Paying for a Building Project: What to Expect

Why We’re Talking About Payment Terms

When talking to customers and booking new jobs, one of the first things we get asked about is payment terms – “When do we pay?”, “How does payment work?”. Trusting someone with your home is a big decision, so making sure everything is clear and transparent from the start is important.

This guide breaks down exactly how our payment process works for every job, regardless of size, so that you know exactly what to expect when starting a building project with us.

If you’re still in the early stages, you may also want to read our guide on starting a new building project, too.

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How Our Payment Process Works

In the initial stages, we will provide a breakdown of costs and timeframes, which will then be used during the payment process should you wish to go ahead. We work to a clear weekly schedule. As long as there are no external delays (such as weather or material deliveries), we aim to complete the planned tasks for that week. Once the week is up, we will meet with you to confirm you are happy with what has been achieved and go over anything you may want to discuss. You will then receive an invoice for only what has been completed up to that point. If we are ahead of schedule, the invoice will reflect that; vice versa, if we fall behind. This way, you only ever pay for the work that has been done – no hidden charges.

We won’t ever ask for a deposit, nor will we blindside you with a huge final bill. We believe in equal, manageable payments that are fair for the work we’ve carried out. And this is true for all our projects, regardless of whether you’re starting a brand-new timber frame extension or doing a simple kitchen renovation. Once your project has been completed, we will meet with you a final time to ensure you are happy with everything, sign the project off and issue you with the final payment.

If building control, surveyors or structural engineers are required, most likely on larger jobs, this will be made clear from the outset and will be worked into your quote if this is something you require our help with.

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Why We Work This Way

We work this way for one reason – it keeps things fair. Whilst many builders ask for a large sum upfront, we believe smaller, weekly payments keep things manageable and equal for both sides. Our weekly schedule gives us a plan to work towards and gives you the security of knowing exactly what you’re paying for each week. Not only does this help us stay organised but it also allows you to budget more confidently and be on top of where your money is going.

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What to Expect from Elmtree

As soon as you have confirmed you are happy to go ahead, we will provide you with a project information pack. This will include a final quote breakdown, a schedule of works and our terms & conditions. We will give you some time to read through and double-check that you are happy with everything we have discussed before signing. Once this is done, the work will begin according to the schedule. As mentioned above, provided there is nothing that slows the schedule down, the work will be carried out in accordance with what we have agreed and payment will be expected at the end of each week for said work.

We will never charge anything that hasn’t been discussed. If circumstances change or you request amendments along the way, we’ll talk it through during our weekly meeting and agree on any adjustments before moving forward.

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Got Questions? Let’s Chat

We understand that starting a new project can be a big commitment, so you want to make sure your money is going to someone trustworthy. If you’re planning a project and want to talk things through, you can get in touch for a free visit and a no-obligation quote today.

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