Knowing how to avoid cowboy builders it's worth first knowing how a building is constructed.

Buildings are constructed in two main parts,the first being the Substructure,which consists of all building work below the ground level,including up to the damp proof course.This is known as the Primary Elements: Examples are foundations, brick walls,block walls,load bearing walls,floors,roofs and stairs,as these include the main parts of the building that provide support,protection,floor to floor access and the division of space.The purpose of the substructure is to spread the load of the building.

The second part is the Superstructure,which consists of all building work above the damp proof course and its purpose is to divide space and provide shelter.The elements that form the super structures can be divided into the foloowing sections as follows:

Secondary Elements: Examples are doors,windows,skirting and architraves as these include the non essential and non load bearing parts that are used to close off openings or to provide a finish.

Finishing Elements: Examples are painting,wallpaper,plaster and face brickwork which are the final parts required to complete a component and can be superficial or necessary to complete the build.

Services: These are the electrical,mechanical and specialist installations that are normally piped or wired into the building such as running water and electricity.

The next rule to follow is to be reminded that you require Planning Permission for most forms of development including virtually all new building work,house extensions,conservatories,loft conversions, roof additions such as dormers,buildings and other structures on the land including garages and adding a porch to your property.Planning laws were introduced to stop people building whatever they like wherever they like.The submission of a planning application gives both the local authority ad the public a chance to look at the development to see if it's in keeping with the local area and whether it serves the interests of the local community.

With planning permission come Building Regulations,to ensure that safe and healthy buildings are constructed for the public and enforce a minimum standard of building work and ensure that the materials used are of a good standard and fit for purpose and are enforced by 2 types of building control bodies which are Local Authority and Approved Inspector. If you wish to apply for approval,you must contact one of these.

Make sure that you have plans and in your contract agree Interim Payment: Known in the building trade / construction industry as stage payments.A payment schedule may be written into your contract,meaning that you the client pays for the work in stalments which you may pay an agreed amount each month linked to how the build has progressed or you may make regular payments regardless of how far the build has progressed.

Scalene Builders are bricklayers based in Warrington,Cheshire and offer building services such as Garden Walls,Home Extensions and new builds.