Cash for Slapdash

In a recent research project by The Federation of Master Builders, it was discovered that, in 2011, homeowners had been conned out of over £260 million by unscrupulous builders who left these homeowners with poorly completed jobs.  Almost half (48%) of homeowners are laying themselves open to shoddy workmanship, by paying builders in cash, in an attempt to avoid VAT.  What can a homeowner do to protect themselves?

• always use a reputable builder
  • ask for recommendations from friends and family
  • use the FMB Find a Builder service
• generally avoid builders who approach you, particularly those who turn up on your doorstep
• avoid builders who suggest that they will do the work for cash
• look at their website to check for client recommendations
• look at their website to see examples of their previous work

It is also worth signing the Cut the VAT petition to ask that the government cut the VAT from 20% to 5% on home improvements and renovations – this would save homeowners £150 on every £1000 worth of work done.