How to Choose a Builder in Greenwich — 7 Questions to Ask

Choosing the right builder in Greenwich can feel like a minefield. Whether you're planning a loft conversion above the rooftops of Maze Hill, a full kitchen renovation in a Victorian terrace in Blackheath, or a commercial fit-out near Greenwich Peninsula, the stakes are high. A good builder will transform your space and add lasting value. The wrong one can cost you time, money, and serious stress.

At Heath Projects, we've worked across Greenwich, Lewisham, Woolwich, and the wider SE London area for years, and we've heard plenty of cautionary tales. So here are seven essential questions every homeowner or business owner should ask before signing anything.

1. Are You Registered and Fully Insured?

This is non-negotiable. Any reputable builder operating in Greenwich should hold valid public liability insurance — ideally for at least £2 million — and be able to provide proof on request. Ask whether they're registered with a recognised trade body such as the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) or TrustMark. These accreditations aren't just badges; they mean the company has been independently vetted for quality and professionalism.

2. Can You Show Me Recent Local Work?

Experience in your specific area matters more than you might think. Building in Greenwich comes with its own considerations — many properties are Victorian or Edwardian, conservation area rules apply in parts of Blackheath and Greenwich town centre, and there are specific planning sensitivities around the World Heritage Site buffer zones. Ask to see a portfolio of recent projects nearby, and if possible, request references from homeowners or businesses in SE London you can actually speak to.

3. Who Will Be on Site Day to Day?

Many larger firms win contracts and then subcontract the work to teams with little connection to the original company. Ask directly: who are the people working in my home or premises? Will there be a dedicated site manager? At Heath Projects, our clients always know exactly who is on their project — accountability starts from day one.

4. What Does Your Quote Actually Include?

A low quote can be incredibly tempting, but vague quotes are a classic precursor to spiralling costs. A professional builder will provide an itemised breakdown covering labour, materials, disposal of waste, and any provisional sums for unknowns. Ask what happens if costs change — is there a formal variation process? Transparency here protects both parties and avoids nasty surprises halfway through your Eltham extension or Deptford refurbishment.

5. What Are Your Payment Terms?

Legitimate builders do not ask for large upfront cash payments. A reasonable deposit — typically 10 to 25% depending on project size — is standard, with staged payments tied to agreed milestones. Be very wary of anyone insisting on a significant cash lump sum before work begins. A clear payment schedule in writing is a sign of a company that operates professionally and respects its clients.

6. How Do You Handle Planning Permission and Building Regulations?

Not every project requires full planning permission, but most structural work must comply with Building Regulations. In Greenwich, permitted development rights can be more restricted depending on your property type and location — particularly if you're in a conservation area around Blackheath Village or near the historic Greenwich Park. A good builder will guide you through what's required, liaise with Greenwich Council where needed, and ensure all sign-offs are properly obtained. If a builder waves away the question of regulations, wave goodbye to them.

7. What's Your Timeline and How Do You Communicate?

Delays happen in construction — that's the reality. But how a builder communicates during those delays tells you everything. Ask for a written project timeline with key milestones. Ask how often you'll receive updates and who your main point of contact will be. Whether you're a homeowner in Lee Green or a retail business owner in Woolwich, you deserve to know what's happening in your property at every stage.

The Right Builder Makes All the Difference

Greenwich is a borough with incredible architecture, ambitious homeowners, and a thriving business community. From the Georgian terraces of Croom's Hill to the new developments around Kidbrooke Village, the demand for quality construction is only growing. That means there are plenty of builders competing for your work — and not all of them deserve it.

Take your time, ask the hard questions, and trust your instincts. The cheapest quote rarely delivers the best result, and a builder who's reluctant to answer straightforward questions is telling you something important.

At Heath Projects, we welcome every one of these questions — because we have honest, confident answers to all of them. We're proud to be part of the SE London community, and every project we take on carries our commitment to quality craftsmanship and clear communication.

Shaping spaces, defining standards.

Ready to start your project? Get in touch with the Heath Projects team today at heathprojects.co.uk — we'd love to hear what you have in mind.