Streetlife

Hi Emma try and find someone that gives u the confidence. The sad thing is local builders quotes are high and don't always give a good job and when the ones that have recently migrated to the uk will quote low to get the job but you won't get a fine job. How big is the extension u want? Try getting a project manager

Hello Emma Y, it is easy to get a good building job as there are pre defined and meticulous steps that you must take so ensure that you remain in control and take the hassle out of the process.
Most people get into trouble because they don't fully understand the relationship between cost, quality and time.

I am a chartered architect and set up Siproj architecture in March 2000. Please contact me if you need anymore information.
Regards

Igho Tabor RIBA chartered architect,
Siproj Architect
www.siproj.co.uk
07792781971

Hi Emma

We used Doran Bros. (based on Trinity Rd nr. Tooting Bec) very reliable and reasonable. They did a loft conversion and kitchen extension for us 4yrs ago. They recommend people you can visit whom they have d

..sorry..done work for so you get genuine feedback!

My advice is to use your own independent architect and they will protect you from the dodgy builders who exploit their client's lack of knowledge. There are a lot of them! There are recommendation on here but also go to the RIBA website for help and info. Inform yourself as much as possible.

I can recommend a great building company :D2D projects. I have used them and found them to be very thorough and their work is of a high standard. Look on their website at the Worple rd case study.
Slavo Kysel
Company: D2D Projects
Phone: 0800 977 52 56
www.d2dprojects.co.uk
slavo@d2dprojects.co.uk
For a good architect call:
Neill Brown
Company: Valiant Architecture
Phone: 07961 093 570

Hi Emma Y

I am an architect and have worked with D2D also as shelley hj. If you need any help with general advice, planning permissions, other builders quotes or project management, feel free to contact me for a chat, as i have worked extensively in borough.

James Owen Webster
BA Hons / Dip Arch

m: 07941 692 625
t:  020 3654 5357
a:  66a Oakhurst Grove East Dulwich London SE22 9AQ
w:  jamesowenwebster.com

I recommend you call Neill Brown
Valiant Architecture
07961 093 570

My friend has just had his done by prime renovations . 07900 242832 www.primerenovation.com really nice English chaps.

Hi Emma,
I suggest you speak to George Simonds-Gooding of QSG Development Building Contractors. They are local and specialise in extensions He is currently doing a side return extension in the Balham Area. He will give references and prides himself on always being on time and on Budget. I have told him about your request. His no. is: 07747 635126

Hi Emma

I am with Helen B in recommending Doran brothers who did our side return about 8 years ago and our loft conversion a couple of years ago. The end price was exactly as quoted and they were completely to schedule. Finton who project manages is very responsive, and whenever there were problems with plumbing or electrics he always sorted them out promptly.

Hello Emma, I have just recommended Toppers Ltd to another Streetlifer. They did my kitchen and loft conversion. They were very efficient and did a great job. Their references were impressive too. You can contact Charlie on 077 405 10940. Good luck.

Hi Emma,
 
We are having such an extension built just now in Tooting Graveney. The main problem we had so far is that Wandsworth Building Control, who had approved the original design for the foundations, during their site visit (after digging the foundations, but before pooring in the concrete) noticed that there was silt in the trenches (rather than clay only, as one would assume based on the soil map of the area). As a result of this we were asked to re-design the foundations - fill up the trenches again and do a 'piled raft' instead (basically a concrete slap with 6 m long concrete piles that have to be drilled by a specialised contractor). This is adding quite a bit to our bill and resulted in two months delay. Therefore our advice: Consider doing a soil test before you finalise the foundation design, to see whether piles might be required. We are very happy with our local architect and builder (so far...) - let me know if you want me to get in touch again when we are done.

Best, Barbara