Advice & GuidAnce
STRAIGHT ANSWERS TO THE QUESTIONS HOMEOWNERS ASK MOSTBuilding work is a significant investment — and most of the problems that arise on projects come from unanswered questions early on, not from anything that happens on site. This section covers the things homeowners ask us most often: what things cost, how long they take, who does what, and how to make good decisions before work starts. No jargon, no sales pitch — just honest answers from people who build for a living in Cornwall.
How do I choose the right builder for my project?
Reviews help, but they're not enough. Choosing a builder well means looking past the headline...
What adds the most value when renovating a home in Cornwall?
Not all renovation spend is equal — some improvements reliably add value, others cost more than...
The most common mistakes homeowners make on building projects — and how to avoid them
Most building projects that go wrong don't fail because of one dramatic error. They fail because...
Can I live in my house during a renovation?
Sometimes — but it depends on what's being done and how realistic you are about what it involves....
Why do builder quotes vary so much — and how do you compare them properly?
Getting three quotes and finding they differ by £20,000 or more is common, and it's one of the...
What should I have prepared before contacting a builder?
You don't need everything figured out. Most good builders don't expect a complete brief, detailed...
How long does a renovation or extension actually take?
The honest answer is that it depends on scope — but working from realistic ranges is far more...
What’s the difference between a builder, main contractor and trades?
These terms get used interchangeably, but they describe different things — and understanding the...
Do I need planning permission for an extension or renovation in Cornwall?
The short answer is: it depends on what you're building and where your property sits. Many home...
How much does a house extension cost in Cornwall?
How much does a house extension cost in Cornwall? The honest answer is that there's no single...