FAQs & BLOG

Advice & Guides

Practical, plain-English advice on planning, costs and building a domestic extension or renovation. Written by a Suffolk builder who works alongside local architects, our guides explain what to expect at each stage, so you can plan with confidence and avoid costly surprises.

Getting started.

  • Every project is different, so the honest answer depends on the size, design and specification. We start with a ballpark estimate, based on our experience of similar projects, so you can decide whether to go ahead before commissioning detailed designs. You can also try our project cost calculator for a quick starting point.

  • It is an early, honest view of the likely cost range for your project, together with the things that could move the figure up or down. It helps you make decisions with your eyes open, before committing to detailed designs.

  • Get in touch by phone or email and we will arrange a conversation, either at your home or online. There is no pressure and no obligation. We simply want to understand what you want to achieve.

  • Both. We are happy to work with your chosen architect or designer, and we work regularly with a number of local practices.

Cost and payment.

  • Once your design is defined, we provide a fixed cost for the work. A phased budget then sets out when costs will fall due across the project, so you can plan your finances with confidence.

  • When specifications, or conditions change, the budget can also change. We agree any but changes with you, in writing, before work goes ahead, keeping you in control of your budget at every stage.

  • We invoice a small deposit on signup to secure your place in our overall schedule. From that point, invoices are raised by agreed schedule and on completion of defined stages or phases of work. Phases are often aligned with building control inspections, so you’re only ever paying for work which has been delivered and reviewed.

During the build.

  • We agree a programme with you before work starts and keep you updated as it progresses.

  • You’ll get to know our team by name, and you’ll always know what’s happening and why. Our easy-to-use online project portal gives you instant access to site photos, daily logs, the latest project documents (such as change orders and invoices), and a schedule updated weekly. We’re also always ready to meet and talk whenever you’d like — keeping you informed is always a priority.

  • Often, yes, depending on the scope of the work. We discuss this at the start and plan the build around you and your family. Projects can be phased, dust-proof temporary walls can separate the work area from your living space, and temporary kitchens can be installed to keep you up and running at critical moments. If a particular stage makes staying impractical, we’ll tell you early so you can plan ahead.

  • If you have an architect, they will usually handle planning permission on your behalf. Building control inspections, which are a legal requirement on most projects, are carried out by either your local authority or a private building control company, and your architect will often arrange that appointment too. If you don’t have an architect, we can advise you and manage the planning process, the building control appointment and the inspections for you.

About us.

  • We are based in Bury St Edmunds and work across Suffolk, including Newmarket, Cambridge, Sudbury, Stowmarket and Thetford.

  • No. We work on residential projects only, so that every home gets our full attention.

  • We hold full employers and public liability insurance, along with contractor’s all risks insurance to cover every project we undertake. Let us know if you’d like to see our certificates.