10 things to consider when choosing a builder

You might be embarking on a renovation project or building your dream home and are in the early stages of looking for a builder. But if you are not in the building industry or have never renovated or built before, finding the right builder could prove challenging.

1. Ask for recommendations

Ask your friends and family if they have worked with a reputable builder and had a favourable experience. Look for recommendations in community groups, such as your local Facebook groups. Or ask your local hardware or tradespeople, such as an electrician or plumber, if they know of or have worked with a builder they would recommend.

2. Check for their areas of specialty 

It is best to work with a builder that specialises in your type and style of renovation or build as they have experience in those projects. For example, if you have an old Queenslander, you want to raise and build or renovate, choose a builder with a track record in doing those renovations, as they will know what to expect and are likely to be more efficient with the process.  

3. Ensure your values align 

When speaking to the potential builder about your project, ensure your values align regarding the product quality and the build process. For example, you may only want high-end finishes and a quality build rather than cheaper options to get the project over the line. And make sure you agree with their build process. For example, we emphasise our process, particularly in the preliminary stages, to ensure everything is well documented and all the information, such as surveys and council searches, is there for when we start the design. This prevents further delays in the project timeline and allows for smoother building approval and starting the build. Renovating or building is generally one of the biggest projects and financial investments you will undertake, so it is vital to trust your builder and ensure they are honest and upfront with you and have the confidence to deliver the project.

4. Find out about their tradespeople    

Another thing to consider is whether the builder uses their tradespeople and contractors or you can supply your trade contacts to work on the project. Homes with simplistic designs and not too intricate builds can be efficiently built by contract crews of carpenters with experience in that type of work. Understand how often the builder works with those crews and if they are reliable. On the other hand, if your project is a high-end new build, architecturally designed, or even a renovation, the builder should have full-time carpenters on the team to maintain the quality. We prefer to work with the same tradespeople on an ongoing basis. It makes the process a lot easier, especially with the volatility of the market and quality trades in high demand.

5. Determine their project capacity  

Know how many projects the builder you choose has on the go and their capacity to understand if this will affect your project timeline and completion. Depending on their business and team size, they might have only one or multiple projects on the go. You might also prefer to work with a boutique builder who has a more customised approach to their service delivery, is on the tools and likes to manage the process onsite, rather than a bigger company that might have a more structured business with a shopfront and office administration team.

6. Understand how they will manage administration

Check if the builder has someone responsible for the contract administration and supporting the build process so admin tasks and requests are promptly handled. For example, you may have a site meeting with the builder if you want to make a variation. In that case, the builder or the contracts administrator should issue the variation quickly after the request is made to ensure it is signed off before the work begins. Otherwise, it could be a costly and unforeseen outcome in the long run.

7. Confirm what contract they use

Before you review pricing and scope with the builder, ask them what contract they use to ensure you agree with their terms and conditions. Seek legal advice if you cannot understand some of the contract terms before signing to avoid potential issues in the future. We use the contracts from Master Builders, which are very easy to read and understand, even if you are not in the building industry. 

8. Check out their current and past projects

In many cases, it might be hard to view the builder’s completed projects, especially if the new homeowners have already moved in. So ask to see photos and videos of their current and past projects. Most builders will have a portfolio of their projects on their website, or they can send you more information that you can utilise for your research. You could also ask if you could arrange a visit or a meeting at an active construction site to see how the builder operates, including their team and subcontractors. Check out the testimonials on their website and reviews on their google and social media profiles to see what other people say about their experience with them.

9. Find out if they have project management software

Many builders have project management software that clients can log into to see the schedules, progress, updates, progress photos, contracts, variations and everything else relating to the project. For example, if you have variations in place, you can log on and track where the price of the build is sitting. And you can check what you’ve paid and what bills are outstanding. This will help you keep up with the project, so you don't constantly have to follow up or miss important details and communication.

10. Interview the top three builders

Following the above steps should assist you in shortlisting builders for your project. Once you have settled on the top three, we highly recommend meeting them in person and interviewing them. From there, you should be able to choose someone with whom you will have a good working relationship and be able to produce an amazing outcome together.

Bluebird Design + Build are Brisbane’s luxury custom home design and build specialists who work with you every step to design and build a home that looks excellent, matches your budget and meets your family's needs. Find out more about our team here or book a discovery call to see how we can help.