When searching for builders in New South Wales it is important to make a shortlist of candidates. Once you have narrowed the list down to the builders who appear to provide the best service, it’s time to conduct interviews. You should take a structured approach to interviewing your potential builder, when the view towards matching a candidate to your specific project needs.
Experience & Practices
The first question you need to get out of the way relates to experience. You want to know how many projects the builder has completed. Take note of work over the last five years in your local area. Focusing on recent work will tell you if the builder works to current standards. How does the builder handle projects? It helps to know if a builder will play an active role in obtaining any necessary permits and working with suppliers.
Pricing Inclusions
Each builder works to different standards so ask about finishes and available upgrades. You will also need to prepare for problems that may arise during the build. Make sure that you discuss what is not included in your contract. Unexpected charges can put significant strain on your budget. Speaking of which, sticking within your budget is crucial. This is an area where having a builder who will work to stick within budget limits is beneficial.
Builder Connections
A good sign that a builder is a serious contactor is the number of connections he has within the industry. This will benefit you because it means the builder has already established good avenues for trade and quality materials. While you are discussing builder connections, ask about warrantees he offers. All these things will tell you that the builder is reliable and values a high standard of workmanship.
Project Managers and Contractors
Establish right away if you are speaking to the builder or a sales person. The relationship you have with a project manager is important for ensuring that the project is as stress free as possible. Find out who will be working on your build and their roles. If you can speak to the project manager directly, that’s even better. Once the sales person has secured your business, they’re not likely to have any further involvement in the project.
Detailed Contract
A good builder will provide a detailed contract and allow you to scrutinise and question those details. To go one step further, you should ask the builder if it is possible to have a lawyer look over the contract before you commit to services. A reputable builder will confidently allow time to go over the contract.
References
You are about to trust a builder with a major project. Before you do, ask for references. Being able to view previous projects is an essential part of the process. If you can speak to past customers, it will give insight into the experience you may have with the builder.
License & Insurance
You don’t want to hire contractors who do not possess a license or offer insurance. Your builder should be able to provide evidence of General Liability and home building compensation (HBC) cover at the very least if the project amounts to over $20,000 in work. You can find more information on the types of insurance that builders in NSW offer on the Fair Trade website.
It’s a good idea to try to get a feel for general communication style and ask follow-up questions. You want to ensure that you will have a great relationship with your builder. Will he contact you when decisions need made or use his own discretion? Does he provide assistance with choosing any finishes, such as cabinetry?
Finally, ensure that your contract allows for you to engage your own independent inspection company to assist you at each stage. If you need building inspections in New South Wales, give Houspect a call on 1300 258 789 today.