Hiring a builder or tradesperson for your home renovation should feel exciting — not stressful. Yet many homeowners in Ireland find themselves dealing with broken promises, poor communication, or shoddy workmanship that turns their dream project into a nightmare.
Here are the top 5 frustrations homeowners commonly face — and how choosing the right builder can help you avoid them entirely.
1. Poor Communication
The Problem:
You’ve hired a builder, but now you can’t get hold of them. You’re left wondering what’s going on with your project, or worse, receiving updates second-hand or not at all.
Why It Matters:
Good communication builds trust. Homeowners want to feel informed and in control.
How to Avoid It:
Choose a contractor who sets expectations from day one — with agreed points of contact, regular updates, and quick replies to questions. A responsive builder is a respectful builder.
2. Missed Deadlines and No-Shows
The Problem:
Builders not turning up when they said they would. Timelines that keep getting pushed back with no explanation. Delays that mess up your life.
Why It Matters:
Time is money — especially when you’re living around a build, renting elsewhere, or planning around key dates.
How to Avoid It:
Work with a tradesperson who provides a written schedule and sticks to it. Look for a track record of on-time delivery and don’t be afraid to ask for references.
3. Hidden Costs and Budget Creep (different to Scope Creep)
The Problem:
What started as a “simple job” now costs twice as much — and you’re not sure why. You’re hit with extras you weren’t expecting.
Why It Matters:
A vague quote or shifting costs erode trust fast. You need financial clarity.
How to Avoid It:
Choose a builder who provides transparent, itemised quotes, explains any variations clearly, and puts all changes in writing. Upfront honesty prevents costly surprises later.
4. Poor Workmanship
The Problem:
Sloppy finishes. Rushed work. Jobs that don’t last. You end up paying again to fix what should have been done right the first time.
Why It Matters:
Your home is one of your biggest investments — quality matters.
How to Avoid It:
Look for a contractor who takes pride in their work, uses qualified tradespeople, and offers a guarantee. Don’t be afraid to inspect their past projects or ask about standards.
5. Lack of Respect for Your Home
The Problem:
Dust everywhere. Rubbish left behind. Damaged floors, walls, or gardens — and no accountability.
Why It Matters:
You’re living in the space. Respect and cleanliness go a long way during stressful renovations.
How to Avoid It:
A quality builder has daily clean-up routines, uses dust protection, and treats your property with care. Ask about site etiquette and see how they handle things from day one.
You shouldn’t have to chase your builder, clean up after them, or worry about being misled. At Summit Matters Ltd, we’ve built our reputation around doing things differently — with integrity, clarity, and care from start to finish.
If you’ve had a bad experience in the past, let us show you what building should feel like: collaborative, stress-free, and high-quality.
Need help with your home renovation?
Get in touch with Summit Matters Ltd — where respect, communication, and craftsmanship come as standard.