Building Trust One Brick at a Time

When it comes to building homes and extensions that stand the test of time, few names locally carry the reputation and respect that M J Goodall Bricklaying Services does. Run by seasoned tradesman Martin Goodall, the company has quietly become one of the most trusted local building firms across Burton-on-Trent, Swadlincote and the surrounding area.

Sitting down with Martin reveals exactly why his business has earned such a solid reputation across the area - calm, straight-talking, and passionate about quality, he’s the kind of builder people feel instantly comfortable trusting with their home.

 

A Bricklayer's Beginning

Martin’s journey into the building trade began back in 1989, when he first trained as a bricklayer with a firm in Foston. But bricklaying was just the start. “I was doing everything,” he explains. “Roofing, drainage, fencing - I learnt the lot. It really set the foundations, no pun intended, for what I do now.”

That early versatility shaped the business Martin would eventually grow into, offering far more than just bricklaying. Today, his team handles everything from small garden walls to major home extensions, new builds, and even barn conversions.

 

 

Taking the Leap

 

Like many great entrepreneurial stories, M J Goodall Bricklaying Services began with a leap of faith.

 

“I was working for other people and seeing the rewards they were getting,” Martin recalls. “Then I got offered the chance to build five houses. It was a big job - not just a wall or a patio - and I thought, shall I take the plunge?”

 

And so he did. In 2002, Martin stepped out on his own. It was a risk, but it paid off. That first project opened the door to what would become a steady stream of work - mostly through word of mouth, a fact that Martin is rightfully proud of.

 

“I've never done massive advertising. People just pass my name on - and to me, that's the best way to get work.”

 

 

A Team That Builds More Than Just Walls

 

Today, Martin runs two teams: one that focuses on new builds, and another, led by Martin himself, that handles domestic extensions - anything from a few weeks to year-long projects.

 

The standout favourites? Barn conversions.

 

“I’ve done three now,” Martin says with a spark in his eye. “Taking an old, run-down cow shed and turning it into a beautiful home - you see the transformation from start to finish, and that’s something special.”

 

He’s also noticed a definite trend in recent years: homeowners want more open-plan living spaces, often knocking through multiple rooms and extending out to create one large, bright kitchen and lounge area. It’s a far cry from the conservatory craze of the early 2000s, and Martin is fully on board.

 

“It’s a challenge, sure - especially if people are still living in the house while we’re doing it - but it’s what people want right now.”

 

Pride in Every Brick

 

One of the things that really sets Martin apart is his straight-talking honesty and professionalism - values he’s built the business around.

 

“I was taught from day one: do it right the first time,” he says. “If you cut corners, you’ll only have to come back and fix it. And I’m upfront with people. If I know I can’t start for three months, I’ll tell them. I’d rather they know the truth than feel misled.”

 

That level of communication carries through every stage of a job - from quotes and timescales to updates during the build. He even pre-warns customers when other trades like plumbers or plasterers will be on site, especially if their presence will disrupt the day.

 

“It’s like a big cog,” Martin explains. “If one tradesperson is delayed, it slows everything. But I always let the customer know - I never leave them in the dark.”

 

 

Advice from the Expert

 

Martin is a strong believer in realistic expectations, especially when it comes to pricing and timelines.

 

“No builder can predict what’s under the ground,” he says. “You could dig and find unstable soil or even an old well. It’s important to factor in unknowns.”

 

His advice? Get multiple quotes, but don’t just choose the cheapest. And always check recommendations - ideally from someone you know and trust. Most importantly, don’t pay large amounts up front. “There should be stage payments as the work progresses. That protects both of us.”

 

He also has advice for anyone considering moving vs. extending: “If you love where you live - the neighbours, the area - extend. It’s less upheaval and adds value to your home. Moving can be way more expensive when you factor in fees, stamp duty, and all the rest.”

 

 

Big Builds and Bigger Dreams

 

One standout project Martin and his team are currently working on is a grand, high-spec home in Ashby - easily the most ambitious and luxurious project they’ve ever taken on. “It’s incredible,” he says. “We've been on it for two years now. It’s the biggest thing we’ve done - and probably the best too.”

 

Another exciting project on the books is a farmhouse renovation, as well as a sunroom extension in Leicestershire - smaller in scale, but no less rewarding.

 

For Martin, each job - big or small - is an opportunity to deliver quality work with integrity, and to leave a lasting impression.

 

 

Reputation Built on Trust

 

When asked what sets M J Goodall Bricklaying apart from other builders, Martin doesn’t hesitate: “Top quality workmanship, being honest, and respecting the customer’s home.”

 

That last point might seem simple, but it’s surprisingly rare.

 

“If I’m knocking walls down in your house, I want you to come home and still feel like you’ve got a home. We always keep it tidy and treat it with respect.”

 

It’s those little touches - combined with top-notch workmanship - that turn first-time customers into lifelong clients.

 

 

Thinking of a Building Project?

 

If you're considering an extension, a new build, or even a full renovation, Martin’s advice is clear:

• Do your homework.
  
  

• Hire a great architect with vision.
  
  

• Speak to people who’ve had similar work done.
  
  

• And most of all - find someone you like and feel comfortable having around.
  
  

Because let’s face it, when someone’s working in your home for weeks or months, trust matters.

Interested in Working with M J Goodall Bricklaying Services?

 

You can see examples of Martin’s work and get in touch through the M J Goodall Bricklaying Services Facebook Page, where he regularly shares updates on ongoing builds. Or, if you’d prefer, Martin is happy to provide details of past projects so you can speak directly to happy customers and see the quality for yourself. You can call Martin on 07801 351879.

 

“We’re just a family-friendly local business that delivers high-quality work,” Martin says.

And judging by everything we’ve seen - he’s absolutely right.