Residential Construction:

Commonly Asked Questions

When will my renovation/building project begin?

Once all the details have been ironed out, any required consents approved and deposit paid, we can then book in a start date. As we will be completing other builds in the mean time, please be aware that there may be delays with other clients projects which may affect your start time. We will keep you up to date with any and all changes.

Will my project be on time and on budget?

We honour our word. Where we have stated a fixed price, it will be exactly that. The areas however where there may be changes are in regards to increase in materials supply and clients changes in design. There is the occasional scenario where unforeseen details emerge during the construction phase that may need further investigation, design or engineering. (especially in renovation /alteration scenarios.)

The construction industry is fraught with delays, with that being said we make every effort to keep to our build schedule.

Some areas that can affect the build time are weather, shortages in materials, changes to or errors in design and unforeseen circumstances discovered during the build process.

Why does it look like there has been no progress on my renovation?

The construction process goes through many ebbs and flows. At times it will look like a vast amount of work has been done quickly, eg framing, followed by stages of detailing and preparation for subsequent construction stages.

The minor stages are just as (and in some cases, more) important than the major.

Can we make changes to the plans during construction?

You absolutely can and we encourage you to keep assessing how the space is developing and how well it fits your needs, the long term value of these changes often outweigh the initial added cost.

In some cases we will offer suggestions where we believe an area can be improved upon to better suit your lifestyle.

Why is there such a big difference in my renovation/build quotes?

Comparing quotes can be a bit like comparing apples and oranges. Builders often have different approaches to tasks, differing levels of experience and different levels of trade pricing from their suppliers.

We encourage catching up for another meeting after you have compiled all your quotes so we can compare them with you and ensure you are getting the best value and are not being taken for a ride.

Who will be working on my site?

We have experienced builders and apprentices working towards their BCITO qualification whom we will introduce you to.

Each job is typically a two man team (builder + apprentice) but there are occasions where we will send more labour to meet demand as required.

Will there be a mess on site?

Before the Construction stage begins, there will often be a Destruction phase. This may cause dust, noise, dirt and all sorts of building materials that pile up. However, once the site is established we keep a tidy site policy.

Will my home be exactly as I'd imagined?

In my experience, there is always something that you would have done differently given the chance to time travel. This is why we place such an emphasis on the pre job planning stage so that these, ā€œI wish Iā€ moments are mitigated.

How long does it take to prepare a quote / estimate?

Depending on the size of the job, typically 2-6 weeks. During this time we are acquiring pricing from suppliers and quotes from subcontractors to compile into our final quote / estimate.

What if a mistake is made?

Like every human being, builders are not perfect and we do make mistakes. We have a realistic approach to our projects and accept that if a mistake is made, it is ours to own and make right.

How can I as the client assist the build process?

There is an often overwhelming amount of decisions to be made in terms of design and finish but the more decisions that have been nailed down, the better.

Some clients love to be involved in every detail and some do not, so there is the option to have us make decisions based on our skill and experience on your behalf.

What about landscaping?

Landscaping is typically not included but certainly can be at your request.

What is a PC (Prime Cost) sum?

This is an estimated sum allocated to a particular area where a solid decision has not yet been made - for example kitchen cabinetry.

How long is the consent process?

Typically 20 business days from submission and acceptance.