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Federation of Master Builders
What can you expect from an FMB builder?
Choosing a builder who's a member of the FMB means a really good start with any building project.
The FMB is a trade association that promotes professionalism and high quality workmanship among small and medium-sized building firms throughout the U.K.
Only builders and specialist who can prove their skills and good business standing are accepted as members of the FMB, and the Federation logo on builders' vans or stationary is widely accepted as the hallmark of a builder who takes pride in the quality of his work, and who matches it with an equally well-run business.
In addition, the FMB code of practice means that you can expect the following professional and ethical working procedures and practice from the FMB builder you have selected.
The FMB Code of Practice.
Your builder will try to make sure that you have all the professioal advice you need on the project if it is large or complex project. This may involve getting the support of architects, surveyors or othe specialist professionals.
An FMB builder will never quote on a project for which he has insufficient time or is otherwise unsuited to undertake.
He will make sure that he has sufficient insurance cover for the contract.
His written quotation will state the following:
●the price
●what is and isn't included in the price
●what form of agreement will be used between you (for instance, the FMB produce Plain English Contracts which are clear and unambiguous).
The Contract will state the following:
●how long the job will take
●when the work will start
●whether the work is covered by an insurance backed warranty, together with details of any such cover.
●Payment terms
Alternatively, your builder may quote a daywork rate and provide a copy of the standard terms and conditions.
Whilst the work is in progress:
●Your builder will proceed with the work according to the agreement between you, and will brif you regularly on progress.
●If there are unavoidable problems or delays you will be informed of these as early as possible
●Your builder will supply you with samples of all materials and fittings for prior approval
●If there are changes to the work specified or extra costs these will be confirmed in writing, and agreed with you before such work begins.
● Your builder and his employees will at all times treat you and your property with respect and ensure that the working site remains a safe and healthy environment.
When the work is complete:
● Your builder will leave the site clean and tidy and ready for use
● Any relevant operating instructions and guarantees will be handed over to you, and you will be properly briefed about any relevant maintenance or operating issues.
●A date will be arranged for your builder to return and complete any defects which may have arisen during the first few months.
...Plus a few things you can do to help your builder deliver a first-class job.
Hep yourself and your FMB builder by following these simple guildlines- and make sure of a result you'll be proud of.
Before work begins:
● If necessary get competitive quotes from more than one builder, and make sure they understand exactly what you want done.
●Ensure you have funds available when needed.
● Choose a builder with a proven track record in the kind of work you're having done.
●Use an approved form of contract and sign before work begins, or alternatively, agree a daywork rate subject to normal terms and conditions (this can be a suitable arrangement for emergency or minor works)
●Make sure that you understand the quotation and agreement and that it is signed and accepted by both you and your builder.
●Ensure that the site is cleared and ready for the builder to start work.
●Make sure your builder has unhindered access to the site.
Whist work is in progress:
●Develop a good working relationship with your builder. If you have any concerns about the work, decuss them right away.
●Keep extras to a minimum and instruct your builder in writing about all variations to the specified work.
●Choose materials and finishes carefully and approve them before use.
●Make any staged or up-front payments promptly.
●When the work is complete:
●Report any urgent defects to your builder promptly and in writing.
●List any non-urgent defects for your builder to correct at an agreed time.
●Settle the final account promptly.