You’ve probably heard horror stories about builders who start a construction job and then disappear after a few days, leaving their clients out of pocket. Sadly, this happens far too often, as cowboy builders exploit legal loopholes to scam unsuspecting homeowners.
Every year, organisations like Action Fraud and Citizens Advice receive thousands of complaints related to builder fraud. Thankfully, TV programmes like Cowboy Builders and Rogue Traders help expose these scam artists, raising public awareness. As a design and build company, we’ve become experts at identifying fraudsters, so here are our 10 tips to help you avoid cowboy builders.
Key Takeaways
- Never trust builders who approach you unsolicited.
- Always have a clear and detailed project plan.
- Get at least three quotes to compare.
- Check for membership in reputable industry bodies.
- Ensure the builder has Public Liability Insurance.
- Confirm that materials are included in the quote.
- Agree on staged payments and hold back the final payment until you’re satisfied.
What Are Cowboy Builders?
The term “cowboy builder” comes from the reputation of cowboys as being careless and untrustworthy. In the construction world, it refers to builders who lack formal training or qualifications and produce substandard work.
These rogue builders often undercut reputable contractors by offering unrealistically cheap quotes, but they deliver poor-quality results. Lacking professional skills and business integrity, they pose a risk to homeowners looking for reliable construction services.
How to Avoid Cowboy Builders: Practical Tips for Homeowners
Finding a reliable builder for your project is crucial to avoiding scams and ensuring quality work. Rogue builders often take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners by offering cheap quotes and pressuring for cash upfront. Below are 10 essential tips to help you steer clear of cowboy builders and safeguard your investment:
1. Never Trust Cold Callers
f a builder knocks on your door uninvited, offering to fix an issue you didn’t even notice, don’t be tempted. Reputable builders don’t operate this way, and any request for cash upfront is a huge red flag.
2. Start With a Specification
Take control of your project by clearly specifying what you want done. This could include architectural plans or a detailed description of the work, right down to the finish of the paint. Being specific helps avoid misunderstandings later.
3. Always Get 3 Quotes
Scammers thrive on pressuring you into quick decisions. Always get at least three quotes from different builders. Ensure they visit your property so they can provide an accurate estimate based on your requirements.
4. Check Out Before Choosing
Even if you’ve received a good quote and the builder seems trustworthy, do your due diligence:
- Check for accreditations like Trustmark, Federation of Master Builders (FMB), or National Federation of Builders (NFB).
- Investigate how long they’ve been in business.
- Look for customer reviews on reliable platforms like TrustaTrader, Google, or Facebook.
5. Agree on a Payment Schedule
It’s normal for contractors to ask for a deposit—around 30% is reasonable. However, hold back the final payment until a few weeks after completion, giving you time to inspect the work and ensure everything is up to standard.
6. Discuss Insurance
A trustworthy building contractor will hold Public Liability Insurance. This guarantees that any injury sustained on site is covered (including builders, the public or family family members), as well as any damage to the property.
7. Ensure Materials are Included in Quote
An eye-catching quote can sometimes be low because it doesn’t include materials. Double-check exactly what’s covered in the quote and what isn’t.
8. Trust Your Instincts
Even after you’ve made all your checks, you should take a step back and consider how you feel about a particular builder. This is someone who will spend a reasonable amount of time in your home, so if you have any doubts, look elsewhere.
9. Agree on a Deadline
Don’t assume that a builder will naturally get the work done as quickly as possible. You need to negotiate a reasonable deadline. This should include leeway for unavoidable delays such as bad weather or illness. Clarity on your deadline, as part of your signed agreement is important.
10. If You Sense There’s a Problem
If a builder is an experienced cowboy, it’s likely that once they have your money, there’s little you can do about retrieving it. Many scammers set up Ltd companies and then liquidate if pursued through the courts. You can report them via The Dept of Trading Standards, Citizens’ Advice and Action Fraud.
Looking for a No Risk Approach to Finding a Builder?
Construction Supermarket exists to kick the fraud out of the construction sector. They put clients in touch with verified builders in their area. The company ensures that no payment is released until the work has been checked by an independent Quality Surveyor.
Conclusion
Avoiding cowboy builders is about being informed and cautious. Follow the above tips to minimise the risk of hiring a fraudulent contractor and ensure your building project goes smoothly. Taking the time to research, check qualifications, and agree on clear terms with your builder will save you stress, time, and money in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I verify a builder’s credentials?
Check for membership in trusted trade organisations like Trustmark or the Federation of Master Builders. Also, look for customer reviews on reputable platforms like TrustaTrader or Google.
Is it normal to pay a deposit upfront?
Yes, a deposit of around 30% is standard. However, always hold back the final payment until the project is completed and thoroughly checked.
What should be included in a builder’s quote?
The quote should cover all aspects of the work, including materials, labour, and any additional costs. Make sure it’s detailed and that both parties understand what’s included.
What do I do if I suspect I’ve hired a cowboy builder?
If you feel you’ve been scammed, report the builder to Trading Standards, Action Fraud, or Citizens Advice. They can guide you on the next steps to recover your money or take legal action.
Why is it important to have a contract?
A contract protects both you and the builder by clearly outlining the scope of work, timelines, and payment terms. It helps prevent disputes and ensures accountability.
