6 Questions To Ask Your Builder Before Renovating

Home renovation projects aren’t as straightforward as they sound. Whether you are looking to expand your living space or renovate the laundry, there are many things to consider.

Simply exploring thousands of tile shops or scouring Pinterest boards isn’t enough because there are a few humdrum tasks that you need to take care of before launching a home renovation project. If going through the building trade process of a home renovation isn’t your cup of tea, you must hire a builder.

Undoubtedly, choosing the right builder is nerve-racking because it can make or break your dream space. If you choose the wrong one, you’ll have to deal with cracking plaster, leaking pipes, financial loss disputes or, in the worst scenario, an unfinished job.

But the best one will ensure quality service and a pleasant experience. So, whether you’re revamping your old ensuite or installing a second floor, we’ve compiled a list of the most crucial direct questions you must ask your builder before hiring them.

Let’s get started, then!

6 Questions To Ask Your Builder Before Renovating

1. What Will Be The Time Frame Of The Project?

Before anything else, you must ask how long the builder will take to finish your renovation. This means you’ll have to ask them about their schedule or, more precisely, the start and the end date.

When you have a schedule at hand containing the details of the timing and acquisition of building materials, you’ll get a bigger picture of sequences and deadlines for benchtops, tiling, etc. A schedule is necessary, and we don’t suggest going ahead without it. Also, ensure it contains every detail, such as the timings of the workers, days, and so on.

2. How Will You Protect My Property?

Whether you’re redesigning the whole apartment or installing a new kitchen, knowing how your stuff will be protected from damage is essential. After all, no one would like to come back home only to find out that the furniture, paintings, books and other stuff are covered in a blanket of dust.

For those unversed, let us tell you that builders can take plenty of dust-containment measures. So, you should discuss this point with your builder beforehand to avoid issues later.

3. Who Will Be In Charge Of The Site Every Day?

If you’re planning to renovate the entire property, you need to know the person in charge of opening and locking the space daily. Ask your builder about the supervisors who will keep an eye on the subcontractors.

4. What Will Be The Mode Of Communication?

When you hire renovation builders, it’s essential to stay updated about the project, so you must ask them about their preferred mode of communication. Cloud-based schedules, daily emails or maybe just a phone call twice daily are sufficient for receiving information about your property status.

However, if you’re not satisfied with their mode of communication, sit and decide together on the format so that you don’t miss out on essential things. And make sure you plan on a weekly meeting with them to exchange thoughts and ideas.

Ensure you ask for details of the changes needed, the reason why, the new completion date, the fixed price and cost and the new contract’s actual cost. The previous clients and contractor should sign it. For more contractual information, seek legal advice. It may be helpful to contact the consumer protection body in your state/territory, the Master Builders Association, the Housing Industry Association or the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.

5. When Should We Plan For An On-Site Meeting?

Even if you ensure they have public liability insurance coverage, communicate over calls regularly, and meet weekly, it’s essential to have on-site meetings for several reasons.

For instance, it is crucial before the tiler works on the layout. However, you can skip the meeting if you’ve hired an architect or interior designer to design the space. Make sure that they attend those sessions in your absence to avoid mistakes.

6. What Documentations Will I Receive Upon The Completion Of The Project?

Besides copies of inspection reports from previous jobs and marked-up plans, your builder shall hand over plenty of documents, including any development application permissions, grants or government documents. If new equipment has been installed, you’ll likely receive its operating manuals to understand the basics.

You’ll also get instruction manuals for the benchtop and tiles management, a list of subcontractors, and their contact information. Lastly, you are entitled to a well-marked metre box, so don’t forget to take one from your good builder.

Before the builder starts with your venture, confirm that you will receive all this upon completion so there isn’t any confusion later.

Choosing Your Builder

Now that your design is ready and you have the finances, hiring a builder is time to turn those dreams into reality. However, before commencing your building project, discuss your budget and establish a solid building contract so they stay within the set limit of agreed fixed price contracts and don’t overspend.

On that note, it’s finally time to wrap up today’s guide. We hope we have helped you decide the questions you must ask a builder before hiring them.

We would be delighted to speak to you if you seek a Sydney builder specialising in premium renovations. Our experienced and licenced builders can help you create your dream home. Please speak to us today for more information.

But before wrapping up, here’s a last piece of advice - make sure you hire only a licenced and fully insured builder to be on the safe side. Take care, and happy remodelling!