Thinking of Renovating or Building? Here’s How to Get the Right Builder On Board
Whether you’re building a home from scratch or simply updating your kitchen, hiring the right builder is key. The difference between a smooth project and a nightmare usually comes down to one thing: who you hire.
With stories of cowboy builders still surfacing and new regulations shaping the industry, knowing how to find a trustworthy builder in Ireland has never been more important. In this guide, we’ll walk you through practical, up-to-date steps to help you choose a professional who’s skilled, dependable, and worth your investment.
Why the Right Builder Makes All the Difference
Renovation work can be expensive, time-consuming, and messy. But a good builder won’t just get the job done — they’ll reduce your stress, keep things on track, and deliver the results you envisioned. On the flip side, choosing the wrong builder can lead to delays, unexpected costs, and poor workmanship.
That’s why it’s worth doing your homework upfront.
What Makes a Builder “Reliable”?
1- Registered and Accredited
Start by looking for builders who are registered with a recognised body. In Ireland, the Construction Industry Register Ireland (CIRI) is the official register of builders who meet professional standards. Being on this register shows that the builder is qualified, compliant with regulations, and committed to continuing education.
2- Insurance and Health & Safety
Always ask to see their public liability insurance and make sure they follow health and safety best practices. Reputable builders won’t hesitate to show you these details.
3- Solid Reputation
Word of mouth still counts. Ask neighbours, family, and friends about builders they’ve used. Online reviews can also help you spot red flags early.
4- Clear Quotes and Contracts
A good builder will offer you a detailed quote, explaining exactly what’s included, and will provide a clear contract before starting any work.
How to Find a Reliable Builder in Ireland (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Be Clear About What You Want
Before you contact anyone, define your project. Do you need a new roof? An extension? A complete rebuild? The clearer your brief, the easier it is for builders to give you accurate estimates.
Step 2: Ask for Recommendations
Start local. Ask people you trust if they’ve had building work done recently. Find out how the project went, whether the builder stayed on budget, and how issues were handled.
Step 3: Search the CIRI Register
Visit ciri.ie and search by location or trade. Every builder listed has been vetted and must meet set standards — this alone filters out most unreliable contractors.
Step 4: Get at Least 3 Written Quotes
Don’t go with the first quote you receive. Talk to at least three builders. Compare their pricing, timeline, and what’s included. Cheap isn’t always cheerful — a suspiciously low quote might signal poor materials or shortcuts.
Step 5: Meet Them in Person
This is your chance to gauge their professionalism. Are they punctual? Do they explain things clearly? A good builder should ask smart questions about your project and show genuine interest.
Step 6: Check Their Work
Ask to see previous jobs or speak to past clients. If possible, visit a completed project. Look at the finish, the attention to detail, and ask if the client was happy with the overall process.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Here’s what should make you pause:
- No written quote or vague pricing
- Hesitation to provide references or insurance
- Offering VAT-free cash deals
- Unrealistically quick start dates (busy builders are usually booked months in advance)
- Poor communication or hard-to-reach builders
Why a Written Contract Is Non-Negotiable
Before work begins, make sure you both sign a contract. It should outline:
- The scope of work
- Start and finish dates
- Payment terms and stages
- Site access, working hours, and clean-up
- What happens if changes are needed
This protects both sides and avoids confusion later.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Builder
Want to feel confident about your choice? Ask these:
- Are you registered with CIRI or a trade body?
- Do you have insurance? Can I see it?
- Who will be on site — your team or subcontractors?
- Can I see recent examples of your work?
- What’s your payment schedule?
- What happens if there’s a delay or change in scope?
After You’ve Chosen Your Builder
Once you’ve selected your builder, here’s how to keep the project running smoothly:
- Stay in regular contact, but don’t micromanage
- Stick to the agreed terms unless changes are essential (then document them)
- Take photos of progress — they’ll help with record-keeping
- Make staged payments only after key milestones are reached
The Role of CIRI in 2025
The Construction Industry Register Ireland is now the gold standard for builder verification. From late 2025, it will include over 80 categories, from sole traders to large firms. Every listed contractor will have to prove competence, submit examples of recent work, and meet continuous professional development standards.
If your builder is on the register, you know they’ve passed the checks — and you have recourse if things go wrong.
Final Thoughts: Take Your Time
Choosing a builder isn’t a decision to rush. Take the time to vet your options, check credentials, and trust your gut. You’re not just hiring someone to lay bricks — you’re trusting them with your home and your money.
Do your due diligence now, and you’ll thank yourself later.
If you’re looking for a trusted, experienced building contractor in Dublin, consider working with OS Holding. With over a decade of experience in renovations, extensions, and new builds, our team is known for delivering quality workmanship with transparency, professionalism, and care.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Get in touch with us today for a free consultation and see how they can make your project smooth, stress-free, and successful.
