Home Improvements near me in Preston, Lancashire

On Yell, you can explore top-rated builders near you by browsing reviews, viewing photos of completed projects, and checking credentials.  

You can also post a free enquiry by providing a few simple project details, and wait to hear from local builders by phone or email. 

Look for builders who are members of trade associations like the National Federation of Builders (NFB) or the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), which ensures they meet industry standards.  

Builders in the UK generally charge between £25 and £50 per hour, with daily rates ranging from £150 to £300 depending on the complexity and location of the project.  

Larger-scale work, such as house extensions or structural renovations, may be priced as a package rather than hourly or daily.  

You should always request quotes from several builders to compare prices and make sure you’re getting good value for money. 

Reputable builders should have public liability insurance to cover damage to your property or injury caused during the project. If they employ workers, they’re legally required to have employer’s liability insurance, too.  

For major building work, it’s wise to check if the builder has contract works insurance, which covers projects under construction.  

In the early stages of hiring a builder, always ask for proof of insurance. If they are unwilling to confirm they’re covered and provide evidence of that, you should move ahead with more transparent professionals. 

For more in-depth information about hiring construction professionals, check out our builder hiring advice and tips. 

Yes, most builders registered for VAT will charge it on both labour and materials.  

The standard VAT rate in the UK is 20%, but certain projects, like new builds or specific renovations, may qualify for a reduced or zero VAT rate.  

For complete clarity, confirm with your builder whether VAT is included in the quote to avoid surprises. When speaking with builders, ask for detailed, written quotes that you can refer back to in the future.  

Technically, builders do not require a formal licence to operate, but there are certain qualifications and certifications that demonstrate experience and competence. These include: 

• NVQ or SVQ in Construction: recognised vocational qualifications 

• CSCS card: shows competency and health and safety knowledge for on-site work 

• Specialist licences: required for specific tasks, such as gas work (Gas Safe registration) or electrical installations (Part P certification). 

Need more hiring advice? Check out TrustMark’s top tips for finding trustworthy tradespeople in your area.  

In the UK, most builders offer free quotes for their services, but some may charge a small fee for extensive consultations or detailed project planning.  

Always ask upfront if a quote is free and get it in writing to understand the breakdown of costs. Free quotes are a good way to compare options and choose the right builder for your needs.  

The price you’re quoted is only one of several factors you should consider when hiring. Availability, experience, and payment terms all affect the value you’re being offered.