Choosing the right builder

Where to source a builder

The best way to find a suitable builder for your home build is via the following methods:

Recommendations from friends and family
Recommendations from your wider network
Site advertising — see their work first-hand
Product suppliers — Hardware, paint store, plumbing supplier, tiling shop
Google — Source builders near you and check their reviews

How to choose the right builder

Not every builder is going to be suitable for your project. Run through this checklist to find a reputable builder that is going to meet your project needs.

Do they specialise in the work you need? Some builders are general builders and will work on all projects. Other builders will specialise in certain builds (renovation or custom homes for example). At a minimum, you want a builder who has experience in the area you are after.
Can you review a portfolio of their work?
Is there a consistent style the builder produces?
Is this the style you are looking for?
How did you find the builder and how much do you trust the recommendation source?
How long has the builder been in business?
Is the builder adequately licenced to carry out your work? (You can check this through the licensing authority in your state)
Does the builder have restrictions on their licence?
Has the builder had disciplinary action recorded against their licence?
Has the builder ever declared bankruptcy?
Does the builder have reviews and/or testimonials? (direct testimonials or reviews on Google and Social Media)
Can you get feedback from past clients? Ask the builder if they are able to share contact details of past clients so you can hear directly about their experience.
What is their availability? Are they available within the time frame you were looking at or are they booked out for months/years?
How many projects has the builder undertaken? And more importantly, how many projects similar to your project have they successfully completed?
How many projects does the builder have going at any given time?
How are the projects managed while under construction?
Who are the key people managing the build?
Who will be your direct point of contact?
When and how will you be updated with details of the project?
What tools/software if any is used to both manage the project and keep the client updated?
Can the builder provide a copy of insurance? If you are taking out finance for your project, the bank will require a copy of the builder’s insurance policy prior to approving your finance.
What is the builder’s communication style? How have they communicated from the very first point of contact? If you find communication difficult from the start, this may be a sign that it won’t be a good working relationship.
Has the builder been transparent and straightforward with answering your questions?
Do you feel like the builder listens to you?
Are they able to communicate clearly without confusing jargon?
MOST IMPORTANT — Does the builder do what they say they are going to do when they say they are going to do it? Did they call you when they said they were going to call? Did they get back to you with testimonial details?