What should you look for when choosing a builder?

Choosing the right builder can be the difference between an exciting and fulfilling renovation process and a property disaster that leaves you disheartened and frustrated. Selecting a builder can be difficult. Unless you or someone you know has worked with them before you may be feeling a little unsure or hesitant about who to pick.

Three important things to look for when choosing your builder:

01

It is important to ask the builder to give you a detailed, itemised quote. You need to know that they have allowed for every item in your plans and don’t have too many provisional sums. This will ensure that you know exactly how much the project is going to cost and will help to avoid frustrating variations during the renovation.

02

You need to be comfortable with the builders’ workmanship before hiring them. Photos and videos are great, but are not enough. Don’t be shy to ask to visit current and completed projects so you can see the quality of work for yourself. It is also a good idea to request the phone numbers of previous clients to hear about their experiences. Remember, you are investing a lot of money into the builder you select. If they are hesitant about any of the above requests, this could be a red flag.

03

A renovation is often a long and intimate process. Choosing a builder that you think fits your personality and understands your needs and expectations can make this process much easier.

“If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far go together” – African Proverb