Frequently Asked Questions

What sort of building work can I use the service for?

Our advisory service can be used for all types of small building projects.

What information do you need from me?

The service offered does not include a visit to site, so we very much depend on the information received being relevant. You first need to complete the initial enquiry form, and then this is followed by a more in depth enquiry form, asking for photographs and measurements of relevant part of your property. What is also helpful is if you could forward any quotations already received from builder prior to our involvement. As every request and type of work differs, we will streamline any information needed to individual, all of which would be submitted electronically

How long does it take to receive advice?

Once all of the requested information has been received by our technical team, your response will be prepared and forwarded within 72 hours.

What format does the advice take?

Your response will be forwarded electronically via email, and under certain circumstances we could provide a hard copy posted to your requested address.

How does it work?

Advice follows and easy to follow step by step process that provides you with the knowledge and expertise of our technical surveyor’s report, to assist you with your building project.

How much does it cost?

No matter if you receive advice prior to work commencing, during construction, or post construction the fee will be the same at £104.50 inclusive of VAT. We offer a 10% on line reduction if paid for up front bringing the cost of the service down to £95.00

What benefits will I get by using the service?

You will gain the technical advice from senior construction professionals, that will assist you in having an understanding of works required, and comparisons to national standards, legal requirements, and what are reasonable costs involved in whatever works you are undertaking. This will assist you in having a knowledgeable approach when dealing with your builder. This we have found places you in a position of strength, as some builders will play on the fact that they can charge you what they like, as it is difficult for a non technical person to understand what is to be provided for the cost, and whether the cost quoted is reasonable or not

How can we contact Building Advice Bureau?

Initial contact is via email, with full contact details being forwarded once signed up to the service

Email: info@buildingadvicebureau.co.uk

 What areas of the country do you operate?

Our service is offered nationally, as advice does not include visit to site. However with more complex instructions we can assist further and at an additional cost with site inspections in certain circumstances, as Building Advice Bureau is part of the CPM Group of companies that have a national network of inspectors

Will my builder listen to me?

This depends on whether your builder is a reputable and registered company. We have found that you have a greater chance of being listened to if you talk the same language as your builder. Our service provides this recognition and support and has the ability to answer any queries and offer answers and solutions to issues.

Do you offer site inspections?

We do but at additional cost. Please contact our head office to discuss further if you require this service. We have a national network of inspectors, who undertake inspections from insurance company validations, through to quality control inspections and onto expert witness works

What qualifications do you have to offer this sort of advice?

Our advisors are all construction professionals, with most degree qualified and chartered status. We also have Surveyors, NHBC approved builders and Architects on the panel.

How long has your company being trading?

Building Advice Bureau is part of the CPM Group of companies that have been trading for 11 years. We started offering services only to larger clients such as Housing Association, Local Authorities, Solicitors and Insurance Companies, but market research has proven that the general public will benefit from our technical advice, and the service of such professional has always been out of the reach of the general public due to the high costs.