Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to some of the most common questions
List of Questions
Can you provide references?
All of our work is based on recommendations from satisfied clients. We can provide any number of references specific to your project.
I am looking to convert my garage, is this something your company can do and advise on toilets/sinks in that location etc?
We are well versed in garage conversions and have provided some stunning home bars and offices for clients where the garage was previously used for a space to accumulate storage.
Can your company manage the project in its entirety, trades, schedule, material and labour?
Yes, this is what Imagine excel at and are asked by all our clients to undertake. It makes the project far more efficient for you as the homeowner and or investor
Labour appears to be expensive with companies currently, how does your company compare?
If you are looking for the cheapest company that won’t be us.
We attract the best trades because we pay the right money. as such, our team are on site every day from just before 8am and put in a full days work. We do not flit between jobs that prolongs and frustrates you as homeowners, landlords seeking to rent the property or investors seeking to get a swift return on their investment.
Does your company undertake projects on behalf of investors?
Yes, we have ran numerous projects involving investors and have always delivered on budget and on time. We welcome dialogue regarding any future projects and can provide references and total transparency.
Do you charge VAT?
Yes, we are a VAT registered company. All payments are on receipt of a company invoice with all costs approved in writing in advance.
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Do you provide guarantees?
Yes, structurally, the building inspector will sign off on this element which will be a third party approval. For anything other than fair wear and tear (scuff marks on paint for example) we provide guarantees.
Our electrical and gas contractors will provide completion certificates for their respective works which contribute to the Final Certificate for the building Inspector.
Imagine Hampshire provide a 12-24 month Defect Warranty for any works we undertake outside of the structural works. Defect warranty’s will be discussed and agreed, in advance of works commencing. All works will be thoroughly inspected prior to completion of works to ensure the client is satisfied and where applicable, the Final Certificate from the Building Inspector has been issued.
Can you provide Scaffold
We have approved contractors for Scaffold who we use on all of our projects. They visit the site with us and we discuss our requirements/duration to enable them to price accordingly.
Are your team on site from start to completion of the project?
Yes, one of the many reasons we get recommended is that clients and neighbours are shocked that we are on site daily from before 8am through to the end of the project (with exception of when the plastering is drying out on internal works only).
We price a project to ensure that we are committed to you and will not take on more projects than we can manage.
Can you source credible architects, structural engineers and recommend a private building inspector?
Yes, we have built up a portfolio of credible consultants who deliver specific to your needs. You would deal direct with these for your needs and we would consult throughout the entire process.
How do we keep a tab on costs?
We provide a fully transparent service whereby costs are in black and white.
With every project, there should be an allowance for contingency’s such as the building inspector requiring additional depths of footings for example, or existing issues arising once floors are exposed.
We ensure that ALL costs are approved via email in advance.
We provide pragmatic advice that serves to provide a cost effective solution.
Similarly, any amendments, or variations, are logged on a spreadsheet, with are associated costs approved and the date of approval.
Does your company manage all the health and safety?
Yes, we manage all health and safety and fire safety requirements from start to completion.
We will provide a document called a Construction Phase Plan which will include Specific Risk Assessments, Method Statements and Emergency Plans.
We ensure that all contractors are briefed onpriort to commencing works and only allow competent trades on site.
Do you have good relationships with building Merchants?
Yes, we have excellent relationships with builders merchants who assist us to get materials that others struggle with.
By communicating effectively with the merchant and paying bills on time, we ensure efficiency and maintain excellent relationships that benefit all parties and most of all you, the client.
Is your company Fully Insured?
Yes we are a fully insure company with Zurich Insurance.
Questions Answered?
Do you undertake Drone Surveys?
Yes, though we do not do thermal surveys at present.
The drone survey is subject to its location. If the address is within a Flight Restricted Zone, we would have to seek approval from the CAA with a minimum of 14 days notice.
The drone survey is subject to weather conditions but allows the client to see the issues pre and post works.
Drone surveys are far more cost effective and safer than having contractors access areas which otherwise could only be accessed via scaffold or mobile elevated work platforms.
We also provide a photographic and video image library of completed works for your records.
Does your company do refurbishments
Yes, one of our key areas of expertise is full house refurbishments.
It is far more cost effective to have the property vacant during the works, as it allows the build team to programme efficiently culminating into a completed project in a timely manner and on budget.
Can you also do New Build?
Yes, we have built new build detached property and are familiar with the requirements and the key touches that will make the property stand out for al the right reasons.
I am purchasing a property that the home survey report has highlighted some issues, can you provide a quote for the works?
We get contacted for a lot of this type of work and the answer is yes.
I am looking to purchase a property, modernise, remodel it and then sell it. Does your company work within set budgets to achieve a profit for me?
We provide realistic budgets and provide a superior finish that estate agents will find easier to sell. Every project we have worked on like this has sold within the first 3 viewings.
Is the price you provide the final cost to me or are there any hidden extras?
Our price is final, subject to any variations or additional requirements by the building Inspector/Structural Engineer.
If we have all of this information in advance, our quote is final.
This of course is also subject to any changes you make, such as paint, window sizes floor coverings, kitchens etc.
Any of this amendments, that we would class as variations, are approved in advance of commencing any works and recorded for full transparency.
We do not put in a invoice that you are unaware of.
Does your company provide a contract in advance of works?
Yes, this contract serves to protect you and us as the building contractor.
It clearly outlines what we are expected to do and what the price that has been given for said works.
There would also be included a schedule of payments.
Are you a member of any trade body?
No, we have looked into this many years ago but found that word and mouth recommendations and references by genuine clients, are far better than any other third party accreditation