Calling in the professionals

Members consult us about building and design contacts because:

• They have specific jobs that need specific professionals
• They don't have their own personal (and local) contacts to tackle the job
• Our address book of home technical experts ranges from architects, builders and building surveyors to damp-proofers and structural engineers
• We can get involved in every stage – from helping with planning permission to sourcing specialist carpenters

Home improvements expert Roberto Crovini says: 'Living through a home renovation can be stressful. Making major decisions in short timespans, finding (and briefing) structural engineers, tracking down reliable architects and builders, sourcing fixtures and fittings, deciding on paint colours – the number of ‘to-do-today' decisions that members go through is huge.

'Members say that simply knowing who to call and when can be half the battle.' With our list of reliable professionals, we can help with all member requests. Whether you need guidance on planning applications and building regulations or you need to source a structural engineer, building surveyor or a like-minded architect, contact us for advice.

We've helped members save time by finding property experts who can advise on anything from new porches to extensions covering several thousand square feet. Our address book includes technical experts who can draw up a loft extension, quantity surveyors to sort out costing issues, architects and builders. And we can get involved in all aspects of a job, from organising the specifications and paperwork for a planning application to talking to swimming pool installers about health and safety issues.

Insider tips:

• Before commissioning an architect, talk to them in depth. Deciding who to commission doesn't only depend on budget. Are they helpful? How receptive are they to ideas? What previous work have they undertaken? Always ask for references and follow them up. Find out what types of project they've undertaken and ask if you can see any of their previous work.
• Make sure you get two written quotes from different builders for the work. When comparing costs, ensure that the builders are quoting for the same things (materials, site clearance, time scales and so on). Discuss time frames for the job. What are the terms if the deadline isn't met?
• When using an architect, don't forget you're part of the design process too. Work out what it is you want from your home. Are you allergic to mess? Do you need space for huge parties? Could you live open plan or should rooms be separate? Think about budget. Talking to the architect about your home needs can help you get the right design.
• Don't be afraid to ask for advice on smaller projects. Our members use interior designers for small one-off jobs, such as lighting advice or colour and pattern consultations, as well as whole room or property projects.