Choosing the right builder for your home extension can either make or break your project. The right builder will ensure your extension is completed on time, within your budget and is done to the best standard. However, the wrong one will leave you stress, delays and costly mistakes.
But with so many home builders out there, how can you choose the right builder? This article will provide a guide to help you choose the best builder for your home extension.
Choosing the best home builder
Define your goals
Before searching for a builder, you must have made up your mind about what you want. Do you want an extra bedroom, a second storey, or an open-plan living area? Do you have a specific budget and timeline in mind? Knowing these details will help you find an experienced builder for the type of extension you need.
Look for experience
Not all builders are the same. Some focus on new home projects while others specialize in renovations and extensions. Since the extension is a blend of old and new structures, it’s best to hire someone with specific experience in building extensions Melbourne. You can ask questions like:
- How many home extensions have you completed?
- Do you have experience with projects similar to mine?
- Can you show me examples of your work?
Asking these kinds of questions helps you determine their level of expertise and also gives you peace of mind.
Read reviews and get recommendations
A builder’s reputation says a lot about their work and work ethic. You can check online reviews on Google and Facebook. Or you can ask friends, family or neighbours if they’ve worked with a great builder. If a builder has too many negative reviews or a bad work ethic, that’s a red flag.
You can ask for references and call past clients to ask about their experience. Did the builder stick to the budget? Were there any unexpected issues? Was the quality up to standard?
Get multiple quotes and compare
Never settle for the first quote you get. Go ahead and get at least three quotes from different builders and compare them carefully. Don’t just focus on the price, but check what’s listed in the quote too. If the quote is too cheap, there’s a high chance that important costs were left out and this can lead to costly expenses later.
Understand the contract before signing
A good builder will provide a detailed contract outlining:
- The total cost and payment schedule
- The project timeline and deadlines
- What is (and isn’t) included in the price
Never sign a contract you don’t understand. If you’re confused in any way, hire a lawyer or building consultant to help you review the contract before you sign.
Conclusion
Choosing the right builder for your home extension takes time, but it’s all worth it in the end. You’ll find a reliable home builder if you do your due diligence in searching for the right one. Remember that only an experienced and specialized builder can bring your vision to life without stress, delays or costly mistakes.
