FAQs
Straight answers to the questions we get most.
Costs, timings, planning, warranties, payment stages. If it's not covered here, WhatsApp us — we'll come back with a straight answer.
Cost & pricing
How much does a builder cost in the North West?+
Every job is different, but as a rough guide: single-storey extensions typically start around £2,000–£2,500 per m², loft conversions run £30,000–£90,000 depending on type, kitchens £15,000–£50,000+, and full house renovations £80,000–£200,000+. New build homes are £2,200–£2,800 per m² for a good-quality bespoke self-build. We give you a proper fixed price after a site visit — no vague estimates.
Do you charge for quotes?+
No. Initial site visits and quotes are free. If your project needs detailed design work before we can price accurately, we'll agree that with you up front — but there's no charge for the initial conversation.
How do payments work?+
For most projects we work on staged payments tied to construction milestones — never a big upfront deposit. Payment stages are agreed in writing before work starts, so you always know what's due and when.
Do you offer fixed pricing?+
Yes — the vast majority of our work is delivered on a fixed price agreed before we start. Any changes to the scope are quoted as variations and signed off by you before we do them.
Timing & programme
How long does a typical project take?+
Loft conversions 5–14 weeks. Single-storey extensions 10–14 weeks. Double-storey and wrap-arounds 16–20 weeks. Kitchens 1–5 weeks. Bathrooms 1–3 weeks. Full house renovations 4–9 months. New build homes 10–14 months. We give you a proper programme up front, not a vague guess.
How far ahead should I book?+
For extensions and loft conversions we typically have a lead time of 8–16 weeks from quote acceptance to breaking ground. Larger renovations and new builds usually need 3–4 months' lead time. Get in touch early — even if you're not ready to start, we can help you plan.
Do you work weekends?+
Standard hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00–17:00, with an early finish on Fridays. We don't work weekends by default — better for our people, and quieter for your neighbours. We can accommodate weekend work for commercial fit-outs where it's specifically needed.
Planning & building control
Do I need planning permission?+
It depends on the project and where you live. Many extensions and loft conversions fall under Permitted Development, but there are size limits and rules on materials and roof shape. Conservation areas and listed buildings almost always need full planning. We'll tell you honestly at the enquiry stage whether you need planning, a Lawful Development Certificate, or nothing at all.
Do you manage Building Control?+
Yes — we handle the entire Building Regulations process on your behalf. Inspections booked, drawings submitted, sign-off certificate handed to you at completion. You don't need to think about it.
What about party wall agreements?+
If your project needs a Party Wall Award (usually the case for extensions, loft conversions and basement work that affects a boundary), we can point you to a party wall surveyor we trust. We'll flag it early — long before you're mid-build.
Warranties & credentials
Are you insured?+
Yes — we carry full public liability insurance, employer's liability insurance, and contract works insurance. Certificates available on request before you sign anything.
What warranties do your projects come with?+
New build homes carry a 10-year ICW (International Construction Warranty) structural warranty as standard, meeting mortgage lender requirements. Extensions, conversions and renovations carry a workmanship guarantee from HJK. Manufacturer warranties (boilers, windows, roofs, appliances) pass through to you on handover.
Are you ICW registered?+
Yes — HJK Construction is a registered builder with ICW, the International Construction Warranty scheme. It's the industry-standard structural warranty for new build homes and gives your mortgage lender the assurance they need.
Have you won any awards?+
Yes — most recently our Bentley Gardens development in Bury was shortlisted for Show Home of the Year at a national awards programme.
Working with HJK
Who will I be dealing with?+
You'll have one point of contact — usually a director — from the first phone call through to handover. No being passed between people, no diluted accountability. The people who price your job are the people making sure it's built right.
Do you work for property developers as well as private clients?+
Yes — roughly half our work is main contracting for property developers and housing associations (recent clients include MSV Housing and Satis Group), and half is private client work — extensions, loft conversions, renovations and one-off homes.
How do I get started?+
The fastest way is to WhatsApp us or send an enquiry. Tell us the basics — what, where, when — and we'll come back within two working days to arrange a site visit.
Still got questions?