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May 28, 2026
Young homeowners are increasingly choosing builders the same way they shop online – relying on reviews, comparison platforms and branding rather than traditional vetting checks, according to new research from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) and HomeOwners Alliance (HOA).
The research suggests this approach could leave younger homeowners more exposed to rogue traders. One in three (33%) homeowners under 35 rely on online reviews when hiring a builder – compared with just 16% of over-55s – while almost a quarter (24%) use comparison platforms to shop for tradespeople.
However, younger homeowners are far less likely to carry out more traditional checks before hiring a builder. Just 8% check whether a builder is a member of a trade body like the FMB – compared with 21% of over-55s – while only 15% verify formal qualifications such as Gas Safe registration, versus 27% of older homeowners.
Younger homeowners are also twice as likely as the overall average to judge a builder based on their website and branding (20% vs 9%), treating home improvement decisions more like other online purchases.
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said:
“Young homeowners are hiring builders the same way they would order a takeaway – scrolling through reviews and choosing whoever has five stars. But online reviews can be faked, comparison sites are not regulated, and neither are small building companies, which can make it easier for rogue or cowboy builders to appear more credible than they are.
“That’s why traditional vetting methods matter. Choosing a builder through a trade body like the FMB gives homeowners extra reassurance that the company has been properly checked and independently vetted, helping to reduce the risk of encountering cowboy traders.”
Paula Higgins, CEO of HomeOwners Alliance, added:
“My message to anyone hiring a builder is simple: don’t rely solely on what you see online. It’s important to check your builder has been properly vetted, so you’re not leaving yourself exposed to rogue or cowboy traders.
“We partnered with the Federation of Master Builders because their Find a Builder service helps homeowners hire with more confidence, knowing listed builders have gone through detailed checks rather than simply collecting positive online reviews.”
Find trusted local builders that have been independently inspected to ensure their work is to a high standard with our FMB find a builder tool:
Find local builders with our partner the Federation of Master Builders.
1. Check qualifications and credentials. Make sure your builder has the relevant training, certifications, and proven experience for the type of work you need.
2. Review trading history and financial stability. Look into how long the business has been trading and whether it shows signs of financial reliability and stability.
3. Verify trade body memberships and accreditations. Check for recognised trade body memberships and accreditation logos, and confirm they are legitimate.
4. Visit previous or comparable projects. Where possible, view completed or ongoing work to assess build quality and attention to detail.
5. Use clear contracts and staged payments. Agree independent contracts and structured payment stages to protect both parties and reduce risk.
6. Check insurance coverage. Ensure your builder has adequate public liability and employer’s liability insurance before work begins.
Before you start your search make sure you read our guide to Hiring a good Builder which lays out the process, includes links to the main organisations and trade bodies and the key questions you should be asking.
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