Alan Bender Ltd
4.5(35)Lexden and Braiswick, ColchesterGet directions
Alan Bender Ltd
Call to bookAbout
Alan Bender Ltd are builders based in Lexden and Braiswick, covering Colchester. They specialise in bathrooms and kitchens, renovations and extensions, design and planning approval, bespoke new homes, residential development and commercial building work.
Customers particularly value their clear communication, detailed planning, reliable teams and high-quality finishes. Their work is also praised for being tidy and considerate, with helpful aftercare and projects completed on time or ahead of schedule.
Services
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Renovations & Extensions
Design & Planning Approval
Bespoke New Homes
Residential Development
Commercial
Reviews
4.5
Alan Bender Ltd is praised for well-managed extensions, renovations, new builds and smaller building works, with customers valuing clear communication, detailed planning, reliable teams and high-quality finishes. Reviews often describe projects being completed on time or ahead of schedule, with tidy, considerate workmanship and helpful aftercare. A small number of reviews raise serious concerns about bathroom tiling, wet-room work and finish quality, so agreeing specifications and standards clearly is important.
Summarised with AI
My previous experience with ABL (who completely rebuilt my current home on time, within budget and with a high quality finish, using exemplary project management, organisational skills and reliable, experienced sub-contractors) led me to ask them to renovate and repaint my beach hut ready for sale, even though I believe this is not a usual project that they undertake. I asked them because they are now a company in whom I have 100% confidence. I would not be on site while the work was done but felt entirely happy handing over my keys knowing that the work would be carried out quickly, efficiently, without causing nuisance in a public area and that the end result would be as I wanted. As with my previous experience, dealing with the ABL staff (this time, Graham, Dan and office admin) was an absolute pleasure and the rebuilt hut side and repainting has completely rejuvenated and weatherproofed the building. Contracting a building company can be such a lottery, frequently involving early promises but actually resulting in a stressful, negative experience with delays and hidden costs, so ABL’s expertise, efficiency and ethical practice certainly warrants their charges and reputation. I don’t hesitate to recommend them wholeheartedly to anyone who wants the hassle and uncertainty removed from any building project they are currently contemplating.
I have been using Alan Bender Limited for the past 7 years, over 5 different projects. They have completely transformed my house. I couldn’t be happier. Projects completed with Alan Bender Limited: 1. House Extension This was the first big job they did for me, and it set the tone for everything after. They were recommended by my architect, which is always a good place to start. They initially sent me a checklist to fill in, which at first felt like an inconvenience. Then I realised how important this step was for ensuring the quote and downtime was accurate. The extension turned out exactly the way I hoped. Solid work, no drama, and it still looks great years later. 2. Internal Decorative Partitions When I wanted to break up some space inside the house, they took the concepts from our interior designers and built some smart looking partitions. They fitted in perfectly with the rest of the space. 3. Bay Window Roofs A smaller job, but still important. They replaced the bay window roof quickly and without any fuss whilst I was out the country for work. I trusted them to deliver their usual standard despite having no one onsite. It’s been completely trouble‑free since, and it tidied up the front of the house nicely. 4. Main Bathroom This was a bigger renovation, and Dan did a really nice job. The bathroom feels modern and well thought‑out, and the finish is spot on. It’s one of those projects where you notice the difference every day. 5. Utility Room (Just finished Jan 2026) The most recent job, and they’ve kept up the same standard. The new utility room is practical and looks great. Another great job by Dan. What I like most is that they’re easy to deal with, turn up when they say they will, and their work holds up over time. After five projects, I can say they’ve earned my trust, and I’m happy to recommend them to anyone. They are not a one-man band but a proper company. You are paying to have professionals on and off site focused on making your project a success. Managing Director Oliver is 100% customer focused. He wants to make sure every project is on time and on budget, whilst delivering the highest standards. Site Supervisor Adam can build anything. Brickwork, plasters, carpentry . . . he can do it all! The odd homemade bacon and egg sandwich kept him energised through the build. Dan did our bathroom and utility room. We couldn’t be happier with his approach, demeanour, and quality of work. I went to work each day and left him to it. Coming home to see the project progress was always a highlight. Project Manager Angie and Project Coordinator Kirstie were great to deal with. They were an integral part of each project. Thank you Alan Bender Limited for setting the industry standard.
We were very pleased with the work carried out by Alan Bender Ltd and would be more than happy to recommend them. We were given a detailed project plan for our extension and it was completed ahead of schedule to a very high standard. Our site manager Simon and his team were a pleasure to work with. Simon made the whole project run smoothly with his attention to detail & excellent communication. He suggested practical solutions to design issues encountered which resulted in an improved room layout and a more spacious entrance area. Throughout the process Angie, Gee & Kirstie were very helpful and dealt with any queries we had promptly.
From day one - our meeting with Graham to talk about what we wanted, our vision and how it could be done- all went very well and we felt that ABL listened and were very caring. When it came to the build itself, our site supervisor Bryan and his team excelled. They all worked so hard and their highly skilled workmanship was clear to see every day. We enjoyed having them around, making its of coffees, cold drinks and bacon butties. They felt like family/friends in the end. Bryan was very thorough and reassured us about what was happening every day and through each stage, and with lots of advice given, which was great. The build was right on time and right on budget and the team went above and beyond in every aspect of it. The standard of workmanship has been outstanding and we are so happy with the end result, our vision has come to life. A very big thank you to Bryan, John, Emilio and Craig and all those on site and in the office - all were helpful and very understanding of minor 'adjustments' along the way. We are so pleased, thank you again.
The team from Alan Bender were brilliant. The work was of a very high standard, it was carried out as per schedule, and the team were very friendly and helpful. I would definitely recommend Alan Bender.
I am delighted with the five-bedroom house that Alan Bender Ltd (‘ABL’) built for me on the former site of my late father’s chalet bungalow. At the quotation stage, I engaged only with Builders whose name I had seen at sites about the area over many years and in respect of whom I had heard only positive reviews. Right from the outset, the team at ABL were the most attentive to my precise requirements. Their offer was also the most comprehensive in terms of researching, illustrating and itemising firm costs for those elements rather than stating a monetary allowances per heading subject to later refinement. Surprisingly, and against the initial expectations from others, they were also cost competitive. Once instructed, ABL commenced their 29-weeks works programme as planned, despite very challenging on-site ground conditions, and remained either ahead of or on schedule until completion. Throughout the build the on-site team were always polite, considerate and were always totally approachable and accessible for my enquiries. Site Manager David, in particular, was excellent. They even managed to keep the neighbours happy throughout the build and no issues arose in that regard at all. There were, inevitably, some issues during the project, primarily around the Specification for the job, my intentions and recollections of discussions and their own interpretation of the contract wording. Each of those detail issues was, however, quickly considered and discussed, all quite amicably, and a mutually acceptable approach agreed. My learning from those incidents was that you can never spend too long ensuring that every finish element that is important to you is defined precisely in the Contract Specification, for the visibility of all of those down the line who will ultimately deliver it. Almost a year after occupation, and having been continually attentive to any ‘snagging issues’ as they arose throughout the year, ABL’s excellent team of decorators have just now completed their final sweep through of the house – and they too have completed a super job. I would have absolutely no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Alan Bender Ltd. to anyone looking to progress a building project – be that for small works, a single house such as my own or a larger development.
Jordan did a small job for us. He was on time, kept us informed of what he was doing and our little boy absolutely loved watching him! Thank you
We had an extremely disappointing journey with Alan Bender Ltd (ABL). At the initial meeting, Oliver Bender told us we would likely get cheaper quotes, but ABL would not be beaten on quality; we would pay for a higher level of service and finish. Unfortunately, only one part of this was true. We instructed the company to complete some refurbishments to the upstairs of our home, including constructing a new family bathroom, fitting the suite and tiling it. Some of the work has been completed to an ok standard. However, the list of issues is sadly a long one. Although our business with ABL is ‘finished’, the work is far from it. We raised concerns regarding the tiling from the first day the tiler ABL subcontracted for the job started. We were reassured by Oliver that the final finish would meet standards. Sadly it did not. We got second and third opinions from experts who all agreed the tiling was completed to a low standard. Rather than accept our view and make more than quick fixes to damaged tiles, Oliver Bender chose to spend £1500+ on an independent inspection of the tiles, to prove us wrong. This inspection agreed that the tiles needed to be fixed, yet ABL still did not offer to fix them. Instead they offered to rescind the final invoice. We took this option as after four long months of back and forth, we wanted to part ways. We are now left with an unfinished bathroom; damaged tiles, grout that has been deemed to sit too low in the shower, a leaking shower door, an incorrectly installed thermostat, untidy mastic - we could go on. The photos attached to this review speak for themselves regarding the finish ABL feel was acceptable. We will never use ABL again, and from our experience absolutely cannot recommend them.
We recently had the pleasure of having Alan Bender build a single-story extension on our home, and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results. From start to finish, with Graham helping to outline our plans and understand what we wanted to get out of the larger floorspace to the fantastic site manager, Brian. The entire process was seamless. Both Graham and Brian's professionalism and attention to detail were evident from the first day. They took the time to understand our vision and provided valuable insights that helped shape the project throughout the build, they were always available to answer questions and provide updates, which made us feel confident and informed every step of the way. One of the standout aspects of this project was the timeliness of the extension's construction. The timetable was always visible and was kept to exactly, it was impressive to just see how all of this was organised to such precision. That the team had to work around us still living in the house with two young children and a dog was even more impressive and the understanding that Brian and the team had around us being in their way made this change more stress free than I ever expected. When it comes to quality, Alan Bender exceeded my expectations. The craftsmanship is outstanding, and the materials used are top-notch. The extension blends seamlessly with my existing home, enhancing its overall aesthetic and functionality. After the build was completed, the aftercare provided by the team is equally impressive. They ensured that I was completely satisfied with the work and addressed any minor concerns promptly and professionally. It’s clear that they care about their clients and stand by their work. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Alan Bender for any project no matter how large or small. Their commitment to quality, timeliness, and customer satisfaction is truly commendable, and I am grateful for the wonderful extension that has transformed my home for my family. Thank you, Brian, Graham and the entire Alan Bender team!
Ollie and his team are very professional, Friendly and Efficient. I couldn’t recommend them enough, Just and all round good building company 👍
Highly recommend this builder. Great planning and management of our double storey extension. Stayed within planned timeline, of 12 weeks, even though they needed to work a couple half days on Saturday, due to bad weather. As there were working from home considerations to take into account. People who have seen the extension have also loved the work done and have also commented that they didn't realise it wasn't part of the original house, which a credit to the quality of work received by ABL.
Fantastic builders, definitely recommend. Very thorough, proactive and forward thinking and the team were great guys. They finished early too! Thank you ☺️
We have worked with Alan Bender Ltd. on many projects. We have always found them to be very professional with a dedicated team of administrators in the office and a team of builders on site who together have always done a brilliant job.
Incredible team. Provide insane quality builds and never miss anything. Always had great communication with them and cannot recommend enough!
Dealt with Oliver over a number of years now, great company to work with, highly recommend.
The team from ABL have just completed a second large project for us and we are just as delighted as last time. We chose to work with the team again because of their professionalism, project management and communication. The skilled site and office teams and contractors (many of whom worked on our first project) tirelessly worked together to ensure that the project was delivered on time. When challenges arose, they managed them. It’s been a real pleasure to have the team with us for the last 10 weeks. Everyone without exception was helpful, kind and respectful but a special mention goes to our site manager Simon who kept everything together. We will continue to recommend the team to anyone asking for a great builder. They are not the cheapest, but the difference in price is squarely made up in the value delivered. Thank you!
Amazing experience with this company. Utterly professional, I was blown away by how curtous and efficient the team was. We are really happy with all the work carried out. Will definitely use them again in the future.
We recently endured a serious flood to the ground floor of our home due to a faulty hot water cylinder. Oliver and his team took complete control of everything and returned our home to just like it was before the flood. Whilst our insurers were absolutely useless, Alan Bender Ltd could not have done more for us by not making a drama out of a crisis!
We purchased our house through Alan Bender Limited. We secured the property before any choices had been made so we had the opportunity to pick colour schemes/ kitchen/ bathroom and floorings ourselves. The whole process has been seamless. Natalie in the office was always available to answer any questions, she was professional and nothing was ever too much effort. Adam our site manager went above and beyond to help us with the ‘little bits and last minute adjustments’ and was always welcoming when we arrived on site for another look! Oliver kept us updated throughout and if anything from the pre- given timeline changed, he would call or email to make sure we were aware. Our house is now our home and we so thankful for the work Alan Bender Limited did. We would happily recommend this company.
We have had an excellent extension from Alan Bender and are very happy with it. I would like to give more than 4 stars but to me 5 stars would be perfection and we have had the odd issue both during the build and after, which were dealt with promptly. Part of the problem I feel is that the work has been in the main to a very high standard meaning any small niggles are noticeable. I have no hesitation in recommending to anyone who asks for a builder. I feel one of the extra benefits is a degree of project management that other builders don't tend to offer. Unfortunately there is no option to give 4.5 stars
We are very happy we went with Alan Bender Ltd for our complete house renovation. The management of the project was first class, lead by one of their supervisors Simon Andrews. I’m sure all their site supervisors are good but Simon was excellent for us and I would highly recommend requesting him for your project. His team were also excellent, always on time and very friendly to have about on site. Through Simon’s management, the project finished a week ahead of schedule. We used a number of our own connections for things like flooring, kitchen worktops, decorating etc. so can’t comment on these services but for the building work itself (including electrical, plumbing, bathroom fitting, and tiling) we are very happy and would absolutely recommend.
I was impressed with the customer service approach from Alan Bender Ltd initially from the follow up e mail (Julie) and phone call ( Oliver) after the quote was submitted to me for a total re roof of a grade II listed farmhouse; this is one of the reasons I chose to use this Company. I was aware that some roof timber may need replacing once the original roof tiles were removed and this was repaired/rectified quickly and efficiently. I was kept informed throughout the process and the work has been carried out to a high standard. Any queries I had either via e mail or telephone, were actioned and replied to quickly. At the completion of the work, the area was left clean and tidy. I have no hesitation at all in recommending Alan Bender Ltd.
Just had a complete kitchen refurb involving new units, appliances, floor and ceiling. Right from the initial enquiry the whole team have been responsive and reliable. We were kept informed of what was happening at all times and everyone involved was thoroughly professional in their approach. Very happy customers and would definitely use again for future projects! Special thanks to Graham, Dan and Julie!
We emailed them for a quote or ballpark figure on the construction of a simple porch to standard construction. They required that we obtain an architect drawing before they could even quote us - which other reputable builders do not request for something so standard within regulations. Rather than giving us even a ballpark they responded arrogantly saying "We are likely to be more expensive than other smaller builders that take on this type of project".
We booked a month in advance to get a good table for a special Valentine's Night. We ended up sitting in a corridor surro8nded by beer drinkers virtually in the bar. When we objected all we got was a 'sorry we are very busy' and no apology at all . That were, but having driven from Colchester especially I can only rate service as one star, venue as one star and the food three, even though things were disappearing off it at 8pm when we got there. Second time there and the last. Sorry
I recently had a new bathroom fitted by Alan Bender Ltd. They weren't my cheapest quote but I am so glad that I got them to do the work. From the moment Oliver came to have a look, I knew I wouldn't have any problems with the company or the work. Oliver and his whole team really care about what they do and doing a quality job. A great company, will be using again.
Alan Bender Ltd carried out various refurbishment works on my cottage including new electrics, kitchen, bathroom, rendering and decorations. I was impressed with the company from the outset and they were very professional throughout the process. I am even happier with the end result and the quality of work exceeded my expectations. I would have no hesitation in recommending them for similar works.
Finding a builder can be very stressful but Alan Bender Ltd made the process straight forward from the start. Oliver Bender and his staff have been extremely helpful and professional throughout. They kept us on schedule and delivered us the perfect build. It was refreshing dealing with a proper company with office staff who can answer all our questions. Oliver Bender is a credit to the industry and the phrase ‘you get what you pay for’ has never been so true. Their business philosophy is in my opinion, a recipe for success. This is because they are hands on and client focused, which is a rare thing in the building industry! The site supervisor Adam, became part of the family for 2 ½ months and was always there to listen to my comments and action my additional requests. My son even asked where he was after the last day of the build, I believe ‘Adam gone’ was the phrase. I have never met such a versatile builder before, he is a credit to ABL. Sarah was fantastic from the start, she always provided answers quickly and no question was too much trouble. I received very positive feedback from my neighbours and others regarding their work and their team’s conduct onsite. Everyone who came onsite during the build mentioned how tidy and organised they were. I would recommend them in a heartbeat.
We used Alan Bender Ltd to carry out some fairly complicated internal alterations to our home which included a garage conversion, a staircase removal and relocation, a tricky wall and ceiling removal as well as a new roof. Oliver gave us so much confidence from the very beginning. He set out a schedule of works to be undertaken by his team and this was adhered to with them only going a day over. They were efficient and tidy as far as they possibly could be and Oliver came regularly to oversee how the project was coming along and to keep us fully informed of how the project was progressing. With a task like this there were obviously going to be issues which arose along the way but these were dealt with quickly and efficiently by Oliver and the team. We are very pleased with the overall renovations and we would have no hesitation in recommending Alan Bender Ltd.
We commissioned Alan Bender builders to combine our kitchen and separate dinning room into a kitchen diner. Convert the heating system to gas and remove the original oil tank. The cloakroom was extended and made into a wet room with under floor heating. Oliver provided a optimistic schedule of work for the initial stages. The builders were always onsite every day promptly before their 7:30 start. I used the opportunity to discuss the days work before they started to ensure everything was proceeding as we required. Oliver was able to ensure that the various subcontractors, eg plumbers, electricians, flooring fitters arrived on the days they were planned for. As we had a various door ways adjusted in every room downstairs the dust inevitably got every where. The kitchen fitting overran by a week or so, but we preferred having a neat finished. The overall finish was good and have recommended them to friends who are having similar alterations made.
Oliver carried out major works on our house - a 2 storey extension on the back and single storey at the side. From the outset Oliver was fabulous - polite, approachable, offering sensible ideas and quick to respond to questions. Oliver produced a planned schedule of works outlining what would happen and when, and kept to this brilliantly. After the build was complete he was quick to resolve any outstanding issues. Highly recommended. If we were to to the work again we would make the same decision and appoint Oliver.
Alan Bender Ltd completed a bathroom refurbishment for me. Outstanding service, professional, friendly and thorough throughout the works I had done. I would highly recommend Alan Bender Ltd. Thank you Sheila.
Very poor quality! Bathroom floor was done 3 times unsuccessfully; we ended up asking him to leave as it was obvious he had no idea how to do a wet room. Electrics had to be replaced after a small fire; incorrect lighting was used in the bathroom (we were very lucky not to loose the house to fire) Plaster and woodwork has not lasted long and now look awful! I would never recommend!
Location
Lexden and Braiswick, Colchester, CO3 9TU Get directions
Opening times
- Monday8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- SaturdayClosed
- SundayClosed
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