Doz1

i have just bought a corijto which need refurbing inside. im after a good builder around the costa tropical way near albunol.

i need to find good sources for:
kitchens contemporary style
tiles
stone worktops
bathroom suites

Also i need a good pool installer. have not got a clue about pools but are infinitey pools really expensive as apposed to regular pools.

not too sure for the correct term but im after some stone flooring with a type of pebble mosiac amongst larger stones often seen in courtyards

when employing a builder what is the spanish way of paying them, contracts deposits etc

Hillybilly

That's for you to determine! Same as you would in the UK, you're the employer - don't fall into the usual trap of being dictated to by your builder, "just because this is Spain".

Don't forget your building licence and you will need permission for a pool too.

Fred James

Get a decent architect - you will need one for the pool licence. He can sort out the estimates for the refurb work etc and manage the builders as well.

It will cost you a few % but it will be money well spent if you can find the right guy.

Doz1

how much is a building licence and how long does it take to get it.
also getting permission on the pool is that fairly straight forward.
how do you soure reputable people in spain....is there any federations they should belong to etc

Hillybilly

The cost of the building licence depends on the cost of the building works - it's a percentage fee. Timewise, allow a couple of months at the outside for it to come through, should be less if it's straightforward (minor works).
Pool licences depend on the area and the water situation (or lack of!). Pool costs depend mostly on the ground conditions so make sure you have some sort of site investigation done - as Fred advises - get an architect involved, it'll save you time, money and stress.
These are things you should really be aware of at this stage if you've already bought a project!

David

Ask around. Get recommendations from locals who have had work done. And then go and visit one of their sites or completed projects.

Regards

David

Fred James

Also ask your architect for recommendations - they always know the good builders.

spain

each town hall has its own architect so that could be a good place to start - they will advise what licenses are needed and if projects are required

usually 3%-6% of total cost of work will cover the taxes for licences - the pool company may obtain these on your behalf, if they do make sure you get all the paperwork from them for future reference

August is probably not the best time of year to be applying though as so many people are on their hols

as already said get recommendations ( that could be a bit sketchy though as some people will recommend their friends !!! ) and visit sites they have worked at before - perhaps you could try the local papers and the get references for anyone you find ?

ALWAYS withhold an agreed % until the job is complete and you are happy

there was a thread recently on here that someone had a pool constructed but cant remember what are they were in.... have a search through

wiccan

Hi just a couple of websites to check out. You might get an idea of prices
from these (spains B&Q)
www.leroymerlin.es
www.aki.es
Its a bit of training in spanish as well LOL
have fun
wiccan

Doz1

thanks everyone for your help

big wheels

My experiences with Spanish builders, plumbers, electricians etc is that we have the work done and then have to contact them months later to remind them that we are going back to Uk in a couple of weeks, and have they got our bill written up yet? Otherwise they won't get paid until our next visit

Sometimes this works, other times we settle up 6 months after the job is done.