Builders · Choosing and checking

Vetting clients and spotting scams

Customers are right to check builders. Builders can quietly do the same. A few checks help you spot problems early.

Information, not legal advice. This guide explains official rules in plain words for England, with links to the sources. Rules change and every job is different, so check the source or get advice for your situation. Last checked 24 October 2026.

Who is the client?

• Ownership. For property in England or Wales you can download a title register from HM Land Registry for a small fee, even if you do not own it (GOV.UK). It helps confirm you are dealing with the owner.
• Business clients, such as developers or landlord companies, can be checked free on Companies House: status, directors, filing history (GOV.UK).
• Leasehold flats may need the freeholder's consent for works (Citizens Advice). Ask before you start.

Permissions

If building regulations are not followed, the person doing the work can be prosecuted (GOV.UK). Do not start notifiable work without agreeing who is getting approval. Check planning and party wall points too. See permissions.

Warning signs in a client

• Pushing you to start before anything is in writing, or refusing to sign a contract.
• Insisting on cash so there is “no paperwork”.
• Reluctance to agree any deposit or stage payments for a large job.
• Asking you to ignore planning, building control or party wall rules.
• Lots of changes requested verbally, then pushed back on when invoiced.
• A history of falling out with several previous builders.

Payment scams

Some scams target businesses. Common patterns include an “overpayment” followed by a request to refund the difference, or a screenshot of a payment that never arrives. Treat money as received only when it has cleared in your account. Citizens Advice lists general signs of a scam, such as pressure to transfer money quickly and unusual payment methods (Citizens Advice). Report fraud to Report Fraud.

Time-wasters

Detailed design and pricing takes time. Some builders charge for surveys or design work, or put a short validity date on quotes. Be clear about this upfront.