If you’ve been searching for a specialist adaptations contractor, you’ve probably found that we’re few and far between. That’s because it requires experience, knowledge and skills in designing and installing adaptations to get things right for you or your client’s individual needs.

Suitable accessibility options, installed correctly, will help to make a property a more comfortable and safe place to live. Giving you, and those who support you, the confidence needed for you to live independently for longer.

One of the most important aspects of having a home adapted is who you choose to carry out the work. This blog covers what you should look for in an adaptations contractor in order to receive the best customer service, workmanship and aftercare…

What Experience Do They Have?

Fitting your adaptations should go far deeper than the surface-level attachments.

Whilst most builders can work out what part goes where, a great adaptations contractor will take time to understand your needs and provide solutions that will help make mobility around your home easy and safe.

John Ford Group was founded on personal experience. John Ford himself witnessed from a young age the incredible benefits of having the correct adaptations made to his parents. This gave him a deeper understanding of the customers the company works with. You can see the passion, motivation and dedication to get things right for you from start to finish – and beyond.

Do They Have Accreditation?

Accreditation is an industry seal of approval. It’s not a legal requirement for a building company to have accreditation. If they do, it’s usually a good sign that they care about their customers and the work they do.

It can give you confidence that the adaptations contractor you choose is working to industry standards for operating and adhering to health and safety requirements.

There are many accreditations out there; some of the most common are…

• • CHAS (Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme) – ensures compliance across different areas of risk management.
  • Buy With Confidence – companies who have this are vetted and approved by Trading Standards to operate in a legal, honest and fair way.

• TrustMark – a government-endorsed scheme that ensures a company meets standards of competence, customer service and practice.

• Constructionline – this is a register for pre-qualified construction industry contractors and consultants in the UK.

• Approved Code – businesses with this offer additional purchase protection and simple procedures to resolve any issues.

John Ford Group holds all the above accreditations, giving you total peace of mind that the work we carry out for you is done to an exceptional standard, and guaranteed to last.

Are They Happy To Show You Past Work?

If you ask a contractor for evidence of previous work and they’re hesitant or refuse to show you, it’s a red flag!

It’s perfectly acceptable to ask to look at case studies, testimonials and feedback. A confident, capable and competent adaptations contractor will have these things ready to show you, as they’ll have nothing to hide.

Case studies with before and after pictures are a brilliant way to read and see how a company manages projects, meets client needs, and you might even get some ideas for your own home.

Some of our clients are so pleased with the adaptations we’ve designed and installed they’re willing to let you see them in person!

Is Their Door Always Open?

An ‘open-door’ policy encourages communication, feedback and discussions before, during and after your property adaptation project.

A conscientious adaptations contractor will know that changing your home is a big decision, and one you won’t have made lightly. They’ll be happy to offer you advice and support even before you commit. Helping guide you to make the right choices and decisions that will enhance life in your home for years to come.

This will give you an insight into how dealings with them will hopefully continue throughout the project, and after, should any issues arise.

What Makes An Incredible Adaptations Contractor?

As well as all the points above, a superb adaptation contractor will also…

• Understand the delicate nature of working in your home and treat it with the utmost respect it deserves.
• Cause as little disruption as possible, leave things in good working order and take care to ensure your dignity, privacy and safety gets considered at all times.
• Work alongside other professionals, such as occupational therapists, to make sure they have thought of everything to enhance mobility in every area of your property.
• Act with integrity, ensuring that their quotation is fair, accurate and transparent. Meaning no unexpected nasty hidden costs on your final bill.

Doing your homework when appointing your adaptations contractor is worth it. It’ll create a smooth, stress-free experience and leave you with a home you can trust to keep you safe while maintaining or increasing your independence.

John Ford Group is one of the UK’s leading adaptations contractors. Don’t just take our word for it. You can hear all about us in our customers’ own words by clicking here…