Dealing With Builders

"You only "do" someone once", said the man who was pricing up our building work. Too true, but if you're the one who gets "done" it's not all that reassuring to note that the "doer" has just lightened his client base.  I'm very wary of builders, but always wanting to believe the best about human nature- which leaves me conflicted- and very glad that the choice of contractor will be made by the Council.  We understand five firms have been asked to tender- and this was the first to show. Given that the deadline is next Thursday, it seems increasingly likely that other four will just bung in a quote based on past experience and hope for the best. This man- and his son or nephew- made thoughtful comments and gave every appearance of giving a damn. I will be pleased if he wins- but still wary until the work is efficiently done and dusted and has lasted six months without falling apart.