If you’re new when it comes to building your own home, the thought of selecting a builder can be
overwhelming. With a wide range of companies to choose from, each claiming to be the best for
your project, you’ll need to quickly weed out the unsuitable ones to find the builder you need.
Below, you’ll find some go-to questions to help you compare and select with ease.
Are you licensed, insured and registered?
If the answer to any of these is no, or they can’t provide proof, strike the business off your list and
move on.
Can you provide a reference from a client?
An attractive website or a friendly salesperson doesn’t mean that a business is perfect. As this
builder is going to be a big part of your life for the duration of the project, you’ll want to make sure
you’re picking a team that is right for you. Speaking to a client is one of the best ways to get a true
sense of a company and how they operate.
Could you provide me with an itemised quote?
A new home comes with a big price tag, so you’ll want to know exactly what you’re getting for your
money. For your quote, you’ll want to receive one that covers both materials and labour. It’s
important to shop around to see what kind of inclusions are being offered across the board and
what are non-negotiables for you.
How is payment completed?
Don’t proceed with companies that expect a large sum all at once. Set up some payment
expectations where payments are made at key stages where you can see that work is actually being
carried out.
Can you set a timeframe for completion?
Timelines are never definite when it comes to projects that rely on situations out of our control such
as weather. However, a builder should be able to give you a realistic timeframe that will allow for a
couple of delays. As well as an end date, establish progress milestones so you can be sure each stage
of your home is given the attention and care it deserves.
How long will you guarantee your work?
While it may look great when you decide to move in, it’s important to cover yourself if anything goes
wrong shortly after building completion. Do your research to see what the standard period is in your
state.
What next?
Once you’ve chosen your builder, keep those lines of communication open. You’ll want to be
informed on the progress of the build as well as any hiccups or delays that are foreseen for your
project.
For further peace of mind and to ensure everything goes according to plan, we recommend home
owners get inspections completed at the important stages of construction. This ensures that the
quality of the workmanship and the materials used are creating a structurally sound property. By
taking a look at these important stages, you get to see part of the construction that will be hidden
from view once the project is complete.
