Hosted by: Anna Scothern, Chief Executive, NHIC

Guest: Katharine Harrison, Co-Founder of Digital Buildings

Supporting Doorstep Digest: Guide to Choosing a Builder

Sponsored by: CORGI Services and Recticel Insulation

About the Episode

In this informative episode of the NHIC Podcast, Anna Scothern is joined by Katharine Harrison from Digital Buildings to explore one of the most important decisions a homeowner can make—choosing the right builder.

This episode supports the NHIC’s Guide to Choosing a Builder, part of the Doorstep Digest series aimed at providing free, trusted advice to UK homeowners.

Together, Anna and Katharine unpack what homeowners need to know to hire the right professional for their home improvement project. They discuss everything from planning and researching potential builders to understanding contracts, spotting red flags, and staying safe throughout the process.

What’s Covered in this Episode:

✅ Why choosing the right builder is key to success and peace of mind

📋 How to plan, write a project brief, and find trusted contractors

🛠️ What to check when reviewing credentials and experience

💬 Why written quotes, contracts, and agreed payment terms matter

🚩 Common red flags to watch for during the hiring process

🧰 How Retrogreen’s With You All the Way service supports homeowners through every stage of a retrofit

🤝 The benefits of competency schemes, auditing, and end-of-work assessments

🏗️ Why being part of NHIC and collaborating on resources like the Doorstep Digests benefits the entire industry

Key Links:

Guide to Choosing a Builder – Doorstep Digest: https://nhic.org.uk/doorstep-digests/guide-to-choosing-a-builder/

Digital Buildings: https://nhic.org.uk/nhic-members/digital-buildings/

CORGI Services: https://corgiservices.com/

Recticel Insulation: https://www.recticelinsulation.com/en-gb/home

NHIC Dorrstep Digests: https://nhic.org.uk/doorstep-digests/