Best Builders in South Shields

Whether you are planning a kitchen extension, a loft conversion, a garage conversion, or a full renovation, finding a reliable builder is one of the most important decisions you will make. Here are the best builders in South Shields.

DNA Home Improvements

DNA Home Improvements at 5 Clifton Avenue is a well-established South Shields building company offering a full range of services across South Tyneside. The company is CHAS certified and is a member of both Checkatrade and Trust a Trader, giving customers an extra layer of reassurance.

DNA Home Improvements provides a full 10-year insurance-backed guarantee with every job. Services include extensions, garage conversions, kitchens, bathrooms, and general building work. The company handles projects from initial design through to completion, which means less coordination for the homeowner.

Best for: CHAS certified with a 10-year insurance-backed guarantee on every job — extensions, conversions, kitchens, and bathrooms.

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Hi-Spec Fabrications

Hi-Spec Fabrications at 34 Westoe Road is a North East business with over 30 years of experience in the construction industry. The company specialises in home extensions, garage conversions, and garage extensions, and also manufactures and installs double-glazed windows, doors, and conservatories.

Hi-Spec Fabrications offers an extensive building service from design to completion, undertaking projects large and small. The Westoe Road showroom means you can visit in person to discuss your project and see examples of their work. If your project involves both structural work and new windows or doors, having one company handle both can simplify the process considerably.

Best for: Over 30 years of experience — extensions, conversions, and double glazing from design to completion.

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How to Find a Good Builder in South Shields

Beyond the firms listed above, South Shields has a strong pool of builders on platforms like Checkatrade, MyBuilder, and the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Here is what to check before hiring:

• FMB membership — the Federation of Master Builders vets and inspects its members. FMB builders must pass a professional inspection before joining and are regularly assessed
• Checkatrade or Trust a Trader reviews — read recent reviews from customers in South Shields. Look for patterns rather than individual comments
• Insurance — your builder should have public liability insurance (at least one million pounds) and employer's liability insurance if they have staff
• Written contract — always agree a written contract that covers the scope of work, the price, the payment schedule, and the expected timeline
• Deposit — a reasonable deposit is 10 to 15 per cent. Be wary of builders who ask for a large upfront payment

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Common Building Costs in South Shields

These are approximate costs for common projects in the South Shields area:

• Single-storey rear extension (3m x 4m): £25,000 to £40,000
• Two-storey extension: £40,000 to £70,000
• Loft conversion (dormer): £30,000 to £50,000
• Garage conversion: £10,000 to £20,000
• New kitchen (mid-range, fitted): £8,000 to £15,000
• New bathroom (mid-range): £4,000 to £8,000

Costs vary depending on specification, access, and the condition of the existing property. Always get at least three written quotes.

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Planning Permission and Building Regulations

Most extensions in South Shields require either planning permission from South Tyneside Council or must comply with permitted development rules. All structural work requires Building Regulations approval. Your builder should be familiar with both processes, but it is ultimately your responsibility as the homeowner to ensure compliance.

South Tyneside Council's planning portal is at southtyneside.gov.uk and you can check whether your project needs planning permission before committing.

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For more local trades guides, see our guides to the best plumbers and the best electricians in South Shields.