Builder has no written contract: should you start work?
Get the scope, price, programme, payments and responsibilities in writing before substantial work starts. A contract can exist even without a signed document, but a vague verbal agreement leaves both homeowner and builder struggling to prove what was included when something changes.
What should be written down?
The legal names and contact details of both parties and the site address.
The dated drawings, specification, quotation, exclusions and any agreed alternatives.
Start and completion arrangements, access, occupation, protection and working hours.
Price, allowances, deposit, stage payments, variations and final account method.
Insurance, subcontractors, inspections, certificates, defects and dispute process.
Use a contract form suited to domestic work rather than a collection of contradictory emails. The JCT Home Owner forms distinguish a project with an appointed consultant to oversee work from one without. The right form and responsibilities depend on your actual arrangement. Build Advocate’s advisory review does not automatically make it the contract administrator.
Already paid a deposit?
Do not assume there is no contract merely because nobody signed a document. Citizens Advice explains that accepting a quote, setting a date or paying a deposit can form a contract. Gather the quote, messages, payment proof and any terms before deciding whether to cancel or demand a new price. If there is a dispute over rights or cancellation, obtain legal advice.
Already started?
Write a dated record of the scope and price both parties believe they agreed. List any disputed work separately. Agree how new changes will be ordered and valued from now on. Photograph progress and track payments against completed stages. An after-the-fact document should reflect what was actually agreed rather than quietly rewriting it.
Do not let urgency erase the basics
A builder may be ready next week, but unanswered questions about structural drawings, allowances and access can cost far more than the saved start date. Read the detailed contract checklist, what information a builder needs and how to assess a deposit.
Build Advocate can independently check whether the scope, quote and proposed appointment are ready for a homeowner to commit. See the comprehensive £999 package.
