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Last updated: 7 January 2025
How to become a builder
Builders are one of the most sought-after trades in the UK. From working on new developments and extensions to garage and loft conversions, now is the perfect time to join a growing industry. In this article we’ll show how to become a builder.
Why should you become a builder?
If you're looking for a new career, becoming a builder could be an excellent career choice for you in 2025. Builders can be well paid, can work on a wide variety of projects and are constantly in demand across the country.
One of the most attractive things about becoming a builder is the variety of work you’ll do.
That means, that as a builder, you’ll never be bored. The huge scope that falls under building work is enough to keep you busy and learning new skills for your entire career.
What does a builder do?
As the name would suggest, a builder's core objective is working on a wide variety of buildings.
Some of the roles involved with building work including being a groundworker or learning how to become a bricklayer. There is much more to being a builder than just building, however.
Common jobs that you’ll need to do as a builder include:
Planning, coordinating and supervising construction projects
Constructing new buildings, residential, commercial, and industrial
Interpreting blueprints, drawings and specifications
Repairing and renovating homes and other buildings
Building extensions, loft conversions, and garage conversions
Working on infrastructure projects, road, rail, bridges etc.
Within each of these areas are numerous specialist skills that you may wish to pursue as you gain more building experience.
Once you've trained and learned building skills, you may choose to join a construction firm, or you may choose to set up your own. Learning specialist skills on top of a standard building role will allow you to focus on a niche market and a set consumer audience.
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What is the difference between a builder and a master builder?
The main difference between a regular builder and a master builder is their level of skills and experience within the construction industry.
Master builders are registered with the Federation of Master Builders (FMB). Being a member of the FMB means that you must meet strict working standards and undergo regular checks and pass a stringent vetting process.
Master builders are often respected across the construction industry due to their professionalism and high-quality workmanship.
They can also provide their customers with various quality assurance measures such as:
Insurance backed guarantees
Recognised warranties
Dispute resolution schemes
Master builders are often trusted for their specific industry or local knowledge. For example, they may have expert knowledge of local building regulations, regional architecture or material expertise.
Additionally, if you choose to become a master builder, it may be worth specialising in one area of building expertise.
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How to train to be a builder
Training to become a builder can be done in one of several ways.
Enrolling on a college course
Becoming an apprentice builder
Learning on the job with experienced builders
These routes will provide you with the skills you need to become a builder. Choosing to do a college course will also give you the theoretical knowledge and qualifications should you wish to progress a building career further.
An alternative that is often considered by younger people is to become an apprentice. Choosing this route lets you earn while gaining hands-on experience working on construction projects.
The UK government has committed to construction apprenticeships, and has information and application methods online. Many building companies offer apprenticeship schemes with an element of college time.
What are the highest paid trade apprenticeships in the UK?
Looking for the highest paid apprenticeships in the UK? Chances are you're a more hands-on learner. Going to university means hours spent sitting through lectures and reading book after book. So, if this style of learning isn’t for you, why not consider a trade apprenticeship? The best
What qualifications does a builder need?
Whether you choose to go to college to become a builder opt for an apprenticeship, both routes will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge you need.
Some qualifications that are valuable in the building trade include:
NVQ Level 1 Certificate in Construction Skills
T Level in On-site Construction
Intermediate Apprenticeship in Construction
A CSCS card is another essential component of working in the construction industry. CSCS cards provide builders with access to construction sites and are recognised across the industry.
Have a read of our article on how to get a CSCS card for more detailed information.
How to gain building experience
Once you’ve qualified as a builder, you’ll want to begin work and start earning as soon as possible.
Building work can be found all over the country. So, wherever you live, you should be able to get some vital experience to grow your skills.
Contacting local construction companies about any vacancies they may have is a great place to start.
You could also try searching through online databases and job sites for local vacancies in the building trade.
In the meantime, why not try out your building skills at home. This is a great way to hone your talent so that you’re confident I your first building job.
You could even offer your skills to friends and family at a discounted rate. You may even find new work through their recommendations and think about starting your own construction business.
Become a builder with Checkatrade
Find more work in your local area as a member
Become a builder with help from Checkatrade
One of the best ways to gain more building work and get a new construction business going is by becoming a Checkatrade member.
In 2024 alone, there were over 1.3 million job searches for building work on our website.* That shows that there is good interest for construction services should you choose to become a builder.
All Checkatrade members get access to a range of exclusive benefits including:
Discounts on tools, equipment, materials, and workwear
Save on the cost of your public liability insurance
Guarantee for your work up to £1,000 (T&Cs apply)
Marketing materials to help grow your business
More leads that convert into paying customers
A trusted reputation with the Checkatrade tick
An online profile where you can promote your building skills
So what's stopping you from benefitting from being part of the home of quality tradespeople.
Starting your Checkatrade journey
Why should tradespeople join Checkatrade? Checkatrade is making it easier for reputable tradespeople to find work and take on more projects. In 2024 alone, there were over 22 million searches for skilled trade jobs on the Checkatrade website.* It highlights how popular the service has become with British homeowners.
FAQs
How do you become a master builder?
To become a master builder, you must pass a strict independent vetting process by the FMB.
You must be able to demonstrate that your work is of an exceptionally high standard. You must also have solid theoretical knowledge of construction processes, materials, health and safety, and industry standards.
Can an electrician become a builder?
Yes. Electricians often work closely with builders on construction projects and will usually have some building skills.
It is a natural step for an electrician to become a builder. They can then offer a more comprehensive service to their customers.
This is particularly the case when working on home extension projects that you don’t want to sub-contract work to other tradespeople.
What course should I study to become a builder?
As mentioned above, an NVQ Level 1 Certificate in Construction is a great place to start.
As you progress as a builder you may want to take further more advanced courses to help you specialise in more niche areas of the construction industry.
Checkatrade members get more for their money
Get offers and discounts on building essentials, tools and supplies
* Internal search data from users of the Checkatrade.com website in 2024
