Do I need a contract with my builder

aromamum

Hi There

I am new to this and just receive full planning permission for my extension.

I am currently trying to get builders quotes.

I am not using my architect as project manager/intermediary for the build.

My question is, do I use some sort of contract for the work with my builder and if so do I provide this or him?

Also at the end, do I employ someone to come down to sign off on the job and that it is all done properly?

thanks
aromamum

Builderfromhell

I'm a abuilder and would strongly advise you get a contract. This is as much for the builder's benefit as yourself. Minimimses ambiquity. Also you will save money and aggravation if you issue a proper set of contract docs. with a smuch detail as possible. The more detail the better. For example you may want recessed lights in Kitchen. Builder has much of the house built and tells you he priced for one ceiling rose. You now ask for more lights he says 500 euro. He's the builder and you have few alternatives. The same applies to type of heating system, Sanitary ware, etc.
best to have detailed info. so prices can be prepared.
Good enginneer is essential (IMHO), you'll probably need one to certify work ofr bank anyway.

sinnerboy

I agree with BFH and add

BEFORE WORKS START inform your insurance company AND

get them to approve contractors insurances EL / PL and CAR

get programme of works before start

identify PC sums and builders discount now

agree stage payments schedule

agree retentions ( stage ) and final relase amounts

agree defects liability period

make your mind asap on client finishes and fitting

try not to change your mind TOO much during works

good luck

muffler

Those 2 posts just about sum it up.

A contract? Most definitely.

OPENROAD

sinnerboy wrote: »

I agree with BFH and add

BEFORE WORKS START inform your insurance company AND

get them to approve contractors insurances EL / PL and CAR

I found when we were having works that my Insurance company didn't/wouldn't approve contrctors insurance,they just said make sure that they have insurance cover but that was it.

sinnerboy

just make sure you tell them .LOOK for their approval . don't find yourself in a situation where where a builder floods your house and your insurance company don't want to know because you did not inform them before works started . fax them ,e mail , them write to them . if you don't get a written response , confirm their response in writing . THIS IS VITAL

you may say "but my contractor will have insurance" - YOU have to insure the existing house at all times

aromamum

thanks for you replies everyone...but I still have one question -

where do I get the contract from? do I enlist a solicitor or is there a standard set that can be gotten from somewhere?

thanks
aromamum

sinnerboy

aromamum wrote: »

thanks for you replies everyone...but I still have one question -

where do I get the contract from? do I enlist a solicitor or is there a standard set that can be gotten from somewhere?

thanks
aromamum

RIAI 8 Merrion Square Dublin 2 Ask for blue form of contract

aromamum

thanks sinnerboy!

archtech

sinnerboy wrote: »

RIAI 8 Merrion Square Dublin 2 Ask for blue form of contract

Seeing as the job isn't that large (in the greater scale of building contracts) the Pink form (Short Form) would also be suitable.

You should get some advise from a professional (architect/engineer/ technician) with experience in administrating building contracts before proceeding/signing one