A Homeowner’s Guide – by NOVA Design & Build London
Choosing the right builder is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a home refurbishment, extension, or loft conversion. At NOVA Design & Build London, we often meet clients who come to us after a stressful experience elsewhere — unclear quotes, poor communication, or unexpected costs.
This guide is based on what we see every day on real projects across London and will help you confidently choose a builder who delivers quality, transparency, and peace of mind.
1. Choose a Builder That Specialises in Your Type of Project
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is assuming all builders do the same work.
A builder experienced in new-build developments may struggle with:
- Victorian and Edwardian refurbishments
- Structural alterations in occupied homes
- Tight London access and logistics
At NOVA, we specialise in:
Always ask to see recent projects similar to yours, not just generic portfolio photos.
2. Look for Genuine Reviews and Independent Trust Signals
A professional builder should be easy to verify.
Before appointing anyone, check:
- Independent customer reviews
- Trade accreditations and vetting schemes
- A clear company identity and trading history
NOVA Design & Build London is proudly:
- Featured on TrustATrader
- Endorsed by Which? Trusted Traders
- Reviewed on platforms such as Trustpilot, Houzz, Yell, Bark, and Mumstrusted
You can also view real examples of our completed work in our Projects & Case Studies
3. Insist on a Transparent, Detailed Quote
A common red flag is a quote that looks attractive but lacks detail.
At NOVA, our quotations are:
- Fully itemised
- Clear on inclusions and exclusions
- Honest about provisional sums
- Transparent about VAT
This approach allows our clients to compare quotes properly and avoid costly surprises later.
4. Ask Who Will Actually Run Your Project
Good building isn’t just about workmanship — it’s about management.
Before appointing a builder, clarify:
- Who your day-to-day project manager will be
- How often you’ll receive updates
- How variations are handled and costed
- How coordination with architects and Building Control is managed
At NOVA, every project is overseen by an experienced project manager, ensuring clear communication from start to finish. Learn more about how we work here: Our Design & Build Process
5. Check Insurance and Compliance (Don’t Feel Awkward Asking)
Any reputable builder should carry appropriate insurance as standard.
You should always ask for:
- Public Liability Insurance
- Employer’s Liability Insurance
- Contractors All Risk Insurance (for larger projects)
If a builder hesitates or avoids the question, walk away.
6. Use a Proper Contract — Always
A written contract protects both parties and sets expectations clearly.
At NOVA, we work with recognised residential building contracts that cover:
- Scope of works
- Payment schedules
- Programme and key milestones
- Variations and defects liability
7. Trust Your Instincts (They’re Usually Right)
Beyond price and paperwork, trust how the builder communicates.
Ask yourself:
- Are they upfront about costs and risks?
- Do they explain things clearly?
- Do they manage expectations realistically?
At NOVA, we believe honesty at the start is the foundation of a successful project — even if it means telling a client something they didn’t expect to hear.
Final Thoughts: Choose Confidence, Not Just a Cheap Quote
Choosing the right builder isn’t about finding the lowest price — it’s about finding a trusted partner who respects your home, your budget, and your time.
If you’re planning a refurbishment, extension, or loft conversion in London, NOVA Design & Build London would be happy to help.
👉 Visit our Contact Us page to arrange a consultation or request a detailed, transparent quotation.
