recommendations on builders

[kevinlan]

Hi all,

Apologies for my naivety, but would anyone be able to recommend a local (peckham/nunhead/new cross) builder that has been reliable and completed the build in good time?

We have just been let down by our current builder. We instructed him to build a side return extension on our property back in November and after nearly 8 months we still aren't completed.

Much of the construction is finished, but we only have 1st fix wiring, a half built kitchen and a multitude of carpentry to do, not to mention a snagging list the length of my arm!

I'd appreciate any recommendations that you guys can offer.

[fatcats]

I'd recommend our builder, David O'Brien. He did some structural work for us which involved removing 2 chimney breasts and a load bearing wall. He stepped in after we were let down by another builder the day before the work was supposed to start. He works with quite a big team of people so is sometimes able to juggle things around and start at short notice. He's very pleasant to deal with and very good at returning calls.

If you do a search on here and also the virtual norwood forum there are a few posters that have recommended him for building extensions.

The work he did for us was reasonably priced and we were pleased with the work he did, which has been signed off by a surveyor from the council's building control department. He also does not demand lots of money up front.

[kevinlan]

Hi Fatcats,

Thanks for the speedy reply. I'll certainly go and look him up. Kind of can't help feeling like the whole process with builders needs to be structured and organised more. There is so much trust invested (and likewise cash) which I don't think that they really understand - which is a real shame. Kind of tainted my view a little!

[fatcats]

No problem, hope everything works out with your project. It's stressful enough doing works to your house without having to deal with someone like the guy you describe above!

[kevinlan]

Yes, certainly. It's my partner and my first house and our first real experience with tradesmen. Not off to the best start! :(

I'll keep you informed with what happens.