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Cowboy builders

(32 Posts)
Jalima1108 Thu 15-Nov-18 20:28:28

If you ask Age Concern they should have a list of approved tradesmen who will not 'rip off' older customers and will do a decent job.

annep Thu 15-Nov-18 20:21:04

Surprised at Facebook Maybe broaden your search.
Ask around friends neighbours or if you see a new job done perhaps the people would be kind enough to give the builders name.

M0nica Thu 15-Nov-18 20:06:48

Here is a reference to a Guardian article on finding a builder, which lists a number of the online sites and tells you something about them
www.theguardian.com/money/2018/jun/04/reliable-builder-websites-traders

Unfortunately in their test run they used a query about garden services, just about the most difficult people to find. I did find though that the day rates they were quoted per person, were similar to what is charged in Oxfordshire. So tradesmen on these sites quote competitive rates.

Auntieflo Thu 15-Nov-18 19:37:32

I have heard that there is also an online site where you can put in what you want done, and ask tradesmen to quote.
Not sure if it is nationwide though.

BlueBelle Thu 15-Nov-18 19:32:49

I can’t remember what it’s called but there is an online trade directory with reviews and awards etc I ve used it twice and both times was very happy with the outcome I used a highly recommend chap for my bathroom from a workmate and wasn’t so happy

Elegran Thu 15-Nov-18 19:23:21

Ask around all your friends and neighbours. You will hear the unvarnished truth.

watermeadow Thu 15-Nov-18 19:06:45

I’m trying to find a builder for a biggish job and keep being warned about cowboys but it’s hard to find anyone who answers the phone, rings back, can start within 6 months or comes to look at the job.
I live rurally and there are few workmen close by. Asking for recommendations on local Facebook yielded nothing appropriate. Looking up trades on line warns that they are not checked and good ones don’t advertise themselves
there.
I got one from Thomson’s Directory who came promptly, was helpful and seemed knowledgeable but I should get more than one estimate and however can I find out if he’s genuine?