Things You Need to Know Before Working with a Builder

Working collaboratively with a builder is essential to kicking your next project off with a bang! However, knowing how to best work with a builder — or even finding the right one — can be difficult. Over our years in the industry, on both sides of the client-builder relationship, we've uncovered a few frequently asked questions you should know the answers to before signing off on your next project.

How do I know when I need to engage a builder?

Regardless of the scale of the project, we recommend engaging a builder at the beginning of the process. Having them along for the journey from day one can help ease some of your stress and give them a more holistic overview of the project. This works particularly well when paired with your design professionals, because as a team they can be on the same page and set realistic budgets, timelines and outcomes from the outset.

The traditional way of building involves designing a home with the designer or architect, then tendering it out for builders to quote. This is fraught with danger and often leads to disappointment as the design (which the client is now emotionally invested in) is often significantly more expensive to build than expected, and design sacrifices need to be made. This situation can be entirely avoided when the design and build team work collaboratively from day one.

How do I find the right builder for my project?

The first step is deciding on your non-negotiables — timelines, budget, communication, materials and quality of finishes. Having these clearly defined will help you find a builder that's right for you. It's also imperative to find a builder that aligns with your personal ethos and priorities.

Take the time to meet and discuss your project with a variety of builders, view their portfolios, and read testimonials from previous clients. Gut feeling is everything! Trust it. You'll be spending a large amount of time with your build and design team, so don't overlook the importance of actually getting along with them.

Will my builder also design my home?

If you're working with a designer or architect, your builder most likely won't be heavily involved in the design side — their role is execution of the craftsmanship. Unless you've engaged a design and building company like Yarrow Build, it's unlikely that your builder will design your home.

Red flags to look out for:

1. Vague Contracts: Your building contract should clearly outline the project's scope, budget, timelines and agreed-upon practices. Your contract protects you and the builder if something goes wrong.

2. Bundled Budgets: If your builder provides a quote with prices bundled into packages or unclear line items, it could be because they're hiding fees. A kitchen renovation should provide a scope breakdown of each trade (joinery, electrical, plumbing, painting, flooring) rather than a lump sum.

3. No Fixed Timeline: It's up to your builder to project manage and provide you with a timeline from the outset and stick to it. If there is a change in the timeline, they should notify you instantly.

Above all else, the most important thing to look for in a builder is someone you can trust and communicate with clearly.