Building in Bangkok

Building in Bangkok in comparison to western countries isn’t expensive and there are many competent craftsmen and builders available, but finding a reliable and conscientious one can be difficult. Most foreigners rely on word of mouth from other equally discerning owners. In Bangkok costs vary wildly according to the quality provided, delays and mistakes, materials used and, indeed, your skill at bargaining. Invariably it is those who have a Thai spouse a friend to help with the instructions, bargaining and supervision that get the most satisfactory results.

There are numerous suppliers of quality imported and local materials, light fittings, flooring, electrical fittings, decorative fixtures and so on. When building in Bangkok, a frequent complaint is the attention to detail from builders and craftsmen. Typically lots of effort is made on superficial appearance, but on closer inspection you discover sloppy work, messy painting, poor woodwork and sometimes downright stupidity, like putting doors on the wrong way so that light switches are obstructed.

If all goes off without a hitch, it can be a rewarding and fun project. On the other hand it can turn into a costly nightmare and if you aren’t careful.