7 Questions to Ask your Sydney Builder
15 January 2015
You're on the hunt for a new home builder. Not only that perhaps you are in the position of a lifetime, and are ready to build your dream home. Whatever your situation,you'll be on the look out for a reputable Sydney builder who will be able to deliver.
Delivery means not only ensuring that quality is achieved, and that construction is advancing according to plan; but also that you have engaged with a builder who is adequately insured and financed and able to see your new home right through from design until completion.
It's sometimes tricky to know where to start when selecting a builder. To help, we've compiled a list of 10 quality questions to ask your new home builder. Granted, these questions will also apply if you're looking for a builder to help with repairs, extentions.. the lot!
1. Are you a licenced builder?
The very first question you should ask is around licencing. Sounds silly, but you'd be surprised how many renogade builder there are out there. Despite appearances of even some of the most exclusive seeming building companys this is well worth the check-up. You can search state-wide by entering the company name and 'check builder's licence'.
2. Have you ever been declared bankrupt?
This is important imformation for a number of reasons. First, you want to feel confident that your builder is well financed to supply
and secure all of the materials and resources you need to complete your job, to the highest quality. A company that has been bankrupt, or is experiencing cash-flow problems could leave you mid-project unable to complete construction as agreed.
Asking this question is one of the easiest ways to check they're able to manage their finances, and the job of building your brand
new home.
3. Are you fully insured?
It's imperative that your new home builder issues you with a Certificate of Currency for Home Indemnity Insurance before any payments of funds are exchanged. This covers you for financial loss should your builder become insolvent, pass away or leave suddenly.
4. Who is the construction supervisor?
Why is this so important? Well, as a general rule: when there's a supervisor on-site, that's when the highest quality of work is performed. You want someone who is experienced, with a fantastic portfolio of work under their belt to be motivating and managing tradesmen, and keeping things running smooth.
5. What is your building maintenance period?
A builder agrees to perform building maintenance for a period of time after the property is handed over to you. Most experts recommend a six month maintenance period for residential units and 12 to 18 months for commercial properties.
6. Who does your trade base consist of?
A consistent and reliable trade base is essential to making certain the job will be high quality come what may. It's a great idea to ask about the credentials of their main suppliers, and trade base.
7. Do you have a portfolio of recently completed work?
To fully understand the level of quality and workmenship you can expect from your builder, you should always ask to see and review a range of recently completed projects. Take a look at some of the finer finishings, especially if you are on the hunt for a luxury home builder. Where possible, ask to review references. This way you can get feedback about customer experience and satisfaction. Great quality new home builders should have no problems providing you with all of these details.
Remember, building a new home is a huge financial and emotional investment. The final result of you seeing responses to these questions should be a feeling of confidence, and assuredness. Don't settle for anything less!
If you have an idea or vision for your new dream home, talk to house builders Chateau and we can set in motion the steps and process to making it happen. Visit our portfolio to see some wonderful examples of our modern homes.