Hiring a builder isn’t just about getting the job done—it’s about putting your home, time, and hard-earned money in a trustworthy company.
Whether planning a kitchen extension, a full-home renovation, or a new build in London, the right builder will bring your vision to life. The wrong one? They could leave you with delays, spiralling costs, and unfinished work.
At Ryan and Sons, we’ve spent over a decade earning the trust of homeowners across London and the South East—not just through craftsmanship but also through clear communication, reliability, and complete transparency. We believe every homeowner deserves a builder they can rely on.
So before you sign a contract, ask these essential questions—and see why more and more Londoners are choosing Ryan and Sons for peace of mind and construction done right.
We’ve all heard horror stories about builders who disappear mid-project, jobs that cost double the estimate, or finishes that don’t last a year. Unfortunately, these aren’t rare. In a city like London, where demand is high, and regulations are complex, choosing the wrong contractor can mean:
It’s not just about technical skill—it’s about communication, management, honesty, and experience.
At Ryan and Sons, our clients come to us because they want more than bricks and plaster. They want:
This is the foundation we build on.
It might not be the flashiest question—but it’s one of the most important. Builders working on your property should have:
Without it, you could be left liable for thousands if something goes wrong.
We hold full insurance coverage on all projects and are proud members of industry bodies like:
We’ll show you proof of insurance upfront—no hesitation, no excuses.
A trustworthy builder should be eager to share real examples of their work. Look for:
Ask for in-person visits to past jobs if possible—nothing reveals quality like seeing it up close.
At Ryan and Sons, our portfolio includes:
You can see them all—and speak to past clients who’ve been where you are now.
Many issues in construction stem from poor project management—even when the builders are good. You need someone:
Every Ryan and Sons project has a dedicated site manager and a lead project coordinator. We provide:
You won’t have to chase us for answers—we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
You shouldn’t feel in the dark once the work starts. A great builder should:
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings, speeds up decision-making, and builds trust.
We believe constant communication is the key to a successful project. That’s why we:
You’ll always know what’s happening—without needing to chase for updates.
A good builder gives more than just a number—they explain where the money goes, how to handle changes, and where you can save without compromising quality. Look for builders who:
We provide clear, detailed breakdowns—including labour, materials, permits, and finishes. Our budgeting tools help you:
There are no nasty surprises with Ryan and Sons—just clarity and control.
Ask builders to outline the phases of your project and provide:
Timeline management is one of the biggest indicators of professionalism.
Even with the best planning, delays can happen. What matters is how they’re handled. At Ryan and Sons, we:
Many firms subcontract all their labour—plumbers, electricians, carpenters, even project managers. This can lead to inconsistent quality and a lack of accountability.
That’s not how Ryan and Sons operates.
While we partner with specialists where needed, we maintain a core in-house team for:
When we do bring in external trades (like structural engineers or heating engineers), they’re handpicked, vetted, and supervised—ensuring our high standards are upheld throughout.
Planning permission and building control can be a maze—especially in London, where every borough has its own rules on:
We manage every part of the process, including:
With us, you won’t have to deal with red tape—we handle the paperwork, meetings, and back-and-forth, so your project moves smoothly.
A good builder should return to fix minor issues after completion. Make sure you have:
We provide:
Our clients know they can call us months—or even years—later and still receive the same care and attention.
If a builder hesitates to provide references, walk away. Trustworthy firms are proud of their past work and happy to connect you with former clients.
We’ve built relationships, not just properties. Clients consistently praise our:
We’re happy to arrange reference calls or site visits to completed projects—so you can see and hear the results yourself.
From structural surprises to material shortages, unexpected issues happen. What matters is how they’re handled.
We believe in:
At Ryan and Sons, we plan for the unexpected—and tackle problems proactively, not reactively.
Not every builder is right for every job. Some specialise in new builds, others in listed buildings or high-end finishes.
At Ryan and Sons, we’re best known for:
We know what we’re good at—and we never take on work that we can’t deliver to our highest standard.
Don’t forget these extras—they often separate great builders from the rest:
If a builder answers confidently, clearly, and willingly—it’s a strong sign they’re the real deal.
We know that hiring a builder is a big decision—and a big leap of faith. That’s why we’ve built our reputation not just on quality builds, but on honesty, structure, and client satisfaction.
From your first consultation to final handover (and beyond), we offer:
In a crowded market, our values set us apart. We don’t cut corners—we build homes that last and relationships that grow.
A great builder isn’t just skilled with tools—they’re organised, transparent, trustworthy, and aligned with your vision.
Choosing the right team makes the build exciting—not stressful.
At Ryan and Sons, we bring expertise, empathy, and energy to every project—backed by a team that prioritises your home and happiness. We’d love to show you what that looks like.
Q1: What’s the biggest red flag when hiring a builder?
A1: Vague quotes, reluctance to share references, and pushy sales tactics. A good builder wants to earn your trust, not rush your decision.
Q2: How far in advance should I book a builder?
A2: Ideally 3–6 months. Good builders are in demand—plan ahead for a smooth experience.
Q3: Can Ryan and Sons take on small projects too?
A3: Absolutely. From minor renovations to major builds, we scale our service to fit your project.
Q4: How do I start the conversation with you?
A4: Simple—book a no-obligation consultation. We’ll listen, assess your needs, and guide you on next steps.
