Question 1

What happens during a consultation?

Accepted Answer

We meet you at the property and walk through it with you, pointing out structural issues, defects, renovation potential, and anything else a builder would spot. We answer your questions in plain English and give you realistic cost and timeline estimates. It's a verbal consultation - informal but thorough.

Question 2

Do you provide a written report?

Accepted Answer

No, our consultations are verbal. We're not surveyors - we're builders giving you practical, on-the-spot advice. If you need a formal structural report for mortgage purposes, you'll need a RICS surveyor. But if you want honest, builder's-eye insight, that's what we do.

Question 3

How is Bring a Builder different from a surveyor?

Accepted Answer

A RICS surveyor produces a formal written report, often for mortgage or legal purposes. We're builders, not surveyors. We walk the property with you in person and give you practical, builder's-eye advice on the spot - what's structurally sound, what needs work, what it's likely to cost and what to watch out for. It's faster, more affordable and often more useful before you make an offer. If you need a formal survey for your mortgage, you'll still need a RICS surveyor, but many clients use us alongside or before that stage.

Question 4

How far do you travel?

Accepted Answer

We're based in Stamford and cover a wide radius including Rutland, Lincolnshire, Peterborough, Grantham, Oakham, Bourne and Market Deeping. The first 15 miles are included in the consultation price. Beyond that, travel fees apply: £40 (15–25 miles), £70 (25–40 miles), £100 (40–60 miles), and £150 (60+ miles). Get in touch if you're unsure whether we cover your area.

Question 5

Can you give exact quotes for work?

Accepted Answer

We'll give you realistic ballpark figures based on our experience, but these aren't formal quotes. If you decide to go ahead with work, you'd need to get detailed quotes from contractors. We're here to help you understand what you're looking at before you commit.

Question 6

What if I'm buying a listed building?

Accepted Answer

We have extensive experience with period and listed properties. We understand traditional construction, conservation requirements, and the challenges of working with heritage buildings. We can advise on what's feasible, what permissions you'll need, and how to approach repairs sympathetically.

Question 7

Do you do the building work yourself?

Accepted Answer

No - we're independent consultants, not contractors. We don't take on building projects from consultations. That's what keeps our advice impartial. If you need builders after your consultation, we can point you in the right direction, but we won't be quoting for the work ourselves.

Question 8

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Use the booking form on our website or email us directly at hello@bringabuilder.co.uk. Let us know the property address, your preferred date/time, and whether you need a 1-hour or 2-hour consultation. We'll confirm availability and send you booking details.

Question 9

What should I prepare before the consultation?

Accepted Answer

Just bring any questions you have and access to the property. If you have architectural drawings, planning docs, or a survey report, feel free to bring them - but it's not essential. The main thing is being there so we can walk the property together.

Frequently Asked Questions