The Build Blog
Practical guides, cost breakdowns, and expert tips for UK homeowners planning a construction project.
How to Avoid Cowboy Builders: The Complete UK Guide
Spot rogue builders before it's too late. 15 red flags, vetting checklist, and how MyBuildAlly's quote analysis protects you from cowboy builders.
Rogue Builders: How to Spot Them Before You Sign
10 warning signs of a cowboy builder, how to vet tradespeople properly, and your legal protections. Practical guide for UK homeowners.
Building Contracts for Homeowners: JCT, FMB & When You Need One
For projects over £20,000 you should use a formal building contract. Here's which type to choose, what it covers, and why a quote alone isn't enough.
UK Construction Glossary: 20 Terms Every Homeowner Should Know
Plain-English definitions of provisional sum, prime cost, practical completion, retention, snagging, and 15 more construction terms homeowners need to understand.
Your Consumer Rights: What to Do When Building Work Goes Wrong
Know your rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015. What to do about poor quality work, overcharging, abandoned projects, and builder disputes.
Practical Completion: What It Means and What to Check
Practical completion marks when building work is substantially done. Here's what it means for homeowners, what to inspect, and when to release final payment.
Snagging Guide: How to Inspect Your New Build or Extension
A snagging inspection catches defects before you accept the finished work. Here's how to do it yourself with a room-by-room checklist.
Stage Payments and Retention: When to Pay Your Builder
How to structure stage payments for building work and why retention matters. Protect your money with a sensible payment schedule that keeps your builder motivated.
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