Before You Build provides independent builder quote reviews for homeowners preparing for renovation, extension and refurbishment projects across the UK.
Every review is completed personally by me, Ollie Dix, using practical experience gained from pricing, planning and delivering residential building projects.
Why I Created Before You Build
Builder quotations can be difficult to compare and often vary significantly in their level of detail. Important work may be omitted, allowances may be unclear, and a quote that initially appears competitive can lead to unexpected costs later.
I created Before You Build to give homeowners access to practical building experience before they commit to a contractor.
Practical Construction Experience
I am an experienced renovation contractor based in Bath. My work includes extensions, full-property refurbishments, kitchens, bathrooms and renovations involving older and listed buildings.
This hands-on experience helps me recognise unclear descriptions, missing work, unrealistic allowances and areas that should be questioned before a quotation is accepted.
Independent Advice for Homeowners
Before You Build is completely independent. We do not receive commissions, referral fees or incentives from builders, suppliers or lead-generation companies.
The homeowner is always our customer. Our role is not to select a builder or guarantee their work, but to help you understand the quotations you have received and make a better-informed decision.
Clear, Practical Reports
Our reports are written in straightforward language and focus on the issues that matter before work begins: what is included, what may be missing, where costs could change and which questions should be raised with the builder.
Every project is reviewed by a real person—not an automated quotation-checking tool.