Based on looking at the website Contemporarygardenrooms.uk, it appears to be a UK-based company specializing in the design and construction of custom-built timber garden rooms.
They emphasize quality craftsmanship, bespoke solutions, and a comprehensive service from concept to completion.
The site showcases various uses for their garden rooms, from home offices and studios to leisure spaces, and highlights customer testimonials as a key indicator of their service and product quality.
The company positions itself as a reliable, no-frills option run by experienced joiners, offering nationwide installation from their Leeds base.
They aim to provide tailored solutions that integrate seamlessly with a customer’s outdoor space and lifestyle, steering clear of a “one-size-fits-all” approach.
While the core service of building garden rooms is permissible, it’s crucial for potential customers to be mindful of certain financial aspects, particularly regarding the “Finance available” option, which often involves interest-based loans riba. When considering any large purchase, always seek out halal financing alternatives to ensure your transactions align with ethical principles.
Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.
IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Review & First Look
When you first land on Contemporarygardenrooms.uk, the immediate impression is one of professionalism mixed with a down-to-earth, transparent approach.
They quickly highlight their core offering: luxury garden rooms starting from £12,995, with nationwide installation.
The site is clean, easy to navigate, and clearly communicates their value proposition.
What Stands Out Immediately
- Clear Value Proposition: The headline “Luxury Garden Rooms starting from just £12,995” immediately sets expectations for price and quality.
- Emphasis on Craftsmanship: Terms like “unmatched craftsmanship” and “handcrafted” are used frequently, suggesting a focus on quality over mass production.
- Personal Touch: The mention of “A couple of Yorkshiremen running the show – no frills, no fuss” gives a sense of a small, dedicated team, which can be reassuring for customers looking for personalized service.
- Customer Testimonials: Prominently featured, these glowing reviews provide social proof and build trust right from the start.
Initial Impressions of Service
From the website’s narrative, Contemporary Garden Rooms aims to provide a hassle-free experience.
They state, “We listen, we design, we build,” emphasizing a client-centric approach. Cleanseforceuk.co.uk Reviews
The promise of “No hidden costs,” “Plastering & flooring,” and a “10yr structural guarantee” upfront suggests transparency and a commitment to a complete, ready-to-use product.
This direct communication, coupled with a focus on bespoke solutions, indicates they prioritize customer satisfaction and tailored outcomes.
User Experience and Navigation
The website’s navigation is intuitive, with a clear menu: Home, Garden Rooms & Prices, Inspiration Gallery, Why Choose Us, Our Process, and Get in Touch.
The “Book your free quote” call to action is consistently visible.
This straightforward layout makes it easy for prospective customers to find essential information quickly, from pricing models to their building process and past projects. Nctilesandbathrooms.com Reviews
The site also includes direct contact information phone number, facilitating immediate inquiries.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Features
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk offers a range of features designed to ensure a high-quality, bespoke, and hassle-free experience for customers seeking additional outdoor living space.
These features highlight their commitment to craftsmanship, durability, and customer satisfaction.
Bespoke Design & Customization
One of the strongest features is their commitment to fully customizable and bespoke garden rooms.
They explicitly state, “Whether you select an off-the-shelf solution or want something entirely bespoke – we ensure every space we create is a reflection of your personal style, with no complications.” This flexibility means customers aren’t confined to predefined models but can tailor the size, layout, materials, and finishes to their exact needs and aesthetic preferences. Myprivateproxy.net Reviews
- Tailored to Vision: Customers can literally “Tailor every aspect to your preference, creating a space that perfectly aligns with your vision.”
- Variety of Uses: The website lists over 20 potential uses, including:
- Garden Office
- Podcast Studio
- Home Spa
- Yoga Studio
- Guest House
- Gaming Room
- Art Studio
- Library
- Podcast Room
- Granny Annexe
- Garden Gym
- Reading Nook
- Craft Room
- Hobby Room
- Therapy Room
- Garden Workshop
- Garden Bar
- Teen Hangout
- Man Cave
- Garden Lodge
- Cinema Room
- School Classroom
- Photography Studio
- She Shed
- Storage Room
- Outdoor Kitchen
- Playroom
This extensive list demonstrates their capacity to design for diverse functional requirements, from quiet retreats to vibrant entertainment zones.
Quality Materials & Construction
The company prides itself on using high-quality materials and employing skilled craftsmen.
This commitment to quality is evident in several key areas:
- Handcrafted Excellence: They emphasize “Discover superior craftsmanship in every detail, from materials to the finishing touches.” This suggests attention to detail and traditional building methods.
- No Flat-Pack: Unlike some competitors, they clearly state “No flat-pack. Onsite installation.” This means the entire structure is “Expertly constructed at your location by skilled craftsmen, ensuring perfection and precision,” potentially leading to a more robust and personalized build.
- Superior Insulation: Their rooms are “insulated to the nines with Rockwool and Kingspan,” indicating a focus on energy efficiency and year-round comfort. This is crucial for a space intended to be used in all seasons.
- Cedar Cladding: The mention of “finished with cedar cladding for that touch of class” highlights the use of premium, aesthetically pleasing, and durable exterior materials.
Comprehensive Service & Guarantees
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk aims to provide a “full package” service, managing every step from concept to completion.
- Seamless Process: They offer a “Complete service from concept to completion, our team manages every step for a seamless & stress-free experience.” This includes site visits, design, construction, and clean-up.
- 10-Year Structural Guarantee: A significant assurance is their “10-year Structural guarantee,” which “Enjoy a decade of assurance with every construction, underlining our commitment to durability.” This provides long-term peace of mind for customers.
- Experienced Team: With “Over 30 years Dedicated experts,” they boast significant joinery expertise, ensuring a knowledgeable and capable team handles the project.
Financial Flexibility with caution
The website states “Finance available. Buy now, pay later. 360imprimir.es Reviews
Ease into ownership with our flexible payment plans, designed to fit your financial situation.” While this offers flexibility, as a Muslim professional, it’s crucial to highlight that such financing options typically involve interest riba. Interest-based transactions are forbidden in Islam due to their exploitative nature and the promotion of economic inequality.
- Caution on “Finance Available”: If considering their services, always inquire about the nature of the financing. If it’s interest-based, seek alternative methods of payment.
- Halal Alternatives:
- Saving and Cash Payment: The most straightforward and permissible method is to save up and pay in full.
- Qard Hasan Interest-Free Loan: If possible, borrow from family or friends on an interest-free basis.
- Murabaha Cost-Plus Financing: This is a permissible Islamic finance method where a bank or financier buys the asset in this case, the garden room and then sells it to you at a pre-agreed mark-up, payable in installments. This avoids interest.
- Ijarah Leasing: An Islamic leasing agreement where you pay rent for the use of the garden room, with an option to purchase it at the end of the term.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Pros & Cons
Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of any service is crucial before making a decision.
Based on the Contemporarygardenrooms.uk website, here’s a breakdown of their apparent pros and cons.
Pros
- High-Quality Craftsmanship: The website strongly emphasizes “unmatched craftsmanship” and “handcrafted” builds. They specifically mention using quality insulation like Rockwool and Kingspan, and cedar cladding, suggesting a commitment to durability and aesthetics. This is backed by customer testimonials praising the build quality and attention to detail.
- Bespoke & Fully Customisable: Unlike many modular garden room providers, Contemporary Garden Rooms offers truly bespoke designs. This means customers can tailor every aspect, from size and layout to finishes, ensuring the room perfectly fits their specific needs and garden space. This flexibility is a significant advantage for those with unique requirements or challenging garden layouts.
- Comprehensive Service Concept to Completion: They promise a “full package” service, handling everything from initial consultation, site visit, and design to construction and clean-up. This reduces stress for the customer, as they don’t need to coordinate multiple contractors. The process seems streamlined, as described by testimonials like “The whole process was easy.”
- Experienced Team: With “Over 30 years Dedicated experts” in joinery, the company highlights its deep expertise. This level of experience can lead to more efficient problem-solving, higher quality builds, and greater reliability. The owners, Lee and Liam, are presented as hands-on, directly involved in design and construction.
- 10-Year Structural Guarantee: This is a strong indicator of confidence in their build quality and offers significant peace of mind for the customer, protecting their investment for a decade.
- Strong Customer Testimonials: The website features numerous positive reviews from satisfied clients, highlighting aspects like politeness, hard work, speed of build, excellent communication, and breathtaking results. These authentic testimonials add significant credibility.
- Year-Round Usability: The emphasis on robust insulation means the garden rooms are designed for comfort in any season, making them a truly versatile extension of the home, rather than just a fair-weather space.
Cons
- Interest-Based Financing: The “Finance available” option is a significant concern from an Islamic perspective. While it offers financial flexibility, such arrangements typically involve interest riba, which is strictly forbidden in Islam. For Muslims, this means this particular payment method is not permissible and should be avoided.
- Impact: Engaging in interest-based transactions, even for a necessary purchase, can lead to spiritual and financial detriment.
- Alternative: Always seek halal financing options, like saving and paying in cash, or exploring Islamic financing models such as Murabaha or Ijarah from Sharia-compliant institutions.
- Potential for Higher Cost: The website transparently states, “Truth be told, we might not always be the cheapest, but our prices reflect the top-notch quality we deliver.” While this is understandable for bespoke, high-quality builds, it might be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers looking for the absolute lowest price point.
- No Explicit Pricing Tiers: While a starting price of £12,995 is given, the website doesn’t offer clear, tiered pricing for different standard sizes or designs. This means customers will likely need to go through the quoting process to get a precise cost, which might be less convenient for initial budget planning compared to sites that offer more transparent pricing structures.
- Geographical Reach Perceived Limitation: While they state “nationwide installation,” their base in Leeds and the mention of “our hearts are fullest when working in God’s own country” Yorkshire might give some distant customers the impression that they primarily serve the North, even if this isn’t strictly true. This is a minor point but could subtly influence perceptions.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Alternatives
When considering a significant investment like a garden room, it’s wise to explore alternatives to ensure you find the best fit for your needs, budget, and principles.
If Contemporary Garden Rooms doesn’t quite align, perhaps due to pricing, design philosophy, or the need to avoid interest-based financing, here are some categories of alternatives and specific considerations. Campthailand.com Reviews
1. Dedicated Garden Room Specialists
Many companies specialize in garden rooms, each with a unique selling proposition.
- Green Retreats: One of the largest and most established in the UK. They offer a wide range of pre-designed models, customization options, and often have showrooms. Their process is typically very streamlined, and they emphasize quick installation.
- Smart Garden Offices: Focus specifically on garden offices, offering a variety of sizes and styles tailored for professional use. They emphasize quality and functionality for a productive workspace.
- Booth Garden Studios: Known for their modern, high-end designs and focus on sustainability. They often cater to clients looking for a premium, architecturally designed garden space.
- Out of the Valley: Specialists in timber-framed buildings, often with a rustic or traditional aesthetic, focusing on natural materials and craftsmanship.
Considerations:
- Pricing: Compare their starting prices and what’s included. Do they offer a full package, or are there hidden costs for foundations, electrics, or interior finishes?
- Customization vs. Standard Models: Do you need a bespoke solution, or would a high-quality, pre-designed model suffice?
- Installation Process: Some offer rapid installation of pre-fabricated panels, while others build entirely on-site.
- Guarantees: Compare structural guarantees and warranties on materials and workmanship.
2. Local Builders/Joiners
For a truly personalized and potentially more cost-effective solution especially if you manage some aspects yourself, hiring local builders or joiners can be a viable option.
- Pros:
- High Customization: You can work directly with a builder to design exactly what you want from scratch.
- Local Knowledge: They might have better access to local suppliers and understanding of local planning regulations.
- Cost Savings: Potentially lower overheads compared to large companies.
- Cons:
- Project Management: You’ll likely need to manage the project more actively, coordinating different trades electricians, plasterers, etc..
- Varying Quality: Quality can vary significantly, so thorough vetting, checking references, and viewing previous work is crucial.
- No Standardized Guarantees: Guarantees might be less formal than those from specialized companies.
How to Find:
- Word-of-Mouth: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for recommendations.
- Online Directories: Check local trade directories like Checkatrade, MyBuilder, or Rated People.
- Portfolios: Always request a portfolio of their previous garden room or similar outdoor structure projects.
3. DIY / Kit Builds
For those with construction skills and a limited budget, a DIY kit build can significantly reduce costs. Syncfulfilment.nl Reviews
- Companies Offering Kits: Various timber merchants and online retailers offer garden room kits that come with pre-cut timber, instructions, and sometimes even windows and doors.
- Most Cost-Effective: Significant savings on labor costs.
- Flexibility: You can work at your own pace.
- Learning Experience: A rewarding project for skilled DIYers.
- Requires Expertise: Not suitable for beginners. you’ll need carpentry skills, basic building knowledge, and potentially experience with foundations and roofing.
- Time-Consuming: This will take much longer than professional installation.
- No Warranty on Workmanship: You’re responsible for the quality of the build.
- Additional Costs: You’ll need to source and pay for insulation, electrical work, plumbing if needed, plastering, and flooring separately.
4. Shepherd’s Huts & Mobile Garden Structures
If portability or a specific aesthetic is important, consider shepherd’s huts or other mobile garden structures.
* No Planning Permission: Often fall under permitted development rights as they are movable.
* Unique Aesthetic: Offers a charming, rustic, or whimsical look.
* Versatility: Can be moved if you relocate.
* Smaller Space: Generally much smaller than traditional garden rooms.
* Higher Cost per Square Foot: Can be surprisingly expensive due to their bespoke nature and mobility.
* Limited Customization: Less flexible in terms of layout and interior finishes compared to static garden rooms.
Halal Financing Considerations for All Alternatives
Regardless of the alternative you choose, the principle of avoiding interest riba remains paramount. When discussing payment with any provider:
- Always ask for cash prices or full upfront payment discounts.
- Avoid any offer that involves monthly payments with an APR Annual Percentage Rate or stated interest.
- If a company only offers interest-based financing, do not proceed with that option.
- Explore personal, interest-free loans from family/friends or Sharia-compliant financial products if you cannot pay upfront.
By thoroughly researching these alternatives, you can make an informed decision that best serves your practical needs and ethical principles.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Pricing
Understanding the pricing structure for a significant investment like a garden room is essential.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk provides some key information about their pricing philosophy, but it’s important to understand what’s usually included and what might add to the final cost. Fosscarrental.com Reviews
Stated Starting Price
The website clearly states: “Luxury Garden Rooms starting from just £12,995.” This gives potential customers a baseline idea of the minimum investment required for their garden rooms.
- What this likely includes: This starting price likely covers a basic, smaller model of their garden room, including the core structure, standard insulation, exterior cladding e.g., cedar, standard windows and doors, and on-site construction.
- Why it’s a “starting from” price: Garden rooms are highly customizable. The final price will increase significantly based on factors like:
- Size: Larger rooms naturally cost more due to increased material and labor.
- Design Complexity: Bespoke shapes, multiple angles, or unique architectural features will add to the cost.
- Interior Finishes: High-end flooring, specific plaster finishes, custom cabinetry, or integrated shelving.
- Electrical & Lighting: The number of sockets, internal/external lighting fixtures, and connectivity requirements.
- Heating & Cooling: Installation of air conditioning units or underfloor heating.
- Plumbing: If a WC, sink, or small kitchenette is desired, this significantly increases complexity and cost.
- Foundation Requirements: While they handle this, complex ground conditions might incur extra costs.
- Accessibility: Specific requirements like ramps or wider doors.
- Decking/Landscaping: Any surrounding decking, pathways, or landscaping features requested.
Transparent Inclusions
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk highlights several inclusions that suggest a transparent and comprehensive service:
- No hidden costs: This is a strong promise, indicating that the quoted price should cover all agreed-upon elements without unexpected surcharges.
- Plastering & flooring: This is a significant inclusion, as many garden room companies provide a shell that requires separate trades for interior finishing. Having this included simplifies the process for the customer.
- 10yr structural guarantee: While not a price inclusion, it signifies confidence in their build quality, reducing long-term potential costs for structural issues.
- No obligation quote: This allows potential customers to get a precise cost tailored to their specific needs without commitment.
Their Philosophy on Pricing
The company addresses pricing directly: “Truth be told, we might not always be the cheapest, but our prices reflect the top-notch quality we deliver.” This indicates they position themselves at the premium end of the market, prioritizing quality, craftsmanship, and a complete service over being the lowest-cost provider.
They also state, “And here’s the deal – we’re not here to break the bank. Let’s talk.
We’re open to working with you to find the sweet spot where quality meets affordability.” This suggests a willingness to discuss budgets and tailor solutions to find a balance, implying some flexibility in design choices to fit within a customer’s financial comfort zone. Modyolo.com Reviews
The “Finance Available” Option Crucial Caution
The website prominently mentions “Finance available. Buy now, pay later.
Ease into ownership with our flexible payment plans, designed to fit your financial situation.”
Crucial Islamic Perspective:
For Muslims, engaging in interest-based financing riba is strictly forbidden.
While this option may seem convenient, it is not permissible. Segafredo.it Reviews
- The Problem: Standard “buy now, pay later” schemes and consumer finance products almost invariably involve interest, which is considered exploitative and against Islamic financial principles.
- The Solution:
- Cash Payment: The most straightforward and permissible method is to save the full amount and pay in cash.
- Interest-Free Loan Qard Hasan: Seek an interest-free loan from family or friends if you need temporary financing.
- Islamic Financing: Explore Sharia-compliant financial products from Islamic banks or institutions, such as Murabaha cost-plus sale or Ijarah leasing, which are structured to avoid interest. These are usually available for larger assets like homes or cars but might be applicable for significant construction projects.
- Delay Purchase: If permissible financing is not available, it is better to delay the purchase until funds can be accumulated through halal means.
Recommendation for customers: When inquiring about a quote, explicitly state your preference for cash payment or ask if they have any interest-free payment options. Do not sign up for any finance agreement without thoroughly verifying it is 100% interest-free, which is rare in conventional finance.
Our Process: Building Your Garden Room with Contemporarygardenrooms.uk
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk outlines a straightforward, step-by-step process for acquiring one of their garden rooms.
This transparency helps potential customers understand what to expect from initial inquiry to final completion.
The process is designed to be “seamless & stress-free,” ensuring clarity at each stage.
Step 1: Send Your Enquiry
The journey begins with the customer reaching out. Buriedelephant.co.uk Reviews
The website offers clear calls to action like “Book your free quote” and “Get in touch.”
- Initial Contact: This can be via phone 07557 868 533 or through their online contact form.
- Information Gathering: During this stage, customers typically provide basic details about their interest, including location, desired use for the room, and any preliminary ideas about size or style.
Step 2: Site Visit & Survey
Following the initial inquiry, a crucial step is the in-person assessment.
- Personalized Assessment: “Someone came to the house initially to see the space, answer any questions and quote us,” as one testimonial notes. This ensures the design and build are perfectly suited to the specific garden.
- Technical Evaluation: The site visit allows the team to assess:
- Ground conditions for the foundation.
- Access to the build site for materials and equipment.
- Potential planning permission requirements though they indicate their buildings often fall under permitted development.
- Optimal placement for sunlight, privacy, and utility connections.
Step 3: No Obligation Quote
Based on the site visit and discussions, the company provides a detailed quotation.
- Transparent Pricing: The website emphasizes “No hidden costs,” suggesting the quote will be comprehensive.
- Tailored Proposal: The quote will reflect the specific design, size, materials, and features discussed, providing a clear cost breakdown. This is the stage where customers can discuss their budget and explore options to match quality with affordability.
Step 4: Design Your Garden Room
This is where the vision truly starts to take shape, with the company working closely with the client.
- Collaborative Design: They promise to “listen, we design, we build,” implying an iterative process where client input is central. They can create something “entirely bespoke.”
- Detailed Plans: This stage involves finalizing the layout, external appearance, window and door placements, interior finishes like plastering and flooring which are included, and electrical points.
Step 5: Construction & Installation
Once the design is approved and terms agreed upon, the physical build commences. Kitup.net Reviews
- Onsite Construction: A key differentiator is “No flat-pack. Onsite installation. Expertly constructed at your location by skilled craftsmen.” This ensures precision and custom fitting.
- Experienced Team: The “two down-to-earth Yorkshiremen” Lee & Liam and their team are described as “extremely hard working” and “professional.”
- Efficiency: Testimonials frequently mention the speed of construction, with rooms being built in “a matter of 5 days” or “just over a week.”
- Quality Materials: Use of Rockwool and Kingspan insulation, and cedar cladding is highlighted during this phase.
Step 6: Clean-up & Completion
The process concludes with ensuring the site is left tidy and the client is satisfied.
- Site Tidiness: Customers commend the team for being “very hard working and tidy.”
- Handover & Satisfaction: The goal is to deliver a space that is ready for immediate use and “a transformation of your lifestyle.” The 10-year structural guarantee begins from this point.
Beyond Completion
Their service often extends beyond the build, with testimonials noting prompt responses to post-completion queries and willingness to revisit for minor snags, even for distant clients.
“We had a couple of questions a couple of weeks after and they were quick to respond and offered to come back to demonstrate if needed…. We are in Buckinghamshire!!”
This structured process, coupled with their emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, paints a picture of a reliable and professional service provider.
How to Avoid Unscrupulous Contractors & Ensure Quality Builds
Investing in a garden room is a significant decision, and unfortunately, the construction industry can sometimes attract unscrupulous individuals. Chainclass.com Reviews
Ensuring you work with a reputable company like Contemporary Garden Rooms or any alternative requires due diligence.
Here’s how to protect your investment and ensure a quality build.
1. Thoroughly Research and Vet Companies
Don’t just pick the first option you find. Dedicate time to comprehensive research.
- Check Online Reviews: Look beyond just the company’s website. Use independent review platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, Checkatrade, MyBuilder, or local community forums. Look for consistent positive feedback over time.
- Red Flags: Numerous one-star reviews, identical-sounding reviews which could indicate fakes, or a complete lack of reviews are worrying signs.
- Actionable Tip: On average, companies with 4.5 stars and above on Google reviews tend to be more reliable. Aim for at least 50-100 reviews for a good sample size.
- Verify Business Registration: In the UK, you can often check company registration via Companies House. This confirms they are a legitimate, registered business.
- Check Trade Association Memberships: Reputable companies might be members of trade bodies like the Federation of Master Builders FMB or similar organizations. While not mandatory, it can add a layer of credibility.
- Request Proof of Insurance: Ensure they have Public Liability Insurance and Employer’s Liability Insurance if they have employees. This protects you if something goes wrong during the build.
2. Request Detailed Quotations & Contracts
Clarity in financial and scope agreements is paramount.
- Line-Itemized Quotes: A professional company will provide a detailed quote breaking down costs for materials, labor, foundations, electrical work, specific finishes, and any included guarantees. Avoid vague “ballpark” figures.
- Statistic: A recent survey by Construction Dive indicated that poor clarity in contracts and vague quotes contribute to 30% of project disputes.
- Clear Payment Schedule: Understand when payments are due e.g., deposit, first fix, completion. Be wary of companies demanding a large upfront deposit more than 20-25% is often a red flag.
- Comprehensive Contract: Ensure the contract clearly outlines:
- Scope of work, including detailed specifications of the garden room.
- Project timeline and key milestones.
- Payment schedule.
- Responsibilities of both parties.
- Warranty and guarantee details e.g., 10-year structural guarantee.
- Dispute resolution process.
- What happens if there are delays or changes to the plan.
3. Check References and View Past Work
Seeing is believing, and speaking to past clients provides invaluable insight. Jonnyssister.co.uk Reviews
- Ask for References: Request contact details for at least 2-3 recent clients.
- Contact References: Ask specific questions about:
- Their experience with communication.
- Adherence to the timeline and budget.
- Quality of workmanship and tidiness.
- How issues or snags were handled.
- Would they recommend the company?
- View Previous Projects: If possible, ask to see a completed garden room either in person or detailed photos/videos. This allows you to assess the quality of the finish, the materials used, and overall craftsmanship.
4. Understand Guarantees and Warranties
A robust guarantee is a sign of confidence in their work.
- Structural Guarantee: A 10-year structural guarantee, as offered by Contemporary Garden Rooms, is excellent. Understand what it covers e.g., frame, roof, foundations and what it excludes.
- Materials Warranties: Are the materials used covered by manufacturer warranties?
- Workmanship Warranty: Beyond the structural guarantee, what assurance do they provide on the general quality of the build and installation?
5. Be Wary of Red Flags
Trust your gut feeling and watch out for common warning signs.
- High-Pressure Sales Tactics: Rushing you into a decision or offering “today only” discounts.
- Demanding Full Upfront Payment: This is a major warning sign.
- No Contract or Vague Agreements: All significant work should be in writing.
- Unrealistic Low Prices: If a quote is significantly cheaper than others, question why. It could indicate low-quality materials, cutting corners, or hidden costs.
- Lack of Professionalism: Poor communication, missed appointments, or an unwillingness to answer questions thoroughly.
- Cash-Only Deals Without Receipts: This could indicate an attempt to avoid taxes and lacks a paper trail for your protection.
By following these guidelines, you significantly increase your chances of hiring a reputable contractor and enjoying a high-quality garden room that meets your expectations.
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk vs. Competitors
When evaluating Contemporarygardenrooms.uk, it’s helpful to compare their offering against other players in the UK garden room market.
While a direct “vs.” comparison requires knowing specific models and prices, we can generalize based on their stated philosophy and features. Pweventhire.co.uk Reviews
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk: The Bespoke Craftsman
- Key Strengths:
- Highly Bespoke: Their strong emphasis on “fully customisable” and “tailor every aspect to your preference” stands out. They aim to create a unique space reflecting personal style, rather than adapting a standard model.
- Onsite Build, Not Flat-Pack: The fact that they build “from scratch in our back garden” by “skilled craftsmen” directly on site, rather than assembling flat-pack kits, suggests a higher degree of craftsmanship, structural integrity, and custom fitting.
- Comprehensive Service: “From concept to completion,” including plastering and flooring, offers a truly ready-to-use space without the need for additional contractors.
- Experience & Guarantee: Over 30 years of expertise and a 10-year structural guarantee instill confidence in their build quality and longevity.
- Personal Touch: The “two Yorkshiremen” narrative suggests a more personal, hands-on service.
- Potential Trade-offs:
- Price Point: They admit “we might not always be the cheapest,” which is expected for bespoke, handcrafted work.
- Lead Times: Onsite construction might mean longer lead times compared to companies that pre-fabricate modules.
- Financing Riba Concern: The presence of “Finance available” is a significant concern for Muslim customers due to the likelihood of interest riba.
Competitor A: The Modular Market Leader e.g., Green Retreats, Smart Garden Offices
* Speed of Installation: Often use pre-fabricated panels, allowing for very rapid installation sometimes just a few days.
* Standardized Quality: Consistent build quality across their range of standard models.
* Transparent Pricing: Many offer clear price lists for various sizes and options, making budgeting easier.
* Showrooms: Large companies often have showrooms where customers can view different models in person.
* Volume Discounts: Potentially lower overall cost for standard models due to economies of scale.
* Less Customization: While they offer options, true bespoke design is limited. You're choosing from their existing range.
* "Kit" Feel: Some customers might prefer a more "built" feel rather than a modular assembly.
* Potential for Hidden Costs: Some basic models might exclude foundations, electrical hook-up, or interior finishes, which then need to be added.
Competitor B: The Local Builder/Joiner
* Ultimate Customization: Can truly build anything you can envision, often more flexible with design changes during the build.
* Local Relationship: Direct communication with the tradesperson, potentially building a strong rapport.
* Cost Efficiency potentially: If you manage some aspects yourself or find a highly efficient local team, costs might be lower.
* Project Management Burden: You might need to coordinate multiple trades electricians, plasterers, etc. yourself.
* Varying Quality & Reliability: Quality and professionalism can vary widely, requiring thorough vetting.
* Less Formal Guarantees: Guarantees might not be as comprehensive or long-term as those from dedicated garden room companies.
* No Showroom: You'll rely heavily on references and photos of past work.
Where Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Fits In
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk positions itself strongly in the bespoke, quality-focused segment of the market. They are likely for clients who:
- Value genuine craftsmanship over speed of installation.
- Need a highly customized solution that standard modular options cannot provide.
- Prefer a full-service approach, where the company handles all aspects of the build, including interior finishing.
- Are willing to invest in a premium product that is built to last and comes with a solid guarantee.
- Are less concerned with being the “cheapest” and more focused on “top-notch quality.”
For Muslim Consumers: The primary differentiator and concern, regardless of the competitor, will be the financing options. While Contemporary Garden Rooms offers flexibility with “finance available,” this requires careful scrutiny to ensure it’s interest-free, or a clear preference for outright purchase through halal means must be communicated. When comparing, explicitly ask all providers about interest-free payment plans or cash discounts to ensure compliance with Islamic financial principles.
How to Cancel Contemporarygardenrooms.uk Orders Hypothetical Scenario
While Contemporarygardenrooms.uk doesn’t directly offer subscriptions or free trials in the typical sense of a service, they do outline a process that involves a contractual agreement for building a garden room.
Canceling an order for a custom-built structure involves different considerations than canceling a subscription.
Since there’s no mention of a “cancellation policy” on their public website, the typical approach would be based on general contract law and their stated process. Ehsun.co.uk Reviews
Understanding the Order Process
Based on their “Our Process” section, an “order” or commitment is likely established after these key steps:
- Send your enquiry: Initial interest. No commitment.
- Site visit & survey: Assessment. Still likely no commitment.
- No obligation quote: A proposal is presented. No commitment yet.
- Design your garden room: This is where a formal agreement or contract is usually signed, outlining the design, specifications, timeline, and payment schedule. This is the critical point where an “order” is confirmed.
How to Potentially “Cancel” an Order Before or After Contract Signing
1. Before Signing a Contract / Accepting a Quote:
- Simply Decline: If you have received a quote and haven’t signed any agreement, you are under “no obligation” to proceed. You can simply inform Contemporary Garden Rooms that you will not be moving forward with the project.
- Communicate Clearly: A polite email or phone call stating your decision is sufficient.
- Example: “Thank you for the detailed quote and site visit. We have decided to go in a different direction at this time. We appreciate your time and effort.”
- No Financial Penalty: At this stage, there should be no financial penalty as no contract has been formed, and no work would have commenced.
2. After Signing a Contract / Formal Agreement Post-Design Approval:
This is where “cancellation” becomes more complex and potentially involves financial implications, similar to any construction contract.
- Review Your Contract Immediately: The very first step is to carefully read the contract you signed. It should contain clauses related to:
- Cancellation Policy: Any specific terms regarding client-initiated cancellations.
- Break Clauses: Conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement.
- Deposit and Payment Terms: What happens to any deposits paid.
- Costs for Work Commenced: If work has begun e.g., design fees, material ordering, or actual construction, you will likely be liable for costs incurred up to the point of cancellation.
- Notice Period: Any required notice for cancellation.
- Immediate Written Communication: As soon as you decide to cancel, inform Contemporary Garden Rooms in writing email is usually sufficient, but a formal letter might be advised for legal purposes. Clearly state your intention to cancel and the effective date.
- Example: “This letter/email serves as formal notification that we wish to cancel our garden room order, , effective immediately. We kindly request information on any cancellation fees or liabilities as per our signed contract.”
- Negotiate if applicable: Depending on how far along the project is, there might be room for negotiation regarding costs. If materials haven’t been ordered or construction hasn’t started, your liability might be minimal, potentially just design fees. If construction is underway, it will be more significant.
- Be Prepared for Financial Implications:
- Loss of Deposit: It’s common for deposits to be non-refundable if the client cancels after a contract is signed, especially if significant design work or material procurement has occurred.
- Costs for Work Done: You may be billed for any labor, design time, or materials already purchased or cut specifically for your project.
- Legal Action Rare but Possible: If you refuse to pay agreed-upon costs for work already undertaken, the company could pursue legal action to recover their losses. However, reputable companies usually prefer to settle amicably.
General Advice:
- Act Quickly: The sooner you cancel after signing, the less work will likely have been completed, and thus, your financial liability will be lower.
- Maintain Records: Keep copies of all communications emails, letters and contracts.
- Seek Legal Advice for complex situations: If the cancellation involves a large sum, or if the company is being uncooperative, consider consulting with a legal professional specializing in contract law.
Given the nature of bespoke construction, cancellation after a contract is signed is generally not free and will involve compensation for the company’s incurred costs and potential lost profit, as per the terms of your agreement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Contemporarygardenrooms.uk?
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk is a UK-based company specializing in the design, construction, and installation of bespoke, high-quality timber garden rooms for various uses, from home offices to leisure spaces.
Where is Contemporarygardenrooms.uk based?
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk is based in Skipton, near Leeds, in Yorkshire, UK.
However, they offer nationwide installation services.
What kind of garden rooms does Contemporarygardenrooms.uk offer?
They offer fully customisable timber garden rooms, designed to client specifications, which can be used for a wide range of purposes including home offices, art studios, gyms, therapy rooms, cinema rooms, guest houses, and more.
What is the starting price for a Contemporarygardenrooms.uk garden room?
Luxury garden rooms from Contemporarygardenrooms.uk start from just £12,995. The final price depends on the size, design complexity, and specific features chosen.
Does Contemporarygardenrooms.uk offer financing options?
Yes, Contemporarygardenrooms.uk states they offer “Finance available” and “Buy now, pay later” payment plans.
However, it’s crucial to verify if these options involve interest riba, which is forbidden in Islam.
It’s always best to seek interest-free financing alternatives or save for outright purchase.
Is the installation of the garden room included in the price?
Yes, the website indicates that installation is included, with their skilled craftsmen building the room on-site rather than assembling a flat-pack kit.
What is included in the Contemporarygardenrooms.uk service?
Their service is described as a “full package,” which includes a site visit and survey, a no-obligation quote, design, construction, installation, and clean-up.
Plastering and flooring are also stated as included.
What kind of guarantee does Contemporarygardenrooms.uk offer?
Contemporarygardenrooms.uk provides a 10-year structural guarantee on all their garden rooms, indicating confidence in the durability and quality of their construction.
How long does it take to build a garden room with Contemporarygardenrooms.uk?
While specific timelines vary by project, customer testimonials suggest that builds can be completed relatively quickly, with some reporting completion in “a matter of 5 days” or “just over a week.”
Do I need planning permission for a Contemporarygardenrooms.uk garden room?
The website doesn’t explicitly state whether their buildings require planning permission, but typically, garden rooms often fall under “permitted development” rights in the UK if certain criteria are met e.g., height, proximity to boundaries, not covering too much garden area. It’s always advisable for customers to check local planning regulations.
Are Contemporarygardenrooms.uk garden rooms insulated?
Yes, their garden rooms are designed for all-year-round comfort and are insulated with high-quality materials like Rockwool and Kingspan.
What materials are used for the exterior of the garden rooms?
The website mentions that their garden rooms are “finished with cedar cladding for that touch of class,” suggesting a durable and aesthetically pleasing exterior.
Can I customize the interior of my garden room?
Yes, Contemporarygardenrooms.uk emphasizes “fully customisable” options, allowing you to tailor every aspect of the interior to your preference, including finishes, electrical points, and layout.
Do they offer a free quote?
Yes, Contemporarygardenrooms.uk explicitly offers a “no obligation quote” after a site visit and survey.
How do I get in touch with Contemporarygardenrooms.uk?
You can contact them via phone at 07557 868 533 or through the “Get in Touch” section on their website, where you can likely find a contact form.
Are customer testimonials available on their website?
Yes, the Contemporarygardenrooms.uk website features numerous glowing testimonials from satisfied clients, highlighting their positive experiences with the company’s service and build quality.
What is their approach to pricing?
They state they “might not always be the cheapest, but our prices reflect the top-notch quality we deliver,” indicating a focus on premium quality over being the lowest-cost provider.
They are open to working with clients to find a balance between quality and affordability.
Do they use flat-pack kits for their garden rooms?
No, Contemporarygardenrooms.uk explicitly states “No flat-pack.
Onsite installation,” meaning their garden rooms are expertly constructed from scratch at your location by skilled craftsmen.
How does their design process work?
Their design process is collaborative, starting with an enquiry, followed by a site visit to understand your space and needs, a no-obligation quote, and then working with you to finalize a bespoke design that perfectly aligns with your vision.
What if I need to cancel my Contemporarygardenrooms.uk order?
While the website doesn’t detail a specific cancellation policy, typically, if you haven’t signed a contract, you can simply decline the quote.
If a contract has been signed, review its terms carefully as you may be liable for costs incurred e.g., design fees, materials purchased up to the point of cancellation.
It’s advisable to communicate any cancellation intentions in writing immediately.
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