18th June 2008 ---- The Property Owners Directory (POD) has issued 10 tips for homeowners on how to get the most from tradesmen, as recent reports reveal a dearth of recommended tradesmen in the marketplace. Data released by lenders and UK training bodies has revealed that some areas of the UK have a chronic shortage of tradesmen, and only 4 % of companies across the country are taking on new apprentices.

Andy Stern, founder of the POD, said: “It is becoming increasingly clear there is a serious shortage of good tradesmen, and a worrying shortage of skills training, so that there is no new blood in the marketplace. This situation is leaving the market open to cowboy tradesmen who will get a foot in the door and provide shoddy work for homeowners desperate to find a tradesman for repairs or improvements.”

The POD recommends that property owners get work done now or get in touch with recommended builders and book them in for September when they traditionally become busier.

“After 17 years as a property investor, I have learnt, sometimes the hard way, that it’s not worth trying to cut corners.” says Andy, “If you follow the POD’s top ten tips for dealing with builders, you will significantly reduce the problems you face.”

Ask for at least three quotations and compare the prices. Don’t necessarily go for the cheapest or the most expensive.

Ask for references. A reputable tradesmen will be happy to provide references from previous clients or a fellow trade professional. The POD gives higher profile to tradesmen who have supplied 2 references from clients or who have been recommended by a landlord. Follow up these references.

Ask if they are registered with a professional association. If they claim to be, check with the association to make sure.

Request detailed written quotes. If you can produce a relatively detailed works specification, with a list of all the works that you want done, this will help your builder to produce a detailed quote including details of site clearance, labour costs and material supply and costs.

Work with your builder. When you have engaged your builder, work with them, and keep a note of all the instructions you give and the payments you make. Two people may interpret a specification in different ways, so if there is a miscommunication, you can be clear on what you asked for.

Be clear. Establish before you start who is to be responsible for removing any rubbish and tidying up after the work.

Ask for details of payments. At times, your builder will need advance payments to cover the cost of buying materials, but you should always ask them to put in writing how much money they need and what for, and ensure that staged payments do reflect the work completed.

Ask to see an insurance policy. Your builder should have public liability insurance cover to protect you and the public in the event of an accident.

Ask for a warranty. You can expect some kind of guarantee or warranty from your builder. Don’t be afraid to ask what they will provide.

Look local. If you establish a relationship with someone local to you, they can be available for emergency call-outs. The POD provides a search engine which will search for tradesmen in your area.