Questions and Answers

What is the FMB?

The FMB is the sign of building quality. As the building industry’s largest trade organisation, representing over 13,000 small and medium sized builders, the FMB promotes standards of excellence and helps its members to continually improve levels of business performance and customer service.

Who are FMB Builders?

FMB builders are quality, experienced builders who have been vetted by the membership process. Click here to read about the FMB membership criteria.

Who are FMB MasterBond Builders?

FMB MasterBond builders are high quality, inspected builders who have their work vetted by an independent body at least every 12 months and have been trading for at least three years. Click here for more information on FMB MasterBond Builders.

What is an FMB MasterBond warranty?

Only FMB MasterBond builders can offer customers the 10-year insurance backed MasterBond warranty that provides third party protection if things go wrong*. When you buy a newly built home, it comes with a 10 year warranty against defects. Similarly, the FMB MasterBond warranty provides the same peace of mind by protecting against future problems*. Click here for more information about the MasterBond warranty.

What is TrustMark?

TrustMark is an independent initiative created jointly by Government, industry and consumer groups. It is designed to give increased consumer protection to people having work done in and around their homes. Click here for more information on TrustMark.

How can I contact the FMB?

For full contact details of the FMB Head office and Regions, visit the contact section on our main site by clicking here.

What can I expect from an FMB builder?

A professional, competent job. Our members are carefully vetted before they are allowed to join, and are required to adhere to a strict code of practice. Find out more about our membership criteria and code of practice.

How do I check if my builder is an FMB member?

Click on Check A Member and type in part of the company name.

How do I check if my FMB builder is TrustMark licensed?

Click on Check A Member and type in part of the company name. FMB TrustMark licensed builders are identified in the final column.

How do I find an FMB builder?

The Find A Builder section of this site enables you to get details of up to 15 builders in your area that undertake the type of work you require. You will be emailed their contact details and where possible your details will also be forwarded to the builders you select, so they can contact you direct.

How do I find a TrustMark licensed builder?

The Find A Builder section of this site enables you to get details of up to 15 builders in your area that undertake the type of work you require. Select 'FMB MasterBond & TrustMark licensed' before carrying out your search. You will be emailed their contact details and where possible your details will also be forwarded to the builders you select, so they can contact you direct.

Do I need planning permission?

Many internal alterations to your home do not need planning permission, but if you are extending your accommodation you should always check this out. Your architect, surveyor or builder should be able to advise you or contact the planning department at your local authority. Click here for more information.

What are Building Regulations?

Building Regulations control building works in England and Wales. Scotland and Ireland have their own Building Codes. These cover a wide range of construction work, for example site preparation, ventilation, drainage and glazing. There are even regulations designed to conserve fuel and power within buildings. Your builder should be aware of the relevant regulations for your project, and your Local Authority Building Control department can advise.

Should I ask for a written contract?

In a word, yes. The majority of homeowners reporting problems with their builder don't have a contract and their disagreement boils down to each party having a different understanding as to what had been agreed in the original quotation. The FMB contract sets out the agreed work in easy to understand terms. It has a coveted crystal mark from the Plain English campaign, so there are no long words and no jargon, and the full extent of the work to be undertaken is clearly recorded, which helps to avoid future problems. Download a free FMB Plain English Contract to use on your building project or ask your builder whether he has his own company Terms and Conditions of engagement. Always read these through carefully and seek further legal advice where necessary.

* Terms and Conditions apply.