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Comparing Local Conservatory Companies
Comparing Local Conservatory Companies
A conservatory is one of the largest investments you will make in your home. However, the difference in quality between companies can be vast. When comparing local conservatory companies, you need to look beyond the bottom-line price and ask: “Who is actually building it?”
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Staffing | Do they employ their own builders? Sub-contracting groundworks is the #1 cause of delays. |
| Planning | Do they handle the Planning Permission and Building Regs for you? |
| Reputation | Ignore website testimonials. Check Which? Trusted Traders or Checkatrade. |
Table of Contents
1. The “Employed Staff” Difference
This is the single most important question you can ask a conservatory company: “Who will dig the foundations?”
Many double glazing companies are just sales outfits. They sell you the dream, then sub-contract the hard work (digging, bricklaying, screeding) to the lowest bidder. This often leads to disjointed schedules and no accountability.
✅ The KJM Difference
At KJM Group, we do things differently:
- Employed Builders: Our building teams are full-time employees. We control their schedule and their quality standards.
- Employed Fitters: The team installing the frames works for us, not an agency.
- Specialist Subs Only: We only subcontract highly regulated trades—Electrical (NICEIC) and Plumbing (Gas Safe)—because you want specialists for safety.
2. Full Planning Service
Navigating the local planning portal can be a nightmare. A reputable conservatory company shouldn’t just leave you to figure it out.
We offer a comprehensive planning service. Whether you are in a conservation area in Winchester or a standard plot in Andover, our team handles:
- Planning Permission applications.
- Building Regulations compliance (calculating U-Values and structural loads).
- Water Authority build-over agreements.
3. Understanding Part L Regulations
Since the changes to Building Regulations Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) in June 2022/2023, conservatories and extensions must meet stricter thermal standards.
A “cheap” conservatory often ignores these rules, leaving you with a freezing room in winter. At KJM, we ensure all projects meet the required U-Values using high-performance glass and insulated bases.
4. Local vs. National Companies
Should you go with a big national brand or a local specialist? Here is a direct comparison.
| Feature | Local (KJM Group) | National Chains |
|---|---|---|
| Service | Personalised. You can visit our showroom and meet the team. | Often call-centre based. Hard to speak to the same person twice. |
| Price | Competitive. Lower overheads mean better value. | Often higher to cover TV ads and commission-only sales teams. |
| Accountability | High. Our reputation in Hampshire is everything. | Lower. You are just a number in a national database. |
5. Verifying Reputation
Don’t just take our word for it. In the digital age, a company’s reputation is public record. When vetting installers, look for third-party verification:
- Which? Trusted Traders: This is a rigorous assessment, not just a paid listing.
- Checkatrade: Look for recent, detailed reviews with photos.
- Google Reviews: Pay attention to how the company responds to any negative feedback.
6. Comparing Quotes Like a Pro
Always obtain three detailed written quotes. When you line them up, check for these common “hidden extras” that budget companies leave out:
⚠️ Quote Checklist: What’s Missing?
Ensure your quote includes:
- Waste Removal: Skips and grab lorries are expensive. Is disposal included?
- Making Good: Will they plaster the internal walls? Will they add skirting boards?
- Electrics: Are sockets and lights included, or just “provision for”?
- Flooring: Is the final floor screed included?
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. Many conservatories fall under “Permitted Development” rights. However, if you are in a conservation area or the extension is large, you might. KJM offers a full planning service to check this for you.
Employed builders work directly for the company. This ensures accountability, better communication between the office and site, and consistent quality standards that subcontractors may not always adhere to.
Typically 4-6 weeks for a standard build, depending on the complexity of the base work. Weather can impact the initial groundwork stages.
Yes. We provide a comprehensive 10-year guarantee on our installations. Because we have been trading since 1982, you can be confident we will be here to honour it.
📚 Knowledge Hub: Expert Advice
Further reading for your extension project:
- Refurbish or Rebuild? Assessing your existing base.
- Roof Options: Why you should avoid “wrap-over” roofs.
- Finance Guide: Understanding the true cost of credit.
Start Your Project with Confidence
We have been building in Hampshire since 1982. No pressure sales, just expert advice and employed craftsmen.
Get a Free Design Quote
Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.
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