Are you worried about being left in the dark during your renovation?
Are you unable to effectively communicate what you want out of your building project?
Constructing a new home or beginning a renovation project is an exciting adventure. However, the key to a successful construction project lies in finding the right builder who understands your vision and is committed to delivering the results you desire.
With numerous construction horror stories circulating, it’s essential to ask questions that will reveal the true nature of the builder you are looking to form a partnership with.
We have come up with some questions you should ask your builder and some red flag responses you need to look out for, to avoid disaster.
1. What Kind Of Work Do You Specialise In?
Every builder has their area of expertise. It is crucial to choose a builder who specialises in the specific type of work your project will require.
For example, if you’re looking to build a sustainable eco-home, partnering with a builder experienced in energy efficient homes would be ideal.
By asking about their specialisation, you can gain insight into their skills and determine if they are the right fit for your home.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “I’m a general builder, I can build anything you want me to”
2. May I Speak With Your Past Clients?
One of the best ways to gauge a builder’s performance is by speaking with their past clients. Request to meet with multiple clients to discuss their experiences.
Ask about the builder’s professionalism, communication skills, adherence to timelines, and how they dealt with issues that inevitably come up during the construction process.
Conversations with previous clients provide valuable firsthand information and give you a better perspective on how your project will proceed if you do decide to work with them.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “I don’t have any clients who would be willing to speak with you”
3. How Many Projects Do You Handle Simultaneously?
Understanding a builder’s workload is crucial to ensure they are able to commit sufficient time and resources to your project. Enquire about the number of projects they have on at any one point in time and how they schedule their capacity for the future to ensure they are not over committed.
If you’re like anyone who wants their project to be built on time, you want to ensure that your builder can manage their capacity for the future and at any one point in time, So that your project manager has the time for you and your project and you don’t end up as another nightmare story.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “We can start whenever you are ready”
4. Will I Be Assigned A Project Manager And How Many Jobs Do They Manage At One Time?
A competent builder will have an organised system in place to manage projects efficiently and a dedicated project manager for each of their jobs. Ask about the number of project managers they employ and how many jobs he has on at a time.
Clarify how the project manager will communicate with you and how you can reach out to them. Establishing clear lines of communication will help streamline the construction process and address any concerns promptly.
It’s also good to ask about boundaries, like, can I call whenever I want? and can we do site meetings outside of hours?
A professional builder will have an online portal for you to see all your crucial info and a set process for communication including calls, site meetings and emails.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “We don’t have one individual Project Manager, so if you ever need anything just call the office and one of us will be able to help you”
5. How Do You Handle Unexpected Challenges During The Project?
Construction projects rarely go without a hitch. It’s crucial to understand how your builder handles unforeseen challenges.
The first thing you want to establish though, is that your builder acknowledges that issues can arise. No builder is perfect and a renovation project is always going to have its share of challenges.
Enquire about their approach to problem-solving and how they communicate with clients when issues arise. Will they promptly inform you and propose solutions, or will you be responsible for identifying problems and reaching out to them?
Clear expectations regarding problem solving will ensure a smoother journey.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “We don’t have a specific process for this, but we just take them as they come”
6. Are You Licensed And Insured And Can I See Your Certificate Of Currency?
Never overlook the importance of asking about a builder’s licence and insurance. Confirm that your prospective builder holds the necessary licences and permits required by local authorities. You would be surprised that some builders are not licensed correctly or are underinsured.
Some builders trade as a company and although the builder individually has a license, the company does not and this can be a real problem.
Some insurance is compulsory but some is not. It’s always good to ask the question and see the builders certificate of currency for Home Owners Warranty and Contract works insurance.
Red flag responses from your builder:
- “Yeah, I’ll show you all our insurances and licensing information after we sign a contract ”
Embarking on a construction project can be an overwhelming experience, but by asking these six crucial questions to your builder, you’ll gain an insight into the type of person your really going to be dealing with and potentially avoid a disaster
Remember—finding the right builder is vital to a successful and enjoyable project. Finding the right builder is just one of the 6 Essential Things You Must Do For A Successful Home Renovation, download our FREE guide to find out the other five.
