Practical starting points for planning your project and choosing a contractor you can trust.
Do I need planning permission?+
Requirements depend on the property, location and proposed work. Planning permission and building regulations approval are separate matters. Check with your local planning authority before work starts; listed buildings, conservation areas and leasehold properties may have additional requirements.
How are project payments arranged?+
Ask for a written stage payment schedule linked to clearly defined work. Do not pay the full contract value in advance. VFC’s payment stages and any deposit are agreed in the individual project contract.
What insurance and safety information should I request?+
Ask for current insurance relevant to the work, details of who will be on site, and the competence and qualifications of specialist trades. There is no single universal health and safety certificate for every building project. Agree site safety responsibilities before work begins.
Do you offer a free survey?+
Contact Vaildo to discuss an initial consultation and feasibility survey. Availability and whether specialist reports or investigations involve a separate charge will be confirmed before booking.
Which areas do you cover?+
Our main service area is London and Greater London. Our company history also includes commercial work in Bristol, Newcastle, Liverpool, Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester. Contact us about work further afield.
Can you help with housing association or leasehold requirements?+
Discuss landlord, freeholder and housing association approvals early. Their consent may be needed in addition to local authority permissions. The requirements and who handles each submission should be recorded in the project scope.
What happens if the scope changes?+
Ask for each change to be documented with its price and programme impact before authorising the additional work. Keep an agreed record throughout the project.
Is the work guaranteed?+
Ask for written workmanship guarantee terms, exclusions and any relevant manufacturer warranties for your specific project. Confirm what certification will be provided at handover.
No matching questions. Try a different phrase or contact us.
KEEP YOUR PROJECT ON SOLID GROUND
Contractor due diligence checklist.
Use these prompts before you appoint a builder. Tick items as you go, then print your checklist or save it as a PDF.
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PROPERTY CARE NOTES
Prepare your home for the colder months.
Windows & condensation
Condensation can have several causes. Moisture between double-glazed panes may indicate a failed sealed unit; moisture on the room side can relate to humidity and cold surfaces. Ask for an assessment before choosing repairs.
Heating & lighting
Unevenly heating radiators may need maintenance. Ask a qualified technician to investigate. Consider suitable LED lighting and use heating controls according to the system guidance.
Insulation & ventilation
Insulation upgrades should suit the building and its moisture conditions. Keep required ventilation clear; never seal combustion air vents. Have damp or persistent condensation assessed before covering it up.
General project information, not a property-specific survey. Confirm permissions and technical requirements with the relevant authority and qualified professionals.
