At Warlows Legal, we specialise in construction law and understand how crucial it is to find a reliable builder. With countless stories of homeowners frustrated by delays, cost overruns, or general unreliability, building a home can quickly turn from a dream into a legal nightmare.
To help you avoid these pitfalls, we’ve compiled essential tips for selecting the right builder for your project. Read on to learn what to look for when hiring a construction team.
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Check Licensing and Registration
A legitimate builder must be registered or licensed. In Victoria, for instance, any domestic building work over $10,000 requires a registered builder. If you’re hiring a company, ensure it holds the proper registration as a building practitioner. Builders (except companies) are issued a Photo ID card specifying the work they are authorised to undertake. You can verify a builder’s credentials using the Victorian Building Authority Find a Practitioner directory.
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Assess Experience and Specialisation
Not all builders are suited for every type of project. Some excel at renovations, while others specialise in large-scale custom homes. Look at their previous work and confirm that their expertise aligns with your project. If needed, ask to see completed projects and, where possible, speak with previous clients about their experience.
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Verify Reputation and Reliability
A reliable builder should have a solid reputation, and the best way to gauge this is through word of mouth. Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations, particularly if they’ve recently built or renovated a home. Additionally, review online testimonials and independent review platforms to get a broader sense of customer satisfaction.
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Speak with Past Clients
If a builder is confident in their work, they should have no issue connecting you with previous clients. When speaking to past customers, consider asking:
- Did the builder communicate effectively and professionally?
- Were timelines and budgets adhered to?
- How did they handle unforeseen challenges?
- Was the quality of the final work satisfactory?
- Would they hire the same builder again?
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Understand Pricing and Contracts
While budget is important, choosing the cheapest quote isn’t always wise. A significantly lower price may indicate potential issues with quality or hidden costs. Ensure all costs are outlined in a contract, and confirm whether price variations will be put in writing before approval. Beware of builders who request large upfront payments or payments before work has been completed.
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Review Insurance and Compliance
A professional builder should have valid public liability insurance and, for projects over $16,000, eligibility for domestic building insurance. You can check a builder’s insurance status via the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA) Builder Search. Additionally, confirm that subcontractors hold the necessary qualifications and will provide compliance certificates for their work.
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Conduct Background Checks
To avoid potential disputes, look into the builder’s history for any disciplinary actions or past misconduct. The Victorian Building Authority’s Disciplinary Register provides details on any breaches of building regulations. If a builder has a history of complaints or disputes, consider it a red flag.
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Ensure Good Communication
Your builder should be approachable and responsive. A successful project requires clear communication, so assess how they respond to your inquiries and whether they take the time to explain processes. Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary stress throughout the build.
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Consider Financial Stability
Before committing to a builder, check their financial stability. If a builder has a history of insolvency or financial struggles, there’s a risk they may not be able to complete your project. Request financial references or check publicly available records to verify their standing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right builder requires research, due diligence, and careful consideration. By verifying qualifications, checking references, ensuring clear contracts, and prioritising reliability over cost alone, you can significantly increase the likelihood of a smooth and successful construction experience.
If you need legal assistance at any stage of your building project, our team at Warlows Legal is here to help.
