Spotting the Cowboys
Cowboy Builders
Cowboy Builders are still out there, you only have to watch National television to prove this. Fensa have provided a list of important tell tale signs that the company you maybe dealing with is disreputable.
References
Cowboys will try to avoid giving any details regarding any previous jobs they have undertaken.
Contracts
Cowboys will always try to avoid putting pen to paper, they may try to suggest that a contract is not needed
Cheap Deals
Cowboys may try to overwelm you with cheap ” Must buy today ” offers so that you pay a deposit straight away
VAT
Cowboys will offer you VAT free deals if cash is paid.
Time Frames
Cowboys may not agree on time frames or finishing dates. ” As things may crop up”
Competition
Cowboys may be underhand and try to citicise all their competitors.
Premises
Cowboys will provide minimum contact details ie Mobile no only. A reputable company should have business cards with all details on ie Landline Tel no, business address etc.
Start straight away
Cowboys generally say they are able to start work immediately. Good and reputable companies will usually have work already booked in because they are in constant demand.
Giving confidence
Cowboys are not usually upto speed with current Building or Planning Regulations, If the the contractor does not give you that feeling of confidence you are wise to steer clear
