Birth of The Port

Birth of The Port

The Pioneers statue celebrates the canal builders who founded Ellesmere Port and was cast in bronze by Liverpool artist Stephen Broadbent.

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How to choose your builder?


Are you considering having work done to your home ?
Do you need a builder ?

This is one of the biggest investments you are likely to make.
Take great care to check out your builder before agreeing to any work.

How should I choose a builder ?

  • Consider employing a professional to help you plan your project.
  • If you don't employ a professional, get advice from someone in the industry you know and trust.
  • Discuss the extent of your proposals with your professional contact. (Do you need plans preparing ? Is site supervision part of the package ?)
  • Always get at least three quotes and have them checked.
  • Don't automatically go for the cheapest price.


What should I ask the builder I am considering using ?

  • where have you worked before ?
  • Can you supply references from satisfied customers ?
  • Are you happy for me to see your work ?
  • What is your expertise in the partciular project ?
  • How do you want to be paid ? On completion or in stages ?
  • Are you happy to accept a retention clause ?
  • Can you give me a start date and a completion date ?
  • Will you accept a penalty clause on failure to complete on time ?
  • Will you agree to independant arbitration should we have a dispute ?

Finally, reassure yourself by checking out the builders work and references
with previous clients, where possible.

Ask questions now- Don't wait until it's too late

Issued by your Building Control Service at Ellesmere Port & Neston
Borough Council Tel: 0151 356 6688 Fax: 0151 356 6689