Pre-Build Preparation Checklist

A JCT Minor Works or homeowner contract covering scope, price, payment schedule, timeline, variations, and defects liability. Not just a quote.

Stage payments linked to milestones. Never more than the value of completed work. Retain 5–10% until snagging is resolved.

Current public liability (minimum £2m) and employers liability insurance. Take copies.

If required — confirm whether your project needs Building Regulations approval and that the builder or architect has submitted the application.

If required — confirm the approval letter is received and any conditions are understood. Pin a copy to the site notice board.

If the work affects a shared wall, boundary, or excavation within 3–6 metres of a neighbour. Notices must be served 1–2 months before work starts.

Tell your insurer renovation work is happening. Some policies require notification or have exclusions during building work. Get written confirmation of continued cover.

For flats or shared access: photograph communal areas before work starts. Avoids disputes about damage.

Remove furniture, personal items, wall art, curtains, and anything fragile. The more you clear, the faster the build and the less risk of damage.

Dust travels. Cover carpets in adjacent rooms with dust sheets. Seal doorways with plastic sheeting if possible.

The builder needs to know where to isolate water, gas, and electrics. Label them clearly and test that they work.

A skip will need a permit (£30–£65 from the council). Check if a parking bay suspension is needed for deliveries. Tell neighbours about skip placement.

If practical: a space for the builders to take breaks, boil a kettle, use a toilet. This keeps them happy and your main living space cleaner.

If your kitchen or bathroom is being renovated: set up a temporary cooking area (microwave, kettle, toaster) and confirm temporary bathroom arrangements.

Lock away jewellery, documents, and small electronics. Not because builders steal — because insurance companies ask.

Clear access paths. Move plant pots, garden furniture, and bikes out of the way. Protect anything that cannot be moved.

London council permitted hours are typically Monday–Friday 8am–6pm, Saturday 8am–1pm. Confirm and agree with neighbours.

A friendly letter or card explaining what is happening, how long it will last, and your contact details. Small gesture, big difference.

Who lets the builder in? Will they have a key? Alarm codes? Set clear expectations about security.

Daily update? Weekly meeting? WhatsApp group? Agree how progress, problems, and decisions will be communicated.

Photograph every room, wall, floor, and ceiling before work starts. Time-stamped photos on your phone are sufficient. This is your evidence if disputes arise.

One place for the contract, drawings, quotes, certificates, photos, and correspondence. Google Drive, Dropbox, or a physical folder.

You will be asked to make choices (tiles, taps, paint colours) during the build. Agree upfront who decides, how quickly, and what happens if you are slow.

Plastic sheeting, zip doors, or temporary partitions. Dust from demolition gets everywhere without proper barriers.

Building sites are dangerous. Open floorboards, exposed wires, power tools. Keep children and pets away from the work area at all times.

Noise from demolition and power tools makes it impossible to take calls. Have a backup plan for noisy days.

Dust, noise, strangers in your home, limited kitchen and bathroom, disrupted routine. It is temporary. Focus on the result.