Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, absolutely. All quotes, contracts, and project documentation are provided in clear, written English. You’ll receive a detailed breakdown of costs, timelines, and exactly what’s included in the work. No vague estimates or confusion.

It varies by municipality and project type. Minor works declarations typically take 2-4 weeks. Standard building licences for extensions or conversions usually take 1-3 months. Complex projects or those in protected areas can take 3-6 months. I always provide realistic timelines based on your specific project and local ayuntamiento.

Yes, this is one of my core services. I handle all Spanish paperwork, submit applications to your local ayuntamiento, liaise with officials in Spanish, and keep you updated in English throughout the process. I know what each municipality requires and how to navigate the system efficiently.

For projects that require an architect (major structural changes, extensions, new builds), I work with trusted local professionals who understand both Spanish requirements and British expectations. I coordinate between the architect and you, managing all communication.

I carry full public liability insurance for construction work. For specific products like bathroom fixtures or tiles, manufacturer warranties apply. I provide workmanship guarantees on the installations we complete, and I stand by the quality of work - if there’s a problem, I fix it.

Payment terms are agreed upfront and detailed in the written quote. Typically, I work on a staged payment basis: a deposit to secure materials and schedule the work, progress payments at agreed milestones, and final payment upon completion. I don’t ask for large upfront payments, and I don’t expect final payment until you’re satisfied with the work.

Yes, maintaining a clean work site is part of professional service. We use dust sheets, clean up at the end of each day, and do a thorough final clean when the project is complete. Your property is treated with respect throughout.

Spain occasionally offers grants for energy efficiency improvements, facade renovations in historic areas, or accessibility modifications. These vary by region and change over time. If relevant grants are available for your project, I can advise on eligibility and help with applications.

I aim to respond to all enquiries within 24 hours on working days (Monday-Friday). If you call and I’m on a job site, I’ll call you back the same day. For site visits and written quotes, I typically schedule within a week and provide quotes within 48 hours of visiting your property.

Yes, always. Every project gets a detailed written quote in English before any work begins. This includes a breakdown of labour costs, materials, timelines, and what’s included in the price. The quote is the price you pay - no hidden extras or surprise costs later.

Yes. I can show you photos of recent projects and, with permission from previous clients, arrange for you to see completed work. Many of my clients are happy to provide references. I also have a gallery page on this website showing examples of bathroom renovations and tiling work.

Yes, being truly bilingual means I can negotiate with Spanish suppliers and order exactly what’s needed using correct technical terms. This often results in better pricing than British builders who struggle with the language, and it ensures we get the right materials first time.

I cover a 30km radius from Cómpeta throughout the Axarquía region. This includes Nerja, Frigiliana, Torrox, Torre del Mar, Vélez-Málaga, Sayalonga, Canillas de Aceituno, Algarrobo, and all the villages in between. If your location isn’t listed, get in touch - I may still be able to help.

Many of my clients aren’t present during renovations. I can manage the project remotely, sending regular photo updates, handling any decisions that arise, and coordinating with neighbours if necessary. We agree on a communication schedule that works for you, whether that’s daily WhatsApp updates or weekly calls.

The key difference is I’ve lived in Cómpeta for 27 years since age 12, making me truly bilingual with deep local knowledge. I understand British expectations but also know how to navigate Spanish building systems properly. You get clear English communication, proper permit handling, firm pricing, and quality work - without the language barriers and confusion that often frustrate British homeowners using other builders.

I work to Spanish building regulations (which are mandatory) while delivering finishes that meet British quality expectations. For example, Spanish waterproofing methods for bathrooms differ from UK practices - I use the Spanish system correctly (because it must pass inspections) but apply the precision and attention to detail British clients expect.

In some cases, yes, though I usually recommend Spanish or European materials that are proven to work in this climate. UK products can take weeks to arrive, add significant shipping costs, and sometimes aren’t ideal for Spanish conditions. I’ll advise honestly on what makes sense for your project and budget.

Older Spanish properties sometimes reveal issues once work begins - hidden damp, outdated wiring, or structural concerns. If I find something unexpected, I stop work and explain the issue and costs before proceeding. You make the decision, and nothing proceeds without your approval. Honest communication is essential.

While most of my clients are British expats (because clear English communication is my key differentiator), I also work with Spanish homeowners and people from other countries. The same professional standards, clear quotes, and quality work apply to all projects regardless of client nationality.