Whatever the nature of work required it is always advisable to obtain several detailed written quotes and not just "a rough guide". A good tradesman will give you a detailed quote for both their & your benefit.

Be aware of the legal requirements you must fulfill when having major improvements done. A good tradesman will be able to advise & help you obtain the correct information, or take a look at the Local Authority Building Control website as a starting point.

Draw up a written contract, with an agreed timetable that both you and the tradesman are happy with.

Help your tradesman understand your requirements using illustrations & detailed information where appropriate. Show them magazine pictures of similar projects. Make sure you fully understand every step. A professional tradesperson should explain things clearly to ensure that there are no nasty surprises! If you're unhappy about the work, talk to your tradesperson immediately. Most things can be amended before they are finished.

Keep tabs on how the job is going, if it's complicated; arrange a regular half-hour with your tradesperson on agreed days. If you have personal requirements, such as no radios or smoking, or you'd rather not share your toilet or kitchen facilities, make sure that these are known before the job begins. Always discuss how the tradesmans rubble will be disposed of, and when.

If you do encounter difficulties mid-way:

• Be realistic
• Companies aren't mind readers, if your project is not going to plan you must spell it out and explain what you do want
• Talk to the 'main person'
• Telling sub-contractors to change things mid-operation will not only cause problems within the team but also confuse everyone as to what it is you really want

We charge companies a set small administration fee for joining our directory. The fee covers our extensive checking criteria. A companies listing will be seen as pending during this checking period (usually 48hrs). A company failing to meet our strict checking criteria will be removed immediately. Our loyalty is always with you the consumer.

Whilst every endeavour is taken to ensure the tradesperson meets our strict criteria. We recognise that disputes may arise. We are dependent on your feedback and welcome your comments and will remove any tradesperson who we deem to be providing a service not to the standard we require.