How to Find a Reliable Builder in Newport
A 5-step checklist Welsh consumer-protection bodies recommend before any builder starts work — credentials, contracts, payment terms.
1. Verify their FMB registration
Look up at fmb.org.uk using the licence number on their ID card. What does FMB actually verify?
2. Check Companies House
Search the business at find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk. Look for multiple years of filed accounts, no strike-off events, and director names matching whoever quoted you.
3. Get three written quotes
For any builder job over £500, compare three quotes. One dramatically below the others usually means a shortcut on materials, labour or scope. Quotes should itemise materials, labour, VAT and a payment schedule.
4. See proof of insurance
Public liability £2-5m minimum, employers' liability £5m if they have staff. Ask to see the certificate before work starts. CHAS-accredited contractors have been independently audited.
5. Sign a written contract
Exact scope of work, materials specification (brand/grade where relevant), start and completion dates, payment schedule (avoid more than ~20% upfront), warranty period, and how additional work gets agreed.
22 verified builders in Newport
Each listing on besttrades.wales is cross-checked against Google Business Profile, Companies House and the relevant trade-body register before being added.