🏗Approved Panel

Get a best-priced quote from a screened local builder

Tell us about your building project and our team will match you with the most suitable member of our approved local panel — from single-storey extensions and loft conversions to full renovations and new builds.

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9,500+

Screened panel builders

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Average customer rating

What builders can help with

Building contractors take on projects ranging from minor structural alterations to major renovation and new construction work. A reputable builder will manage your project from groundworks through to completion.

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Extensions

Single-storey, double-storey, side return

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Loft conversions

Velux, dormer, hip-to-gable & mansard

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Renovations

Full property refurbishments & upgrades

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Structural work

RSJ beams, load-bearing walls, underpinning

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Garage conversions

Convert garages into habitable rooms

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Groundworks

Foundations, drainage & site preparation

Typical building project costs

Project	Typical UK cost range	Typical duration
Single-storey rear extension (labour only)	£12,000 – £22,000	6–10 weeks
Double-storey extension (labour only)	£20,000 – £38,000	10–16 weeks
Loft conversion – Velux	£18,000 – £28,000	5–8 weeks
Loft conversion – dormer	£30,000 – £50,000	8–12 weeks
Garage conversion	£8,000 – £16,000	3–5 weeks
Basement conversion	£25,000 – £60,000+	12–20 weeks
Full house renovation (3-bed)	£50,000 – £120,000+	4–9 months

* Labour only costs, excluding materials, VAT, architect/structural engineer fees and planning costs where applicable.

How to choose a reliable builder

Ask about relevant qualifications and memberships

Consider builders who are members of the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) or similar trade bodies. These require members to meet standards and undergo vetting.

Check they have adequate insurance

For building projects, you'll want to confirm public liability insurance and, for larger projects, employers' liability insurance (if they employ workers).

Get a detailed written contract

For any significant building project, insist on a written contract covering scope, materials, programme, payment stages and what happens if issues arise mid-project.

Pay in stages, not upfront

Agree stage payments tied to completion milestones. Never pay more than 10–25% upfront, and retain a final payment until you are fully satisfied with the completed work.

Example panel members near you

Builder FAQs

Many smaller extensions fall within Permitted Development rights and do not require a formal planning application. However, permitted development rules have conditions around size, height and proximity to boundaries. Your builder should be able to advise, but always check with your local planning authority before work starts.

For projects involving structural changes — such as removing load-bearing walls, adding RSJ beams or building extensions — you will typically need a structural engineer to produce calculations. This is separate from your builder and may also be a building regulation requirement.

The best protection is a detailed written contract with stage payments, confirmed insurance, regular site visits and clear documentation of any changes to the scope of work. Consider hiring a project manager or surveyor for very large projects.

Useful guides & related pages

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