On Tue, 26 Nov 2013 21:27:55 +0000, Vir Campestris
wrote:

What's the usual schedule on a sub-10k job?

The builder has just dropped a schedule on us, and I'm not happy with
it. It was not agreed in advance.

If you don't have a written contract you need one quickly. The
standard one would be the Joint Contracts Tribunal "Building Contract
for a home owner/occupier who has not appointed a consultant to
oversee the work" You can find a copy at
http://www.sandwell.gov.uk/download/...wnerocc upier

The payment schedule is whatever you and the builder decide but should
be tied to measurable milestones such as foundations installed and
inspected. The builder should be familiar with the JCT contract.
Normally 5% of the contract value should be withheld at the end for a
period of three months to ensure any small defects discovered after
work is complete are remedied.