Here are my top tips 11 to 15 – Getting your project delivered
11. Your designer or project manager should be able to recommend good builders or help you in a search, they may have worked with tradespeople in your area before.
Some professional associations for builders, plumbers and electricians have searchable databases on their web sites. Some have now undergone ‘green’ training and accreditation to expand their skills.
Also ask friends who have renovated recently. When you have looked through the magazines, check to see who built your favourite homes- they may be a local builder.
12. Create a shortlist of builders or trades people you will ask for qoutes-it’s always wise to get several qoutes.
If you have engaged a designer, they will prepare tender documents for your builder. This will include the drawings as well as the specification which spells out the standards builders must comply with and any specifics relating to building products you want them to use.
Be clear about what you want builders to include in their price and what is excluded.
Also ask about the start date and how long the work will take, as this can have budget implications as well.
13. Once you have assessed quotes, you may want to ask your preferred builder if you can see some of their past work or talk to past clients, if you have not already done so.
There are many types of contracts you can use when engaging a builder. Among other things, the contract will set out payment details. Payment is usually made in increments (called stage payments) when the builder finishes agreed stages of the works as signed off by the project manager.
The drawings and specification form part of the contract documents so it is important to get them right! If you want something, such as new skirting boards, but forget to include them in the drawings or specification, they will be charged as an extra.
14. Your budget will take on the dual role of a financial management document during the building phase. Even if you do not have an ‘actual’ price for some of the elements make sure that you have a number put aside for it so there are no nasty surprises down the road.
Ensure that no one can change specification or dates without your approval (or your project manager), only one person should be nominated to approve changes.
Make sure that your builder runs a secure clean site and is respectful to your neighbours property and lifestyle. Don’t forget, you have to live there once the contractor has long gone!
