Having the right team on board for your renovation is critically important to the overall success of the build. Not only will your builder be responsible for the quality of the finished project, the level of customer service they deliver will directly determine your enjoyment of the process, which we think is equally as important. Look for these key qualities when selecting a builder for your home renovation:
Local Knowledge
Selecting a quality, local builder, has many benefits. It is likely that his team of sub-trades and suppliers are all local too which means you won’t incur travel time and large freight charges which can make a significant difference to the overall build budget. Your builder will also have a good understanding of local council requirements which can mean big things when it comes to keeping your project on track.
Focus on Partnership
A successful renovation requires a collaborative process. It is critical to choose a builder who aims to foster a trusted relationship with you and will keep you involved and informed throughout the project. Clear lines of communications will ensure that you have an enjoyable experience and your vision for the build is met.
A Stellar Reputation
It’s important to choose a builder with a great local reputation. Find out how long they have been operating for, ask for evidence of past work and read through testimonials. A reputable builder will also have no issue with you speaking to past clients and will be able to provide you verifiable references.
A Great Set of Credentials
To achieve your goal of a quality renovation, you will want to look for a builder who is highly experienced in this area of construction. Ensure they are a Licenced Building Practitioner and even better, they are a Registered Master Builder. They should also use a team of trusted, licenced and qualified sub-contractors.
Comprehensive Insurance
Every builder should have comprehensive public liability insurance and be able to supply you with a copy of their certificate. They will also likely let you know that you will need to take out additional ‘contract works’ insurance with your current insurer and they will provide you details around this.
A Transparent Approach
The quote provided by your builder should be comprehensive and show a breakdown of the project costs, inclusions and exclusions. Quotes that lack detail can mean you are in for costly surprises along the way. The building contract should also be clear and include all the work that has been agreed to be completed. Ensure your builder has a clear process for communicating and seeking approval for variations to avoid unexpected bills at the end of the build.