10 Important Questions To Ask When Selecting A Builder
Opting for a custom Adelaide home is an excellent option if you want to have more control of the overall look of your house. You'll have a say on all aspects, from layout and design to finishes, in comparison to production homes.
Once you decide to build from the ground up, it's crucial to choose the right Adelaide custom home builder to turn your vision into reality. Likewise, you want to make sure that you're not only comfortable working with them, but you trust their entire house building process.
But how do you know that you're choosing the best team to create your dream house? Well, asking these vital questions can assist you in finding the right home builder. Although it may take some time, doing thorough research is worth the effort and time in the long run.
How Long Have You Been An Adelaide Custom Home Builder?
When searching for a builder, make sure to select a reputable, licensed, and qualified company or individual. Expert Adelaide custom builders understand everything about house construction, including the following:
- Area landscape
- Property boundaries
- Soil conditions
- Storm drainage
- Sewer
- Property values
- Zoning
- Water locations
- Natural gas availability
- Electrical power
- Provincial building codes
- Neighbourhood planning
- Inspections required
- Best practices
Look for an Adelaide builder that's been in the industry for at least five years or more. A builder's longevity in the business usually means that they are trustworthy and reputable. Additionally, those that have been locally for long periods will have a better understanding in terms of soil and weather factors, trends in local construction, and local bylaws.
Can You Provide Me With Some References?
Ask the builders you're considering to present you with references for their past clients. Doing so can provide you with an insight into how well they stick to their timelines, any problems along the way, and even a set of dos and don'ts.
If a particular Adelaide home builder is unwilling to give you references, you may see this as a red flag that the homeowners are not always satisfied with the outcome of their work.
What Separates You From Other Adelaide Home builders?
Make sure to listen attentively to the reaction and explanation of the builder regarding this question. Do they look comfortable talking about their customer service commitment and achievements? Let them tell you about things that are significant about themselves or their company.
What’s Your Typical Timeline?
You need some patience when building your house from scratch. Keep in mind that there will be delays due to weather and problems acquiring materials. Likewise, dealing with your contractor can have an impact on even the best-laid plans.
Nonetheless, a reliable Adelaide custom home builder can give you a general idea regarding how long it would take them to build your home. They can also provide you with what their general timeframe would look like.
Knowing every aspect of the construction process is vital and the right Adelaide builder will be able to provide you with a reasonably solid date to move in your new home.
Will I Have Access To The Job Site Throughout The Construction Of My Home?
Usually, you can enter the job site when you're with the project manager so that you can check your home's progress. However, make sure to inform your builder beforehand. This is crucial to ensure that everyone on the construction site is safe. Also, your project manager may implement extra precautions before your visit.
Who Will Manage My Project?
Another important information your home builder needs to clarify is who will be supervising the management of the entire construction site. Will the builder directly manage it or will it be someone else? Also, ask your Adelaide home builder to introduce you to the site manager and to provide you with his contact details.
Who Will Be My Main Point Of Contact
There will be plenty of individuals working on-site. Hence, your Adelaide builder should give you the main point of contact with who you can get updates and answer questions you have in mind during the construction process.
Moreover, ask your builder how they provide information regarding the development of the project. This will give you an idea of the things you can expect. Some may relay information through phone, email, and even an online project management tool.
Can I Show My Lawyer The Construction Contract Before I Sign It?
Before signing any contract, show it to your lawyer first so that you can ask for advice about it. Let your lawyer assess if it's thorough enough and covers the worst of the problems.
Also, see if it covers the following:
- Construction timeframe
- Warranties
- Procedures in the change of order
- Disputes
- Insurance
- Financing
- Budgets
- Liabilities of the builder
- Allowances
- Construction specifications
Do You Have Warranties?
Newly built homes usually come with warranties for a certain period. Some warranties cover more areas of your house and more time. An excellent warranty typically covers electrical, plumbing, and other major systems for a period of two years. It also covers siding, paint, and other cosmetic issues for one year.
What Happens If I Decide To Cancel?
Your situation may change during construction. Likewise, your Adelaide custom home builder may fall short. In such cases, ensure that you have a way out.
Usually, you will need to make a downpayment at the start of the project. You may or not be able to refund this after a specific number of days. Your mind will be at ease about starting the construction if your builder can provide you with a cancellation policy that you're comfortable with.