THE TOOLBOX

KNOW YOUR TRADE

Not sure who you actually need? Start here.

Simple explanations of what different trades do, where their work overlaps and when it’s time to call in a specialist.

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WORTH A READ

Popular trade explainers

What does a structural engineer actually do?

When you might need one, what they look at and how they fit into a building project.

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Builder or bricklayer — who do I need?

The difference between the two and when one might bring the other into the job.

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What does an electrician actually do?

From installation and testing to fault finding and certification.

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Plumber or heating engineer — what's the difference?

Who to call for leaks, boilers, heating systems and everything in between.

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What kind of roofer do I need?

Flat roofs, pitched roofs, leadwork and repairs don't always need the same specialist.

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What does a groundworker do?

Drainage, foundations, driveways and the work that happens before the building really starts.

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