Building your new home is a very exciting time. Whether it’s your first time building or you are a seasoned professional, choosing a residential builder to bring your vision to life is one of the most important decisions that you will make through the entire building process.
Your builder will be responsible for the physical building of your home and all the finer details that come with a new build. It is no surprise that you should feel comfortable and confident in your builders abilities and In addition, feel like you can easily communicate with them throughout the entire process. But how do you know if you are engaging with a quality builder? By using our top tips, we know you will be taking the first steps to an enjoyable building process.
Tip 1. Is your Builder a Registered Practitioner?
The most important tip for hiring a builder is to ascertain whether they are a Registered Building Practitioner with the relevant state or territory building authority. Within Victoria, all Residential builders must be registered with the Victorian Building Authority. This information can be found on the Victorian Building Authority website under Find a Practitioner.
Tip 2. It is all in the details
When you sit down with your potential builder, ensure that you give them as much detail as possible when describing what you are looking for. We suggest you use visual aids of what you envision as examples where possible such as photos, finishes, sketches, etc. Not only does this set a clear expectation it allows the builder to get a solid understanding of the scope of the project. This will allow your builder to accurately set expectations around time frames and budget for the project.
Tip 3. Look For Recommendations
Nothing speaks more highly of a builder’s ability than word of mouth. Please ensure that you ask around! Reach out to trusted family members and friends for their experiences and recommendations. In addition, ask your potential builder for references from previous projects and check relevant review sites such as google reviews and facebook reviews. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask to see examples of their previous work to ensure that they will be a good fit for your desired building style and vision.
Tip 4. Understand Your Inclusions
This is one of the most common misunderstandings when a project is quoted. It is imperative to understand what your inclusions and exclusions are. If this is not understood, project budgets can very quickly blow out and lead to multiple cost variations. To avoid this ensure that you clearly understand what is included when you receive a quote. Write down a list of questions if necessary, for example:
- What materials are included or additional?
- How many hours of labour are included?
- Does the quote include/exclude GST?
- What fixtures and fittings are included?
- Does the build include landscaping?
- What appliances have been allowed for?
- How long is the defects warranty period?
If there is anything in the quote that you don’t understand please ask questions and seek clarification before signing any agreements.
Working on a residential project is a rewarding experience when you hire a reputable builder. We work closely with all of our residential building clients to ensure that all expectations are met throughout the project. By following the above tips, we are confident that you will find the right fit for you and your home. If you are looking for a residential builder, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any specific questions or if you would like a quote for your project.
