First Choice Extensions Bewertungen 

In 2020, with my wife expecting our second child, we needed more space and decided to have a loft conversion. This is the first experience we've had of a significant 'build'. We did what most people do - start asking for referrals and see who we can find from our own research. Everyone seems to know of a horror story so you do have an element of trepidation going into the process - which is why doing some real due diligence is important. We met with around 5 businesses, and from that initial starting point the demeanour, detail, and presentation of the First Choice proposal by Tony Marsden really stood out. They weren't the cheapest; nor were they the most expensive - but they were the best. The build was going to be done in the middle of the Covid-19 pandemic, which coincided with me working from home, my wife being on maternity leave with our daughter whilst also pregnant with another on the way - therefore, developing trust and believing in their commitment to their customer was key for us. They passed that test with flying colours.

The build and the payment schedule was fully timetabled and itemised, so you knew what you'd be paying and when - transparency! It also helped with that reassurance I referred to earlier....we'd heard the stories about large sums of money changing hands with other builders for 'materials etc...', only for them never to be seen again!

The guys who were on-site were all polite, friendly and respectful.

The build took place in Autumn/Winter and had a degree of complexity, which led to a couple of hiccups. However, I've always maintained that the measure of someone is not always the issue itself - but how they respond in these circumstances. In this case, First Choice were EXCELLENT. Fully responsive, regardless of whether it was an evening or the weekend - they were not happy until we were. Special mention needs to go to Antony Jackson. Antony was effectively the Customer Care Manager - a dedicated point of contact to First Choice customers throughout their projects. Antony introduced himself prior to the build starting, explained his role and that he was there to support the customer throughout the process. I don't know of any other builders that employ someone in this capacity but it's a masterstroke. We've mentioned it to friends who have had work done and found that their builders were uncontactable once they were off-site. We had no such issues. In fact, Antony was pro-active in his communication - so again, we benefitted from that transparency, honesty and 'customer first' ethos. Antony also provided his contact number to our neighbours so that if they had any queries, they could go directly to him rather than disturb us. Genius! After 6 months, Antony felt like an extended member of our family (we certainly saw him more than our own!)... He was on-site for a weekly brew & update, checking on progress and acting as a Quality Control for the build - and was always respectful (shoes off every time), empathetic, good humoured and polite. He needs to be singled out for praise as his efforts enhanced our experience and had a direct impact on this being a 5 star review.

Our build overran slightly but there were some mitigating factors. First Choice have also been so thorough at the end of the project, not just signing it off and disappearing. Tony Marsden was on-site and identified his own snags as well as encouraging us to share our own. They also arrange for a deep clean (again, a friendly, thorough, customer focused team).
Every single snag we listed has been addressed - even those that we noticed weeks later. If this isn't a commitment to ongoing customer satisfaction, I don't know what is.

Our build is complete, having been transformed from a poorly designed, congested, glum looking space into a beautiful, bright and inspiring bedroom for our daughter. We love it, she loves it! Thank you First Choice. Whole-heartedly recommend them. We've been in your shoes - it's a big decision, a lot of money, you want it to go right, not to be one of those horror stories that people talk about. Honestly, give these guys a call - arrange to meet them...you won't be disappointed.

Job Overview:
Double storey extension to a 3 bed 1930's semi detached - extension of the kitchen, creation of 2 bathrooms, and 2 extra rooms.
Full replacement and felting of slate roof.
Loft conversion.
Plastering throughout.
Tiling throughout.
Plumbing throughout.
Installation of two bathrooms.

Review:
From the first point of meeting Tony, he was head and shoulders above the other builders we had invited to quote for us. Tony was approachable, knowledgeable, understanding and knew that we weren't building experts. He translated everything into clear language for us to understand exactly what would happen and when and he ensured he was always available whenever we had a question. Rather than talking over the phone, if Tony was in the area he would pop around and happily make an hour for us to ask any questions and tweak the initial quote. Tony's quote was middle ground of the quotes we obtained but the service we got from Tony and his team would have been worth an extra few £'000!

The build was due to take 12 weeks and Tony gave us a hugely detailed plan of when things were going to happen, what to expect, and most importantly reassured us that there was no need to worry as he would be there every step of the way - which he was! One of our biggest fears was that Tony would turn up, sell us the extension and then we would never see him again, but he made at least one visit a week and called us a couple of times a week just to make sure we had time to ask any questions. His right hand man, Billy, was on site every day and was just like Tony - approachable, happy to make as much time as possible, and would explain anything we had questions about.

The extension started before the pandemic began, in February 2020 and therefore started as planned. However, when lockdown started, we were worried our extension would be left half built and unattended until the lockdown ended. However, Tony called and explained he was still able to come on site, so as long as we were comfortable he would ensure none of the builders or his team came into the house unnecessarily and that everyone abided by the social distancing rules. My Mrs was pregnant at the time and Tony's openness really gave us the reassurance we needed - the build didn't pause.

There were a number of times during the build that the requirement for materials extended passed the original quote. However, as Tony promised, any additional requirements were picked up by him and his team with no extra cost to us. Tony committed a price to us for the scope we had asked for, and unless the scope changed, there was no deviation in price. This put our mind at rest, so much so that half way through the build we added the loft extension which Tony was more than happy to accommodate even though it added a week onto the overall timeline.

Every member of his wider team was polite, professional and hugely approachable - they were also respectful of the current property where required and would do their best to minimise mess/dust etc where possible.

Nearing the end of the build, were tasked with identifying "snags" for Tony and his team to fix in the final few days. Our snag list was about a 10th of Tony's! Tony is a perfectionist and prides himself on the work his team were doing and therefore wouldn't rest until all of the small snags that we weren't even aware of were fixed. No final job was too small and he even organised a deep cleaning team to come into the old and new parts of the property to do a full deep clean of anywhere which was impacted, just so the property was as good as new when they left - at no extra cost. He even organised for a brick cleaning service to be provided to get rid of the dust on the outer walls of the new build - something he really didn't need to do.

We have kept in touch with Tony since the build who on a number of occassions has come out to fix a couple of snags we have found after the build was complete. Tiny things, but he was always happy to help. We were that pleased with the overall service and job that we have now asked Tony to build us an outhouse in the back garden - something he has turned around in terms of quotes and spec in less than 48 hours. We couldn't thank him enough for the help he has provided and how he has transformed our home.

If you are looking for a trustworthy builder and someone who will be with you every step of the way and at absolutely reasonable price, then look no further. We could not be happier with our decision to go with First Choice Extensions.

From start to finish the service from First Choice Extensions has been excellent and really professional. We had a dormer loft conversion done in what was a smaller size loft. They helped us with drawings to maximise space and created a stunning spacious loft area with an en-suite bathroom. Any snags were quickly quickly rectified with no fuss. The build itself was made significantly less intrusive by the creative way they accessed the loft space via scaffolding for the majority of the works. We have no hesitation in recommending them.

I would recommend First Choice Extensions.

We had, what turned out to be, a complicated renovation of our 1899 semi-detached house. The project was to create a utility room off the hallway into a reception room and to take out and replace the kitchen. We also had a new cylinder based boiler/heating system installed.

The kitchen involved the removal of a chimney breast, the removal of the existing door and window and replaced with a bi-folding door. We also ended up having the floor taken out and replaced to ensure it was at the same level as the rest of the house.

Underfloor heating was installed, new kitchen units from AS Kitchens and a feature brick slip wall.

First Choice were able to meet all of the requirements and challenges discovered on the way.

When we get around to it, we are hoping to use First Choice again for our loft conversion.

We have been delighted with the work from First Choice Extensions. There has been excellent communication and the team has cultivated a level of trust over the project that put us at ease. We particularly liked the transparency in the planning stage, where Tony gave us plenty of time to understand our designs and over the following weeks he was very patient, answering all our questions until we felt comfortable to commit. We didn’t feel rushed or pressured at any stage. During work the whole team was friendly and professional, they were also understanding of our son’s sensory needs and were thoughtful in letting us know when particularly noisy things were about to happen. Tony Jackson even brought him a pair of ear defenders which was a very nice touch. The work has been to a high standard and the team have been focused on making sure the final finish is excellent and that we are happy. When small issues have cropped up they have reassured us that everything will get sorted and they have delivered on that promise completely. We are grateful for the attention to detail and customer focus and we are really happy with our new family space. We would not hesitate to recommend them.

Personally we had great service from FC Extensions.
Our build was finished on time (would had been early if it weren't for Corona virus!), Very polite staff and nothing was a problem!

I would highly recommend Tony and his team to anyone.

We chose First Choice as wanted our extension managed by just the one contact rather than us having to source lots of suppliers - it was important to us to have someone project manage the whole thing - both having busy jobs and working full time we didnt have the time to arrange all the different elements that comes with having an extension. Tony provided lots of advice at quote stage and was prompt with the turnaround of quote and always on the other end of the phone before and all throughout the works taking place. We were happy with the price and knew we were in good hands.

There have been a few minor hiccups along the way only to be expected with such work taking place on a house as you never know what you find along the way but they were quickly sorted out - overall we have been very impressed with everything. We would definately reccommend First Choice.

We now have the large kitchen and dining area we always wanted and are thrilled with the outcome, we love it! Thank you First Choice Extensions.

When we knew we wanted to have the work done (extension on the back of the house to open up a larger Kitchen Diner), we didn't really know where to start. We gave Tony a call on our friends recommendation, and I am glad we did! From start to finish, Tony and his team were brilliant.

It's pretty daunting having building work done but First Choice Extensions made sure it was a smooth as it could be. Communication was first class, completions were on time and if there was ever any issues they were always quick to respond and rectify. Using Tony's network, we were able to pretty much kit out the entire build and the team were always accommodating with other trades when on site. The attention to detail on finish is second to none!

When it come's to after sales service, I have been blown away. Tony always picks up the phone, and no matter how big or small the issue, will be over to take a look.

I can't recommend these guys enough!

We had a kitchen, dining room and utility room extension with new kitchen installed. 12 week project on 200 year old house. Project finished on time and to budget even through height of Covid-19 pandemic. Tony gives you absolute confidence. He has strong attention to detail and resolves any issues swiftly and efficiently. His building team, lead by Billy, are skilled, reliable, tidy workers and polite. We are quite particular on works and finish and we're really pleased with the end result. We would highly recommend First Choice.

I have rated First Choice Extension with 5 Stars, as having had extensive experience of their work I cannot find any fault with their workmanship.
I used this company for what was planned as a limited refurbishment of a residential property I had purchased. This work involved two section to the project; 1) the redesign of living and bedroom spaces i.e. knocking through rooms, repositioning doors, refurbishing bathroom, fitting bi-fold doors, refurbishing stairs, fitting composite decking, fitting a completely new central heating system, and a full electrical rewire; 2) building a two story extension, add a downstairs utility room and toilet and an upstairs ensuite.
Once commenced, the work proved more extensive than initially planned and FCE took full control of all the extra work required, overcoming all problems within their stride, including the major job of a redesign of the roof. For this roof problem they recommended their preferred Structual Design Architect, who corrected the work of my original architect, afterwhich FCE just got on with making things right.
Right through this project many problems were encountered. I was kept informed and up to date on all aspects of the project, having site meetings, as and when required.
All of the trades people I met on site appeared to be of a very pleasant disposition, which I put down to working for a good company.
If I was forced to identify a negative point, it would have to relate to the estimate provided. This was a very long drawn out document that is more of a project planning schedule than a price break-down
I would have no hesitation to recommending First Choice Extensions to anyone who might ask my opinion.

After looking at multiple companies and viewing different projects we decided to go with first choice extensions due to their professionalism, quality of work viewed and upfront quote and costing.

We also used their drawing and planning service and were given excellent advice.

Throughout the project everyone within the team has been friendly, contactable, professional and reliable. They've worked very hard and to a very high standard. The attention to detail from everyone has been outstanding.

During the coronavirus pandemic, they adapted their working practices to continue to work safely and finish the project in time for our daughter's arrival, which was really appreciated.

They have been exceptional, and totally transformed our downstairs living space.

Would highly recommend.

Tony was recommended to us by friends and we were so happy from start to finish. We will definitely use Tony and his trustworthy team for any future work we may need. We have since recommended him to others and will continue to do so.

Contacted a number of builders to get quotes, Tony came along and we thought he listened to our needs better than some others. He gave plenty of common sense advice and provided a quotation with a transparent payment strategy depending on First Choice completing easily defined fixed payment stages. Tony, Billy, Danny and the whole of the workforce on site were great to deal with and we have been really happy with the completed garage conversion. Definitely recommend a chat with Tony if you are looking for some straight talking on a project your thinking about.

One word. Fantastic
Description. Always there
On Time
Work perfect
Reliable
All the guys are friendly and helpful
Pricing is competitive
Would definitely recommend them

Really great service, price and workmanship.
A pleasure to deal with.

Tony and the rest of the lads were great. Attention to detail excellent and also very adaptable when I made a few last minute adjustments! Project took around 3 months which was well within the timescale agreed at the beginning.

On the whole things were OK - from the start Tony was upfront and honest with the costing, possibilities and alternatives to want we wanted doing. A few small niggles along the way were dealt with in a timely and professional manner.

There were a few bigger issues - cooker vent not set up to a an external wall so it vents into the cavity, gas supply was not connected to the hob and most importantly, dishwasher waste pipe was not plumbed in correctly which resulted in it being used a few times before we noticed water seeping up through the flooring, which has resulted in permanent damage.

Like I say, the above issues apart, considering it was my first experience of a builder, things went relatively smooth and I would certainly consider Tony for any future work.

Excellent service and amazing job done on our loft conversion.

Tony and team were extremely professional and were the only company to clearly state all costs and timelines with no surprises. The whole team delivered on time and worked around our various requests and schedules.

The end result was an amazing loft and Tony was always available for any queries and advice. I would highly recommend them and definitely use again in the future!

The First Choice Extension team have been extremely helpful and professional throughout the process, from initial design through to build. Tony has been able to offer practical and helpful choices to any problems we have had along the way, making the whole experience a lot easier than we expected. Mark (the joiner) in particular has been excellent throughout, adaptable to last minute changes and providing helpful advice and a very high quality service. I would certainly recommend this firm in future. Thank you!

I used First Choice extensions to build a side extension on my bungalow, as i had used them before and was very pleased with the work. Again It has been completed to a high standard and on time. Tony always answers any queries promptly, and is always accessible, I would highly recommend this company.