Home Construction Tips and Advice for Choosing the Right Builder

Home construction is one of the largest investments many of us will ever make, and that is why choosing the right house builder is extremely important. Home construction involves, planning, designing and exacting your idea to transform your dream home into a reality, hence, it is important to work with a professional house builder and not just contractors.

Professional house builders will use their knowledge and skills to assist you in planning and constructing a beautiful home. They will guide you to build your home based on your needs and preferences. They are experts in creating durable designs with   high quality building materials to meet the needs and tastes of customers, in so doing they keep within the prescribed budget

Moreover, standard practices and other industry regulations are not neglected when you choose a professional house builder.

What is the difference between a contractor and house builder?

Contractor

A contractor is licensed to manage an entire project and will sub contract specific tasks to the specialists in the field. For example, a contractor who is overlooking a home renovation project works with sub-contractors such as plumbers, electricians, painters, and so on. The contractor holds the responsibility of overseeing the quality of the subcontractors.

House builder

House builders have multiple responsibilities, which may vary depending on the contract. They are responsible for the   entire process of a construction project. House builders have a team of diverse skill sets who are capable of doing all types of jobs in home construction within the said timeframe and budget. A house builder has to understand the needs of their client and provide them with a solution that best suits their requirements. Their responsibility extends from the beginning to the end of the project, regardless of its scope i.e. planning, scheduling and supervising the work. House builders accomplish their duties by planning activities, supervising workers, and ensuring the project completes in compliance to the local construction industry standards.

Specific roles and duties of a house builder

House builders may be involved in some of the design work. The role of a house builder varies depending on the size of the project and whether they are a small or large-scale builder.

Small-scale builders will typically be involved in smaller projects such as building extensions, loft conversions, and garden buildings. These builders will usually take on these projects themselves or with one or two other tradespeople.

Large-scale builders are more likely to work on larger projects such as new builds, commercial developments, and public sector contracts. These builders need to employ many tradespeople who have specific roles in the construction process including carpenters, plumbers, electricians etc., which means that they may have to source these tradespeople themselves rather than employing them directly.

The house builders in the modern era have a lot more responsibility than those in the past. They are not just responsible for designing and overseeing construction, but also for preparing site, sourcing materials and overseeing construction through to completion.

Some of the roles a house builder can assume during different stages of a project includes:

  • Project planning: The first and foremost role of a house builder is to design a plan based on the needs of the client. In addition, they also determine the construction equipment and material requirements and establish a budget for the project.
  • Project management: They are also involved in many project management activities such as managing funds to keep the project moving, managing payroll for their own employees, and subcontractor payments.
  • Project tracking: House builders track the progress and ensure to complete the work according to contract specifications and schedules. Most importantly, they have to check quality control and ensure site safety.
  • Managing Legal and Safety Issues: House builders have a handful of responsibilities to manage such as the necessary permits and licenses before starting the project. They also guarantee health and safety on the site, by implementing adequate procedures and raising awareness among workers.

If you are planning to build a house, then it is important that you hire a qualified builder. You need to find someone who can do the job right and not just someone who is cheap. A qualified house builder will be able to give you an estimate of the cost of building your new home, liaise with other tradesmen, oversee building work and ensure that all legal requirements are met. A qualified house builder will be capable of managing uncertainty and taking decisions on a daily basis and ensure the completion of the project within the budget.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right House Builder

Choosing a house builder can be a difficult process, especially if you have no experience. There are many house builders in the market, but who is the most reliable of them all? Building a new home is one of the largest investments so one must choose an ideal builder that fits your needs, stays within your budget, and helps you build your custom home according to your specifications.

Most importantly, choosing the right builder is not just about finding a service that fits your budget. The experience, references, and the guarantee of highest quality service and craftsmanship are some attributes that should be taken into account.

Below are some important tips and advice that will help you choose the right builder for your home.

  • Experience

An experienced house builder will have all the legal permits, as well as the support of experienced team members.   A builder who has been in business for decades will have sufficient knowledge about the industry, the material and the evolving architecture.  When there is any problem/issue, an experienced builder will be able to overcome such issues quickly and effectively. With an experienced team you will receive everything you need to feel safe and assured that your construction is in good hands. An experienced builder meets quality standards that evaluate all aspects of construction and build quality homes that stand the test of time.

  • Reputation

Hand in hand with experience goes reputation of a house builder. This plays an essential role in the industry. There are many builders and developers who are trying to occupy a greater bite of the market. As a potential buyer, it can often get confusing to choose the best builder in town. As you narrow down your builder choices, you should read reviews and speak to past or current clients. Client reviews can help you understand about their work and the process. Most importantly, ask past customers about their experiences with the builder. Past customers feedback and reviews can help you make a confident decision. Moreover, a builder should be part of a strong network which will keep your project moving and ensure that all work and finishings are completed to the highest standard.

  • Licenses and Insurance

It is necessary to check whether the builder has the proper licensing and accreditation. Accreditation and licensing shows that the house builder is qualified to handle the job and in compliance with local building regulations. Some builders’ licenses or registrations may have simply expired, or they may have had their licenses revoked but are still involved in the industry. As a good starting point, ask for copies of current certification to check and verify whether your builder is licensed, registered and insured.

Most importantly you should verify whether they have the appropriate insurance cover for the company, the employees and you in the event of a loss or accident.

  • Knowledge of building codes and ordinances

Home construction industry has its particular set of regulations and building codes to maintain that a built environment is designed for fire safety and sustainability. While selecting a house builder in the UK, it is essential to check the builder’s familiarity with local building codes because you might end up spending more money if there are any violations related to local building codes and standards. Therefore, always select a builder who is   updated and aware of the latest local building code requirements.

  • Financial Stability

In the process of choosing a builder, many people often forget to cross-check the financial stability and are side tracked with specialist services or products that the builder might be offering Needless to say, you should check whether the builder is financially stable and whether or not he is overleveraged and needs to clear debts. Always select a builder with enough cash on hand, so that he is able to accomplish the build. If not, you could be left high and dry when the builder goes bankrupt during the process of the project.

  • Price and Budget

Price and budget are probably the most definitive, factors that are taken into account when choosing the right builder for your home.

A professional builder usually provides a detailed account of costs for the project and any juncture that may arise. The cost for unknown contingencies is factored into the quote, making you aware of any possible additional costs that could arise.

  • Check out the warranty

The most notable point and of utmost importance is that you make sure the builder gives you a warranty that carries a promise of qualitative work and to repair or replace certain parts of building work carried out, putting your mind at ease for any unexpected issues.

  • Documented contract

Having a legally documented contract in place helps to formalize the arrangement. A contract of agreement offers a layer of protection for both the parties. It’s important to prepare a contract that clearly outlines what’s been agreed. It helps you and the builder to be on the same page before moving forward with a construction project. Without a formal written contract, you can run into issues if either party has a dispute.

These basic factors will help you select a house builder who is reputable, reliable and will deliver not only a dream home but a valuable asset that will enhance your investment with time.

Trust the professional house builders at Manak Homes

When you’re looking for a home builder, you want a company that has been in the business for years and has the experience and the motivation to produce quality work. Manak Homes can offer you all of this and more.

As a locally owned house building company, with offices in London and the South East, we’ve refined and perfected the new home building experience to deliver the best quality homes, backed by our professional and experienced team.

We’ve been in business for the last 3 years, catering to customers ranging from new build to home renovations. Our whole team at Manak Homes has a thorough understanding and expertise to deliver quality solutions.  We are committed to provide a smooth and hassle-free build process from your initial design consultation, through to planning, construction, handover and beyond.

What sets us apart from our competitors is our experience and industry know-how, along with a high-quality of craftsmanship and close attention to detail. At Manak Homes we have always listened to our client requirements and have never underestimated the financial and emotional investment our clients are making.

Need more reasons to choose Manak Homes?

Here are just a few reasons about our quality of work and most significantly, our commitment to build homes and residential communities:

  • Award winning home: It’s for a good reason that we’ve received WhatHouse Award for Best Luxury Home, customer service, value for money and affordability.
  • Experience: We have the experience and industry know-how to work with the all the challenges to create, delightful residential communities to suit your needs.
  • Talented team: A company is only ever as good as it’s team. We have a team of talented individuals across London and the South East, doing what they love, is reflected in our beautiful homes and incredible customer service.
  • Affordable & quality: Our competitive prices deliver value to our customers. Our fine craftsmanship allows us to build with integrity, and to the highest industry standards.
  • Exceptional customer services: When you choose Manak Homes as your house builder, you can expect a hands-on approach. Our professional and experienced team is there to support you throughout the process of the project, with an outstanding customer service.

If you’re looking for experienced, reliable home builders near London and the South East of England, why not reach out to us at Manak Homes. We’re happy   to help. Simply fill out the form and we will be in touch within 24 hours.

Or you can call us on 0203 871 2560.

Or:

email us at info@manakhomes.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

The following is a list of most commonly asked questions which you should be asking a builder before signing any agreement.

How do I find reliable builders in London?

In the construction industry it is important to find a builder that you can trust. Always look for recommendations and speak with previous and ongoing clients of the builder/builders you are considering. Ask the people who provided the references and find out how happy they were with the quality of the workmanship and the builder’s conduct.

Manak Homes is one of the best house builders in London and the South East of England. We ensure that quality is our number one priority. We have transparent approach to pricing that meets your budget, as well as your family’s needs.

Am I able to see previous or ongoing work in person?

A builder shouldn’t be reluctant in showing their previous or ongoing work. They should gladly arrange a visit and invite you along to see a finished project. Never choose a builder who hesitates in showing their past projects.

How many builders’ quotes should you get?

It is necessary to get a minimum of three quotes from builders that have been recommended to you by a trusted source. Never select the first quote you get from a builder. Thoroughly check what is included in that quotation. Always remember that the cheapest quote is not always the best option.

Should a builder ask for a deposit?

Builder asks for a payment of a deposit as evidence of commitment on the part of the owner and to cover the equipment and materials required. This deposit can range from 10% to 25% of the total value of the work which you are contracting to them.

However, 10% deposit is reasonable but do not pay 50% or even more upfront.

How do I find out if my builder is registered?

A Builder should be a member of either the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) or must be registered with the TrustMark to perform any building work. Before you engage a builder, check the status of their registration at www.trustmark.org.uk. Manak homes meet all the required standard in terms of customer service, trading practices and technical competence.

Does a house builder follow any health and safety guidelines?

In the UK, House builders are committed to follow all the aspects of Health and Safety not only on all their sites but in their offices as well. However, if you think that the working practice is unsafe at your own site, then discuss your concerns with your builder.

Should a house builder offer a warranty?

As your dream home is your biggest investments of your life, a good warranty program will give you a complete peace of mind. A house builder warranty will protect your house from any structural damages, keeping your investment protected, so always remember to request a warranty.

Where do you build?

Manak Homes build homes throughout the London and the South East of England.

How long does it take to build?

The completion time of every project will vary depending on the size of your home, complexity of the build and the inclusions. Manak Homes will be able to give you a timeframe during the initial consultation after reviewing all the documents in detail. So, you can rest at ease.

Does Manak Homes have a team of trusted professionals?

Building new homes takes a team of trained professionals. Manak Homes has a trusted team of developers, architects, design consultants, and construction managers who are committed to deliver quality assured work, and make certain that all parties involved adhere to the schedule. At Manak Homes, our professional and experienced team deliver hassle free quality solutions to a construction project.

Does Manak Homes Offer Affordable options?

When it comes to designing new homes, Manak Homes takes pride in offering families more of what they want, and making it affordable too. Our packages are designed to guarantee that the end result produces   the highest quality home, at the most affordable price in compliance with the industry standards.

Planning Your Home Building Construction? You Need to Consider These Important Factors

Building your dream home is an exciting but potentially stressful process, particularly for first timers. It is therefore important to understand what your journey will entail before taking your first steps. Having a clear understanding of these steps can help make the experience more enjoyable.

Though the list of considerations may seem daunting at first, it is relatively straightforward when taking all the factors into account. We understand that there will be some challenges, excitement and frustration along the way, but our advice is to just go for it if you have the budget and vision to build your dream home.

Are you thinking about building a new home? If so, you’ll need to carefully plan the construction process to ensure a successful outcome. There are a lot of important factors to consider during the planning process. This guide provides an overview of what is involved.  We’ll go over some of the most important things to keep in mind when you’re planning your home construction.

  1. The first step: choosing the right location

Choosing the right location is one of the most important factors to consider. After all, you will want to choose a location that is convenient for you and your family. There are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing the right spot for your dream home. First, you’ll want to consider the location. Do you want to be in the city, the suburbs or the countryside? Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to choose the location that’s right for you.

  • Consider your commute: you will want to choose a location that is close to your work or school. This will save you time and money on your commute.
  • Consider the schools in the area: if you have children, you will want to choose a location that is close to good schools.
  • Consider the amenities in the area: you will want to choose a location that has the amenities that you and your family need.
  1. The second step: getting the necessary permits

There are a few things you need to do before you can legally build your dream home. The first is to obtain the necessary permits or licences and assume responsibility for complying with the building codes. All areas have specific building rules and regulations that must be followed, which are commonly referred to as building codes. These codes cover a wide range of topics, from material use to paint colour. You have to meet specific safety measures before construction can begin.

A building permit is a legal requirement and failing to obtain one can result in a fine. It also ensures that safe and legal construction materials, methods and techniques are used. Permits also safeguard the health, safety and welfare of the building’s occupants.

It is advisable to follow the necessary regulations in order to avoid any penalties that could potentially hinder your project’s progress. Applying for the required government approvals, following the right processes and abiding by all the rules are key in ensuring the success of your project. Although your contractor can handle all of this for you, it is beneficial to be aware of what is needed in order to avoid any surprises later on.

  1. The third step: choosing the right home builder

Now that you have a good sense of what you want in your new home and what kind of considerations you need to take into account, it’s time to find the right builder. After all, this is the person who will be turning your dreams into reality, so it’s important to choose someone you can trust and who has a good track record.

There are a few different ways to go about finding a builder. You can ask for recommendations from friends or family, you can search online or you can attend home shows. Once you have a few names, you can start doing your research.

When you’re looking into builders, you’ll want to consider their experience, their reputation and their cost. It’s also a good idea to look at their previous work to get a sense of the types of projects they undertake and their general construction standards.

  1. The fourth step: know your budget and stick to it

When it comes to your finances, it is important to know your budget and stick to it. This means being aware of your income and expenses, as well as setting aside money each month for savings. It can be difficult to stick to a budget, but there are a few tips that can help you out.

Some helpful tips for staying on budget include:

  • Make a list of your income and expenses
  • Determine how much you can realistically save each month
  • Set up a budget and track your progress
  • Make adjustments to your budget as needed
  • Have an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses

By following these tips, you can stay on track with your finances and reach your financial goals.

  1. The fifth step: picking the right materials

There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing construction materials. The most important factor is the intended use of the finished product. For example, if you are building a home, you will need different materials than if you are building a commercial office space. Other important factors to consider include the climate, the type of foundation you are working with and the budget.

  • Climate – The climate in the area where the construction will take place will dictate what type of materials can be used. For example, if you are building in an area with a lot of humidity, you will need to use materials that will not be damaged by moisture.
  • Type of foundation – The type of foundation you are working with will also dictate what type of materials can be used. For example, if you are working with a concrete foundation, you will need to use different materials.
  • Energy efficient – The materials you use to construct your home can have a significant impact on its energy efficiency. Using the right building materials can help you create an environmentally efficient home that will save you money in the long run. It is important to use the right amount of material and to select the most effective insulation materials that result in affordable energy bills.
  1. The sixth step: sustainability

When building a home, sustainability is an important factor to consider. Sustainable home design is becoming more prevalent as many homeowners look to reduce their carbon footprint. There are two major reasons for designing a sustainable home:

  • First: sustainable homes might be expensive, but in the long run they are more economical. You will save on your energy bills over the years.
  • Second: green and sustainable homes minimise waste and recycle materials, resulting in higher resale values.
  1. The seventh step: putting together a construction schedule

If you’re putting together a home construction schedule, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to clearly define the scope of the project. What exactly will be built? How big will it be? What materials will be used? Once you have a clear idea of the project, you can begin to create a timeline.

Next, you need to consider the weather. You don’t want to start construction during the rainy season, for example. And you’ll need to factor in holidays and other events that could potentially delay the project.

Finally, you need to get realistic estimates from the contractors you’re considering. Ask them how long they think the project will take and get a detailed breakdown of the costs. With all of this information, you can start to put together a realistic construction schedule.

  1. The eighth step: dealing with issues and setbacks

Unfortunately, building a new home is not always a smooth process. There are often issues and setbacks that can arise, which can delay the construction of your home or cause additional costs. However, it is important to remember that these issues are often just part of the process and should not be seen as a reason to give up on your dream home.

Some common issues you may encounter include:

  • Zoning issues
  • Permit problems
  • Contractor delays
  • Cost overruns

It is important to have a plan for dealing with each of these so that you can keep your homebuilding project on track. If you encounter any of these issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. With the right planning and preparation, you can build the home of your dreams.

  1. The eighth step: enjoy and celebrate your new home

Building your dream home takes a lot of work, but it’s one of the most rewarding experiences. With all the stress and hard work, your efforts are rewarded with a newly built home that’s personalised exactly to your lifestyle and design preferences.

If you have an upcoming project, which you want to build in a more sustainable way, Manak Homes would love to help.

Why Choose Manak Homes to build your dream home?

Since its inception in 2019, Manak Homes’ vision was to provide innovative home designs built on quality craftsmanship with exceptional attention to detail. Our notable project portfolio, excellent quality of service and proven ability to deliver turnkey construction projects within challenging timeframes have made us one of the most widely trusted and reputed home builder services in  London and the South East.

For more than three years, Manak Homes has remained committed to meeting the needs of its clients by providing high-quality, quick, reliable, innovative and durable construction projects as well as unparalleled customer service.

Manak Homes helps clients to get the best value for money projects, in the shortest time frame, with minimal hassle. From traditional homes to modern property developments, we have completed hundreds, and counting, of projects in the last few years to become a popular destination for clients in London and the South East.

With a vast amount of experience in the industry and a strong work ethic, we deliver outstanding and highly commended projects in London and the South East, and we are encouraged by the support and satisfaction of our clients.  Manak Homes is built on foundations of transparency, trust and outstanding customer service, which has seen the company receive the ‘Best Luxury Home 2019’ award for business excellence.

On time

As an experienced team of professional home builders, we are committed to ensuring your project is delivered on time. We provide clear deadlines and full project management to keep your build moving along efficiently.

Right cost

We make sure that we take your budget into account with every build we take on. By being upfront about all costs and providing detailed contingency plans, we aim to avoid any surprises along the way.

Quality craftsmanship

At our company, we are always striving for the highest level of quality in our products and services. Our team of skilled builders take great pride in their workmanship, and they are always looking for ways to improve and exceed industry standards. We are confident that our attention to detail and dedication to quality will continue to serve our clients well.

If you are looking for that extra level of personalisation to build your dream home, then Manak Homes is for you. Our expert team offers a bespoke, premium service providing you with total peace of mind. Contact us on 0203 871 2560 or email us at info@manakhomes.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to build a custom home?

It is important to note that the timeline for building a custom home can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the project. However, on average, the process takes approximately one year from the initial consultation to receiving the keys. There are a number of factors that contribute to this timeline, such as the design process, acquiring permits, site development and construction.

Manak Homes is proud to have a 100% success rate for on-time deliveries and will provide you with a detailed timeline so that you know what to expect throughout the process.

Can I change design when the build is in progress?

We will always do our best to accommodate any changes onsite, but it does depend on the complexity of changes you require. Our build manager will be in close communication with you and take your feedback on the progress of your project into account. We would also recommend attending one of our house tours so you can see how designs look in reality.

How long will it take for me to get the necessary permits?

Many construction projects require obtaining a permit, for which the homeowner is responsible.  However, how long it will take to get the necessary permits depends upon the size and complexity of the project.

Is it necessary to follow health and safety policies during the construction project?

Of course, before starting any construction project, it is crucial to consider health and safety concerns. All aspects of health and safety must be taken into account to ensure a safe work environment. This is especially important in construction work because the industry is inclined to hazardous situations and can be risky at times.

Who is involved in the construction of my dream home?

A building’s construction involves many professionals working together to meet the needs of the client. These construction professionals, including contractors and sub-contractors, are brought together for a specific project. Once the project is completed, these individuals typically go their separate ways.

What services do builders provide?

Builders generally offer roofing and guttering, extension and loft conversions, house refurbishment, landscaping and more.

What are my duties and responsibilities as a homeowner?

As a homeowner, you are responsible for developing a plan, defining the scope of your dream home project, setting up a budget and allocating the resources accordingly.

Why should we choose Manak Homes for our dream house?

When it comes to building homes in London and the South East, Manak Homes always execute their work to the highest level of professionalism using their network of skilled tradesmen.

The design and build process can be daunting, but with our professional advice on hand, you can rest assured that we go above and beyond to fulfill your needs. We will work with you from the initial design stage all the way through to construction, and once the project is completed, we will back it with years of warranty.

Am I able to visit some previous projects you have completed?

Manak Homes have executed some projects in London and the South East.  So, if you are living in the vicinity, we encourage you to visit our projects. You can then see for yourself the quality and details of our previous constructions.

How do we make design selections for our new home?

Our expert team at Manak Homes will help you every step of the way in designing your dream home. We will listen to your needs and transform your home ideas into visual reality.

How are payments managed?

We will prepare a detailed contract that will state the milestones for making the payments. However, the final payment will be required only once all work is completed.