Tips For Choosing A Building Contractor
Once you’ve decided on the project you want to build or renovate you want to make sure of a few things right from the start.
Just because you know what you want and you think you’re explaining it clearly it doesn’t mean the other person has the same understanding of the project.
So it’s best to have as many images, photos, diagrams as possible to make sure without a doubt everyone is on the same page and heading in the same direction.
The second thing you want to make sure of right from the start is that you can actually afford to finance the new home build, the renovation or the project you want to undertake.
Prices vary and things change pretty quickly in the building industry. Freight costs go up with the rise in fuel costs, labour costs go up with shortage of workers, materials go up in price when stocks are running low.
So make sure you budget for the unforeseen circumstances.
The next thing you want to make sure of when choosing your building contractor is to make sure you read their reviews and testimonials.
You’ll find them on Facebook and Google Plus – not just on their website.
And the last thing to check out is their portfolio of works or gallery of images that showcase their work.
Take a look at their finished projects and get a feel for the work they create. Do you like them, do they have a certain quality that appeals to you?
Once you’ve done the leg with your plans, ideas, finance in order and researched the best builder for you (Lindsay Bates Building of course!) there a few more things to tick off your list.
Here are 8 tips for working with a Building Contractor
- 1. Plan each project carefully. Gather all the pictures you have saved up. Write a description on each project.
- 2. Make a list of contractors. Ask your friends and neighbours for any references. Ask the salesperson at the home improvement store for a recommendation.
- 3. Compile at least three quotes on your project. Select the quote from the contractor that matches your values. Don’t base it just on price. You want to make sure you’re comparing apples with apples so ask questions to make sure you know exactly what you’re getting for the price quoted. Cheap is not always best and cheap is not always cheap when a detailed comparison is made.
- Verify with your local contractors board the credentials of the contractor you have selected. Verify the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. A registered builder will have a QBCC licence number. Lindsay Bates Building QBCC licence number: 1175767
- 5. Get a signed contract from the contractor stating all the details, costs, removal of the work debris, and payment schedules. The contract should also include all warranties and guarantees for the work performed.
- 6. Make needed changes to the project in writing to avoid all misunderstandings and mistakes.
- 7. Inspect the different phases of the project. Keep track of the time schedule and make sure the contractor is staying on schedule.
- 8. Pay directly and promptly according to the contract.
Make sure you have the options of open communications with the contractor. You need to be able to talk to the contractor about the different projects at various times so you need to be comfortable talking to the contractor.
You also need to be able to talk to the contractor about possible changes of the different projects without feeling they will become upset or irate. The contractor needs to be the type of person you can easily approach throughout the time of the projects.
Lindsay Bates Building offers communication via email, via our website and also by phone.
Building a new home or carrying out a renovation is an exciting time. It can be stressful if not handled by expert builders.
All you need to do is ask questions, keep communication open and you will find yourself with a beautiful, finished project that you feel proud of.
Call Lindsay Bates Building for a quote or if you have any questions on a project you’re thinking of for the future. We are always happy to help.
