How do I find a reliable builder?

Ask for recommendations, check insurance and registrations, look at past work and reviews, and get itemised written quotes.

How many builders should I get quotes from?

Three is a sensible rule of thumb. Give each the same brief so you can compare like for like.

What should I check before hiring a builder?

Insurance, registration for regulated work, company details, reviews and examples of similar recent jobs.

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How to find a good builder near you

By the GlowUpp team · 27 October 2026

A tired grey house front next to an AI redesign with white render and a navy front door

BeforeAfter‹›

An AI-generated example. Real results depend on your own space.

Finding a good builder is the most important decision in a project. The best ones are often busy, so it pays to start looking early and to check them properly.

Where to start

Ask friends, neighbours and colleagues who have had similar work done, and ask to see it.
Ask other trades you trust, such as your plumber or electrician.
Look for local builders with recent photos and reviews.
Use a platform that lets you share your plans and compare quotes.

Decide what kind of builder you need

A small repair, a loft conversion and a full extension need different skills. Ask whether they have done work like yours and can show it.

Check before you hire

Insurance certificates, including public liability.
Registrations, such as Gas Safe for gas work.
Company details on Companies House if they trade as a company.
Reviews on more than one site, and a look at past work.

Get written quotes

Give each builder the same brief, ask for itemised quotes and compare what is included. Our guides on getting three quotes and comparing them explain how.

Ask about availability and timing

Good builders are often booked weeks or months ahead. A builder who can start tomorrow is not necessarily a bad sign, but ask why.

Agree everything in writing

Agree the price, payments, start and finish dates and how changes are handled before the work starts, and keep copies.

Warning signs

No written quote or a vague one.
Pressure to decide today or pay a large amount up front.
No insurance or reluctance to show it.
No address, only a mobile number.

Share your plan with local professionals

On GlowUpp you can upload a photo, see a redesign and share it with local professionals as your brief. It is free for homeowners. Always ask a qualified professional before moving gas, electrics or plumbing, or changing anything structural, and check your lease or local rules if you rent or live in a conservation area.

See your own exterior redesigned

Upload a photo and see AI-generated ideas in about two minutes. Free for homeowners, no sign-up needed to start.

Try it with your photo

Common questions

How do I find a reliable builder?: Ask for recommendations, check insurance and registrations, look at past work and reviews, and get itemised written quotes.
How many builders should I get quotes from?: Three is a sensible rule of thumb. Give each the same brief so you can compare like for like.
What should I check before hiring a builder?: Insurance, registration for regulated work, company details, reviews and examples of similar recent jobs.