Choosing a home builder is one of those decisions where the cost of getting it wrong is enormous, and yet I still see good people pick a builder the way they'd pick a takeaway — quickest reply and lowest price. Don't do that. A house is too much money to roll the dice on
Here's the short list of questions I reckon every client should ask any builder they're considering. Don't be shy. You're spending a lot of your money and you're entitled to clear answers.
How long have you been in business, and can I see your licence and current insurances? Who will be the project manager on my job, and can I meet them? Where can I see examples of your work, including older homes, not just last month's photos? Will your quotation cover inclusions and exclusions in writing? What happens if I'm unhappy with something during the build, and have you handled that situation before? Please walk me through your progress payment stages. Do you use a standard HIA or MBA contract, and can I see a draft? What warranties are included after handover?
If a builder won't answer any of those, cross them off. A best-practice operator will happily answer every one because they know the answers reflect well on them.
Beyond the questions, do a bit of leg work. A licensed builder is a non-negotiable starting point — there are state registers you can check. Drive past a couple of their current sites if you can. Is the site tidy, fenced, signed properly, with materials neatly stored? An untidy site is a tired site, and a tired site usually means a tired job. Industry association memberships matter too — HIA or MBA membership tells you the builder is keeping up with current legislation and trade practices.
Finally, listen to your gut on whether you can communicate with this person, because you'll be working together for months.
If you'd like to put me through the same questions, I'd welcome it. Find me at inh.com.au/Inverell.
