Can't give it away

[tulipcocoa]

For the past three months we have been trying to interest local builders in a conservation project on a grade II listed georgian house. We have hired a local architect/project manager who has drawn up plans and specifications. The first stage of the project will involve renovating the roof, leadwork, re-rendering chimneys, facades and outside decoration. Although a couple of firms have looked at the property, none appear to be interested in submitting a proposal. The project manager says that's just the way it is. Any one know of a better way of going about the process?

Thanks

 

[Gervase]

You have to be pretty selective about the firms you approach - and most importantly you need find one which has conservation experience using the right materials. I'd start with a search through the Building Conservation Directory. It's not exclusive, but will give you a start, and if one of the firms there can't do it, chances are they will know someone who can.
Also, try the 'seeking specialists' section of this site; chances are that there will be someone with the right expertise who will be willing to do the work.
Where in the UK is the project?

 

[NT]

If stuck on non-sensitive areas of the project, taking on an unemployed builder on hourly rate is a good option, on the understanding that day 2 will only happen if rate of progress on day 1 is satisfactory.


NT

 

[Nemesis]

I would suggest looking at separate trades - a general builder isn't a roofer, get the roof, lead and chimneys done first by a specialist firm with expertise in traditional roofing.

The rendering (presumably lime) is a different skill, as is decorating.

Try also SPAB, which may be able to help with lists of those who can do the work.

 

[tulipcocoa]

Thanks for these helpful responses. I thought I had responded earlier.