Find verified builders near you
Whether you are planning an extension, a loft conversion, a full renovation, or structural work, SureTrade connects you with verified local builders who have been reviewed and approved before they can receive project matches.
What builders can help with
A builder handles the structural and construction elements of home improvement projects. This includes anything from small repairs and alterations through to major extensions and new builds. Many builders also coordinate other trades -- such as electricians, plumbers, and plasterers -- to deliver complete projects from start to finish.
Whether you are in Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, or elsewhere across the UK, a reliable builder is essential for any project involving structural changes to your home.
Common building projects
- Single and double-storey extensions
- Loft conversions
- Garage conversions
- Full house renovations
- Kitchen and bathroom structural work
- Garden rooms and outbuildings
- Structural alterations and wall removal
- New builds and self-builds
- Underpinning and foundation work
- Chimney removal and structural repairs
- Porch and conservatory builds
- Damp proofing and tanking
Builders across the North East -- including Middlesbrough, Teesside, Hartlepool, and Peterlee -- work on the same range of projects as builders elsewhere in the UK.
Why choosing a verified builder matters
Building work is one of the most expensive and disruptive types of home improvement. Choosing the wrong builder can lead to delays, unexpected costs, poor workmanship, or unfinished projects. Open directories allow anyone to list themselves regardless of quality, which makes it difficult to separate reliable professionals from the rest.
A verified builder has been reviewed before receiving project matches. This gives homeowners more confidence that the person they are speaking with has met a baseline standard of credibility, has shown evidence of previous work, and has declared appropriate insurance.
Learn more about how SureTrade approaches this on our Trust and Verification page.
How SureTrade works
Describe your building project
Tell us what you need done in your own words. You can use our project planner or fill in a form. No signup required to start.
We match you with verified builders
Our trust engine scores approved builders against your project based on trade, location, availability, and profile strength.
You choose who to contact
Review your matches and unlock the contact details of builders you want to speak with. You deal with them directly -- no middleman.
Typical UK builder costs
Builder costs vary significantly based on project size, location, complexity, and materials. The figures below are general estimates to help with initial budgeting.
Day rates
General builder day rates typically range from 200 to 400 pounds per day depending on experience and region. Rates in the North East (Newcastle, Durham, Sunderland) may be slightly lower than London and the South East.
Extensions
Single-storey rear extensions typically cost 1,500 to 3,000 pounds per square metre including labour and materials. Double-storey extensions are usually 1,000 to 1,800 pounds per square metre.
Loft conversions
A basic loft conversion (Velux or rooflight) typically costs 20,000 to 40,000 pounds. Dormer conversions range from 35,000 to 65,000 pounds. Costs depend on the type of conversion, roof structure, and finishes.
Garage conversions
Converting a single garage into a living space typically costs 10,000 to 20,000 pounds depending on the level of finish and whether structural work is needed.
These figures are general UK estimates only. Actual costs depend on your specific project, location, materials, site conditions, and the builder you choose. Always get detailed written quotes for your particular job.
Red flags when hiring a builder
Knowing what to watch out for can help you avoid unreliable builders. If you notice any of the following, proceed with caution:
- Requesting full payment upfront before any work begins
- No written quote, contract, or scope of work
- Unable or unwilling to show proof of insurance
- No evidence of previous work or references
- Pressure to commit immediately without time to compare
- Significantly cheaper than every other quote with no clear reason
- Vague timelines and no discussion of milestones
- Wanting to use only cash payments with no paperwork
For more detail, read our guide on how to find a reliable tradesperson.
Questions to ask before accepting a quote
Before committing to a builder, ask these questions to make sure you are making an informed decision:
- 1Do you have public liability insurance and can I see the certificate?
- 2Can you show me examples of similar work you have completed?
- 3What exactly is included in this quote and what is not?
- 4What is your realistic timeline from start to completion?
- 5How do you handle changes to the scope once work begins?
- 6What are your payment terms and when are stage payments due?
- 7Will you be on site personally or will subcontractors do the work?
- 8Do I need planning permission or building regulations approval for this?
- 9What happens if there are delays or unforeseen problems?
- 10Can you provide a written contract before work starts?
We cover this topic in more depth in our article Questions to ask before hiring a builder.
How SureTrade verifies builders
Every builder on SureTrade goes through a review process before they can receive project matches. This applies to builders across the UK, including those in the North East covering Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, and surrounding areas.
Profile reviewed
We check that profiles are complete, accurate, and represent the builder honestly.
Work evidence required
Builders must provide photographic evidence of previous projects before approval.
Insurance verified
We verify that builders have declared appropriate public liability insurance.
Limited memberships
Memberships are capped per area to maintain quality and reduce noise for homeowners.
Trust scoring
Matches are ranked by trust and relevance, not by how much the builder pays us.
Ongoing standards
Builders who fall below quality standards can be removed from the platform.
Read more about our approach on the Trust and Verification page.
Related trades
Building projects often require more than one trade. Here are trades commonly involved alongside builders:
Builders in the North East
SureTrade covers the North East of England including Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Teesside, Hartlepool, and Peterlee. Builders in these areas go through the same verification process as all professionals on the platform.
View all North East tradespeopleFrequently asked questions
How much does a builder cost in the UK?
Builder day rates typically range from 200 to 400 pounds depending on experience, region, and project complexity. Larger projects like extensions are usually quoted as a fixed price. Costs in the North East, including Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland, tend to be lower than London and the South East but vary by project.
What can a builder help with?
Builders handle structural and construction work including extensions, conversions, renovations, new builds, wall removal, foundation work, and general building repairs. Many builders also coordinate other trades such as electricians and plumbers as part of a larger project.
How do I know if a builder is reliable?
Look for proof of insurance, ask to see examples of previous work, get a written quote, and check references. Platforms like SureTrade verify builders before they can receive matches, which removes much of the guesswork.
Do builders need qualifications?
There is no single mandatory qualification for general builders in the UK, but many hold NVQs, City and Guilds, or CSCS cards. What matters most is experience, insurance, and evidence of previous quality work. Specialist work like gas and electrics requires separate certifications.
How long does a house extension take?
A single-storey rear extension typically takes 10 to 16 weeks from groundwork to completion. Double-storey extensions and loft conversions may take longer. Timelines vary depending on planning requirements, weather, and the complexity of the build.
Should I get multiple quotes?
Yes. Getting at least three quotes helps you understand the fair market rate and compare approaches. Be wary of any quote that is significantly cheaper than the others without a clear explanation.
Do I need planning permission for an extension?
Some extensions fall under Permitted Development and do not require planning permission. Larger projects, properties in conservation areas, or listed buildings usually need planning approval. A good builder will advise you on this before work begins.
How does SureTrade match me with builders?
You describe your project and SureTrade matches you with verified local builders based on trade, location, and availability. Matches are scored by trust and relevance. You choose who to contact -- your details are never shared without your permission.
Are builders on SureTrade verified?
Yes. Every builder goes through a review process before being approved. We check profile completeness, require photographic evidence of previous work, and verify insurance declarations.
Can I find builders in the North East through SureTrade?
Yes. SureTrade covers the North East including Durham, Newcastle, Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Teesside, Hartlepool, and Peterlee. Builders in these areas go through the same verification process as all professionals on the platform.
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