How to Choose a Builder in Cambridge: 10 Questions

Finding a builder in Cambridge isn't hard — there are dozens of companies listed online. But finding the right builder, one who delivers quality work on time and on budget, requires more than a quick Google search. These 10 questions will help you separate the professionals from the cowboys.

Why These Questions Matter

Most homeowners focus on price when choosing a builder. But price tells you nothing about reliability, workmanship, or whether the project will actually get finished. The cheapest quote often becomes the most expensive project.

These questions focus on what really matters: experience, insurance, references, contracts, and payment terms. Ask them early, and you'll quickly identify which builders take their work seriously.

Question 1: Can You Show Me Examples of Similar Work?

Every builder has a portfolio. But you want to see projects similar to yours — not just renders or plans, but recent jobs of comparable size and complexity.

What to look for:

• Photos of completed projects, not just renders or plans
• Before and after shots showing the scope of work
• Projects in Cambridge or nearby (local references you can verify)
• Work completed within the last 2-3 years

Red flag: If they only have a few photos, or they're all from years ago, ask why. Good builders document their work.

Question 2: Can I Speak to Previous Clients?

References aren't just a formality. A reputable builder will give you phone numbers of past clients without hesitation.

What to ask previous clients:

• Did they stick to the quoted price?
• Was the project finished on time?
• How was communication throughout?
• Would you use them again?
• Were there any problems, and how were they resolved?

Red flag: If they can't provide references, or the references are only email testimonials (which can be fabricated), proceed with caution.

Question 3: Are You Fully Insured?

This isn't negotiable. If a worker is injured on your property or a neighbour's property is damaged, you could be liable if the builder isn't properly insured.

Ask for:

• Public liability insurance (minimum £2 million)
• Employer's liability insurance (required by law if they have employees)
• Copies of certificates, not just assurances

Red flag: Any hesitation to provide insurance certificates is a warning sign.

Question 4: What's Your Payment Schedule?

Never pay 100% upfront. A professional builder will request stage payments tied to progress — deposit, then payments at key milestones.

Typical schedule:

• 10% deposit with signed contract
• Further payments at foundation, structure, and finishing stages
• Final payment only after snagging is complete

Red flag: Requests for large upfront payments or cash-only transactions suggest financial instability or tax avoidance.

Question 5: Will You Provide a Written Contract?

A verbal agreement isn't worth the paper it's not written on. A proper contract protects both you and the builder.

The contract should include:

• Full scope of work with specifications
• Timeline with start and estimated completion dates
• Payment schedule
• How variations (changes) will be priced
• Warranty period
• Dispute resolution process

Question 6: How Do You Handle Changes During the Project?

Almost every project has changes — you might want to move a socket, add an extra socket, or change the kitchen layout. How these are priced matters.

Ask:

• How are variation requests priced?
• Will you provide written quotes for changes?
• How quickly can you price variations?

Red flag: Vague responses about changes, or resistance to putting variations in writing.

Question 7: What Warranty Do You Offer?

Good builders stand behind their work. Ask what happens if something goes wrong after they've finished.

Standard warranties:

• Workmanship: 6 months to 2 years
• Materials: Depends on the product (roofing tiles, windows, etc. have manufacturer warranties)
• Structural work: Often covered by building regulations

Question 8: Who Will Be On Site Each Day?

Some builders have a team. Others subcontract everything. You want to know who's actually doing the work.

Ask:

• Will you (the quote provider) be managing the project daily?
• Are your employees directly employed or subcontractors?
• Will there be someone on site every working day?

Red flag: If the person quoting won't be involved in the project, ask who will manage it.

Question 9: What's Your Timeline and Availability?

Good builders are busy. If they can start tomorrow, ask why.

Realistic expectations:

• A 4-6 week wait for a reputable builder is normal
• Ask for a written programme showing key milestones
• Discuss what happens if there are delays (weather, material shortages)

Red flag: Unrealistic promises about completion dates, or inability to give you a start date.

Question 10: Can I Visit a Current Project?

The best reference is seeing a builder at work. Ask if you can visit a site they're currently working on.

What to look for:

• Is the site tidy and organised?
• Are workers professional and polite?
• Is there evidence of health and safety practices?
• How do they interact with the homeowner?

Summary: Choosing a Builder in Cambridge

Asking these questions won't guarantee a perfect project — but they will eliminate the builders you definitely shouldn't hire. The ones who answer confidently, provide documentation willingly, and give you time to decide are the professionals.

The ones who pressure you, avoid questions, or quote suspiciously low prices aren't worth the risk.