Should i pay before work is done?

Question

We've bought a house that needs lots of work. We're trying to do lots of ourselves, but there are things we'd like to get the experts in for. I know trades all have different terms, but what is standard? I'm just quite nervous about handing over lots of cash before anything is even done. What are the terms that people work on for larger projects like bathroom refurbs, garage conversions, and extensions? On top of that, is escrow something that is used for larger projects?

Anthony · Accepted Answer

I would say don’t pay for everything up front, we take an agreed deposit on the start of the works and then stage payments as the job progresses, with a final payment on completion and sign off of works.
We normally have this written into a contract which both parties agree and sign before works start, this way both parties are covered.

Jazz · Answer

It’s completely normal to feel cautious and you’re right to ask the question.

For most reputable trades, especially on larger projects, it isn’t standard to pay everything upfront. The usual and fair approach is staged payments so both parties are protected.

Normally a small deposit may be requested to secure a start date or cover initial materials, but this should never be the full cost. Payments are then made in agreed stages as the work progresses, with the final balance paid on completion once you’re happy with the work.

On projects such as extensions, garage conversions or bathroom refurbishments, payments are usually linked to progress on site and clearly agreed before work starts. Most domestic building work in the UK doesn’t use escrow, but clear written terms, staged payments and good communication are the normal way of keeping things transparent and fair.

As a homeowner, you should never feel pressured to hand over large sums upfront. A professional tradesperson will always be happy to explain their payment terms and work in a way that feels comfortable for both sides.

Darren · Answer

Never agree to pay money up front in my eyes in instruments throughout the project is good but only for work that has already been done

Martin · Answer

Hi if a job is over a set amount it’s called a pro forma I normally ask for one then but I get once job is started on a date of rip out and materials arriving at site and by bacs payment so u have it all in black and white never hand over cash

Leo · Answer

Hi
I usually asks for a 15-20% deposit upfront to secure the job and get materials.

Then I would break the remains balance into stages of each week as work progressed, that way client would
Be satisfied that job is moving on and they are paying as the work has progressed.

Sonny · Answer

I would ask for a payment plan 
Defiantly wouldn’t pay the full amount upfront!

Doug · Answer

Most trades would prefer to have all material paid for then staged payment for remainder 
Just make sure you don’t deal in cash see if they take card payments and use credit cards as you’re be covered if things go wrong.
Make sure you have a detailed  works order from them.

Gary · Answer

I normally ask for 1/4 upfront then same halfway through the work

Gentur · Answer

Usually small deposit to secure the work and stage payments as the job progresses with contract signing in , and payment bank transfer is the safest way

Adam · Answer

It's not unusual for the customer to cover the cost of materials on larger jobs, but I wouldn't pay in full until the job is finished. Generally your builder is going to be a decent family man just trying to earn a living. Obviously there are the odd rouges out there you just need to use your good judgement.

Should i pay before work is done?

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