National Federation of Roofing Contractors 

• NAPIT

• Guild of Master Craftsmen

• Federation of Master Builders

• TrustMark Scheme

Meet with the contractors and show them the inside and outside and the problem it’s causing. Are they the person who would carry out the work? 

Ask what Health and Safety measures will be required for anything like scaffolding which could damage neighbouring properties or passers-by.

Check the contractors are insured for anything that might go wrong, eg leaks from the works into the rest of the house.

Check they have up to date professional indemnity, employer and public liability insurance.

Find out what guarantees they offer. Are you covered if the company closes down?

The contractor should give you a contract but if not, you can get one online or, if the quote is comprehensive enough, you can just both sign that.

 Costs

Find out what their day/hourly rate is and if they will give you a fixed quote.

Ask if they will secure the materials and if you pay cost or a mark-up – some might lower the labour rate but make up their money through materials.

Ask whether the work needs building regulations sign-off and whether local building inspectors will need to check the work. If they do, double check you won’t have to pay for anything they have to redo.

Secure three quotes in writing; make sure you can understand them and query anything which is in ‘technical’ speak.

Always ask for quotes which list all charges for labour and materials.

Agree how to pay eg in stage payments.

If the company requires a deposit, find out what happens if the work doesn’t go ahead. Some will repay, some won’t so make sure you an agreement in writing before you hand over any cash.

Timescale

Proceeding with the work

During the work, ideally you need to be there to answer queries or make decisions; if you can’t, be there first thing and just before they leave.

If problems arise, sit down and discuss them – don’t let it build up into a bigger problem or wait until the job is finished.

If you have a compliant, explain in writing what you are unhappy about and advise what you would like them to do about it. If you are not happy with the complaint handling, find out if they have an independent, third party complaints procedure.