10 questions to ask your contractor before you sign

Buying a new-build house is an exciting milestone — and one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make. Many people focus on the visible details: how spacious the living room is, what the kitchen finishes look like, whether the sofa will fit in the corner. But there is something even more important than any of that: the reliability of the contractor. If the build is not carried out by a precise, honest and experienced contractor, a dream home can turn into a nightmare — with delays, hidden defects and unexpected costs. That is exactly why it matters to make a well-informed decision before you sign.

Here are the ten key questions worth asking before you commit to a purchase.

1. What references does the company have?

This is the first and perhaps the most important question. Look at the projects they have delivered before and, if possible, visit those buildings in person. Better still, get in touch with previous buyers and ask how satisfied they were with the process and with their finished home. You can find our references here.

2. How long has the business been operating?

Companies that have been trading for longer are generally more stable, more reliable and more experienced. That does not mean a new company cannot be good, but you are more likely to avoid risk if you are not paying a deposit to a freshly founded business.

3. What technical specification can I expect?

This is where most misunderstandings arise. Ask for a detailed written specification setting out exactly:

• what type of windows and doors will be installed,
• what insulation will be used,
• which floor and wall finishes and sanitary ware are included in the price,
• and what heating system the home will run on.

Anything that is not put in writing is hard to enforce later.

4. Can the floor plans, finishes and fittings be changed?

If you want to tailor your home to your own taste from the outset, clarify what changes are possible — and what they cost. Some contractors are flexible; others only let you choose from a standard package.

5. What energy rating will the property have?

This is not only a question of sustainability but of money. A house rated A++ or AA costs far less to run in the long term and is a more durable investment. Ask whether there will be solar panels, a heat pump or other modern solutions.

6. What warranty do they offer?

For a new-build home a warranty is required by law, but it matters exactly what it covers (structure, finishes, building services) and for how long (a minimum of 3 years, but often 5 or more).

It is also worth knowing how defects are put right: is there a fault-reporting system, and how quickly do they respond?

7. How is the payment schedule structured?

The safest arrangement is one where payment is tied to construction milestones and you are not required to pay the full amount up front. Anything else means taking on risk — particularly if the build slips or other problems arise.

8. When can turnkey completion and the occupancy permit be expected?

Deadlines always matter — especially if you also have to sell your current home or are moving out of rented accommodation. Make sure the contract also covers the terms for delay: is there a penalty, and what does the contractor undertake if the schedule slips?

9. What exactly does the “base price” include?

Don’t be taken in by a tempting low price if you then have to pay extra for everything. Ask whether:

• the fence, floor finishes and painting are included,
• garden landscaping and a parking space come with it,
• any individual choices are included.

10. What happens if I want to change something during the build?

You may well change your mind during construction — you might want different tiles, or to move a wall. It helps to know from the start on what terms such changes can be requested and what they will cost.

Buying a new-build property is a long-term decision that calls for information and awareness. Ask the questions above and you can spare yourself a great deal of trouble — and end up not just with a good-looking house, but with a home that genuinely works, comfortably and safely.