As a chartered builder who works directly with homeowners, I have observed that many domestic clients do not distinguish between a CIOB member and an unregulated builder.
In fact, most homeowners assume that all builders are the same and do not seek the value of working with a qualified professional. This is a significant issue that needs to be addressed.
There are no statistics on the number of chartered professionals working in domestic building. However, in my experience, the number seems relatively small and there is a real lack of awareness among homeowners about the value of hiring a CIOB member.
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One of the most common issues I encounter when talking to clients about the benefits of working with a chartered builder is their focus on price over professionalism.
Professionalism assured
While it is understandable that clients want to keep costs down, it is important to educate them about the risks of using an unqualified builder: poor workmanship, unexpected costs and potential legal issues. By using a CIOB member, clients can be assured of professionalism, which can save time and money in the long run, while reducing risks throughout.
Interestingly, homeowners seem to place emphasis on the qualifications of architects when choosing professionals for building projects, but this is not always the case with builders. This highlights a need for better education about the benefits of working with a chartered builder.
Last year my company built a contemporary new-build family home for a very risk-averse and budget-conscious domestic client. Rather than strip away the character of the build through heavy-handed value engineering, I identified that the key to maintaining a high-end finish on a budget would require deeper collaboration with the client, a flexible specification and a lot of trust.
The project was administered on a ‘cost-plus’ basis and by using CIOB’s Code of Practice as a framework for process and project management. The family home was delivered on time and budget, even through a tough period of inflation. The client was left in no doubt of the value added by using a chartered builder.
How do we educate domestic clients about the benefits of using qualified professional builders? This could include wider promotion, greater regulation and legislation to ensure that homeowners are protected. Additionally, we must address the perception that professionalism only applies to architects or consultants.
By emphasising the value of working with qualified builders, we can help to raise standards and ensure clients receive the high-quality workmanship and project management they deserve.
Alex Walker MCIOB runs his own building company, APM Walker Construction.
