FMB – This stands for the federation of Master Builders; this trade association was set up around 60 years and today boasts as being the largest trade body within the building industry.  This is a non profit making organisation and focuses on the small to medium sized building company.

What does this mean to you when you see that a builder is a member of the FMB?

The code of practice on their website details that they promote professionalism and high quality workmanship throughout; builders who display the FMB logo have met the criteria required by the FMB.   When receiving a quote from a member you will always receive the price, a breakdown of what is involved with that and the form of agreement you will both enter into. The start date, length of time the job will take to carry out, and any details of insurance backed warranties and of course the payment terms.  Some builders may decide to quote you on what is commonly known as day rates this is where you will pay for each day they, and others if agreed, will work on your project.  If this is the case the FMB clearly state on their website that the builder should provide you with a copy of terms and conditions.

Once the job is completed and carried out you can expect a member of the FMB to leave your site tidy and free of any waste.  All instructions and guarantees will be provided and a briefing on how to work/operate anything is required.  Lastly a date is usually arranged so that the builder can return to finish anything that may require a touch up after the job has settled etc. This is sometimes not needed but a member of the FMB will always offer to do this to ensure your work is carried out and finished off at a level you are happy with.

Is it a legal requirement?

No, builders are not required by law to join the FMB, so if you do want building work carried out your builder does not have to be a member.  Builders pay to join this company and do so because they feel it adds value to their company and give you trust and confidence when choosing a builder in your local area. However just because a builder doesn’t have this does not mean they will not themselves have high quality and standards when carrying out the work your looking to have done.  Knowing some of the codes of practice a FMB member is expected to carry out means you are now a little more informed when looking for a free quote from a builder in your area.

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