Are you thinking about hiring a builder? Whether you are hiring a builder in Brisbane or in another location in Queensland, there are few things you need to know.
Here is a mini-guide to hiring a builder in Brisbane.
Experience Matters
One of the most important factors to consider is the builder’s experience. Sometimes, it is hard to find out if a builder is experienced.
The best thing you can do is to find out where he has worked before. That is pretty easy to do when he is a local builder.
Ask him about other jobs he has done in the area and find out if you can visit them. Doing so will quickly give you an idea what workmanship is like.
Hiring a Local Builder
Should you hire a local builder or a building company from out of town?
The smart money is on hiring a local building service. Your builder is more likely to turn up on time and do a good job.
Most local builders rely on recommendations and word of mouth when it comes to picking up jobs.
A local building company often does a better job than an out of town one. After all, they are dependent on business from the local area. Do a bad job, and they may not get hired again.
Checking Licences
You don’t need to get licences for all building jobs. However, for most you will need some sort of licence.
Working together with a local professional builder means that the company has local contacts in the planning department or other local government office.
When you want to get started quickly, it is good to work with someone who knows how to get going and cut through any red tape.
Insurance
Is your builder insured? You need to check that the builder or construction company you are thinking about signing a contract with is insured.
Should they damage your property, they must be able to fix it and pay for it out of their own pocket. It should not be up to you.
Health and safety is an important element of any construction work. It does not matter if you are having your kitchen replaced or a new roof installed.
In case there is an accident while the builder is in your home, he should be covered for it. Don’t just take their word for it. Ask to see paperwork.
Agree a Contract
Don’t forget that you need to agree to a contract. This is essential when it comes to the use of materials and completion date.
A signed contract means your builder can’t swap out materials or change the construction without you agreeing to it. Many homeowners forget that materials are an essential part of the contract.
Materials include everything from insulation to the door handles for any internal work in the home. Make sure that everything is set out in the contract or agreement.
The finishing date should also be stated in the contract. If the builder can’t finish on time, he should let you know.
When it is a time critical project and the builder does not finish on time, he may have to pay penalties.
Before you agree to the final contract, take it to a legal representative and get it checked out.
Clean It Up
Before the builder leaves the project, he should clean up after himself. This is something many homeowners forget about, but it is essential.
It is tempting to say that you’ll clear it up. Any construction project needs to be considered incomplete until any mess is cleared
Why should your builder leave any rubbish and other materials left all over your yard? Make sure the contract contains a clause about clearing up after the work is done.
Final Thoughts
All of this sounds rather harsh, right?
When you employ a builder or construction company, it is important not to lose sight of the fact that this is a commercial relationship.
You may like the bloke or team, but at the end of the day, this is a building project. It needs to meet certain standards. Remember that it is your money.
