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Santa knows what it's like having the builders in |
| Date: 05/12/07 |
With the help of the FMB’s builders, we have compiled a list of suggested Christmas gifts to ease the strain for families, friends and neighbours as they deal with the upheaval of having building work done.
Top of the list of useful presents for those about to embark on building work were a camper stove, patio heater, microwave or slow cooker. Other kitchen gifts included a mini freezer – and a few suggested tea bags. They have to be ‘Make Mine a Builders’ brand of course.
Although FMB builders try hard to keep dirt to a minimum, it’s useful to have an industrial hoover, extra dustpan and brushes, a yard brush and an extra bin or two to help keep on top of the additional dust and dirt.
Inside the house, interior design ideas and home magazine subscriptions can help the homeowners consider the options before the builder asks for a final decision on door knobs or coving.
Ear defenders and a large bottle of bubble bath are one option, but a weekend away, theatre or exhibition tickets and days out will be greatly appreciated by those who are living through building work.
Children and pets can often hamper progress for busy builders, so another kind Christmas gesture is to offer to have the children or family dog to stay for a while, at a key time in the build, such as during plastering or when windows are being taken out.
Many homeowners like to add their own finishing touches once the builder has finished, so gifts of decorating kits, brushes or even offering to help with a day’s painting may be much appreciated.
Research commissioned by the FMB found that one of the biggest bugbears for builders was not being thanked for a job well done. It’s worth remembering that builders love grateful gestures. People leave Christmas gifts for the milkman, postman and paperboy – so don’t forget the builder too.
The FMB’s top stress busters in preparation for building work- Check that your builders are members of a trade association like the Federation of Master Builders (FMB).
- Provide a detailed specification and make sure the builder’s price covers everything
- Draw up a written contract, detailing payment terms and dates. A standard form contract can be downloaded free of charge from the FMB website www.findabuilder.co.uk.
- Completely clear the building area
- Ensure children and pets are kept away from the building area
- If you don’t want builders sharing your toilet or kitchen, make other arrangements
- Let your neighbours know what you are having done and when it will start
- Seek any necessary permissions
- If you are unhappy talk to your builder as soon as you can
- Make sure you are on hand for any further decisions
- Once you are happy with the work, pay them promptly
HomeBuilding and Renovating Shows
National Show - NEC Birmingham - 10 – 13 April 2008
Scotland – SECC Glasgow 17-18 May 2008
Newbury – Newbury Showground 28-29 June 2008
London ExCel 19 –21 September 2008
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