Many builders understand the advantages of becoming part of a national professional association. Not only can they use the association’s logo on their vehicle livery and marketing material, they benefit from the support and advice that the association can give them. In addition, they may be able to increase their business because prospective customers feel more comfortable with builders that have demonstrated their skill and commitment to customer service. In the UK, there are three main builders associations. Some builders may belong to one or more of these organisations. Remember that membership doesn’t automatically mean that this is the right builder for you, and you should still follow the basic steps for hiring a builder when you begin your project. You should also bear in mind that many good builders have chosen not to be part of an association and that their work may be of equally high quality. The Federation of Master Builders The Federation of Master Builders (FMB) claims to be the building industry’s largest trade organisation, representing over 13,000 small and medium-sized companies across the UK. It has strict entry criteria, and members are expected to work to a code of conduct that includes standards for customer services as well as the building work itself. Members are encouraged to improve their standards and the FMB supports them in this. In addition, they can supply a contract for builders and consumers to use, and can help with dispute resolution should any problems occur during the project. The Guild of Builders and Contractors The Guild of Builders and Contractors (GBC) is a relatively recent addition to the builders association market, having been formed in 1992. Founded by 14 builders, the Guild’s aim is to create an association of reputable firms and individual contractors who are experienced, knowledgeable and trade with integrity. They want to keep the membership fee as low as possible compared with other trade organisations, and also operate a Code of Conduct to which all members must conform. This code includes ensuring that builders work within the law, that they inform clients of the exact work to be done, that they agree a price and provide a contract and that they maintain their skills and knowledge. The National Federation of Builders The National Federation of Builders (NFB) claims to be the construction industry’s longest-established association, having grown out of various organisations founded in the 19th century. It also boasts some of the most stringent entrance criteria of any of the builders associations, including references from suppliers, accountants and other construction professionals such as architects or surveyors. Once the references have been checked, the application is put before a panel, which assess the builder’s work before approval. As with all professional associations, the NFB has a Code of Conduct to which it expects its members to work. It encourages the use of a plain English contract between builders and their clients and helps with dispute resolution. The first step in your project is to hire the right builder. Use www.findalocal-builder.co.uk to get a list of builders in your area, and then look at our other advice articles to see how to make sure you choose the best builder for you. |