The vast majority of things that go wrong on any building contract occur because of the choices that you make when appointing your builder.
Here are 5 simple must-dos to help you hire the right builder for your project.
Tip #1 – Reviews & References
All Kandua Pros have reviews, ratings and photos of previous projects on their profiles – make sure you take a look when deciding who to hire. You will only find building Pros on Kandua with a minimum rating of 4 stars and up.
Tip #2 – Timing
Ask how soon the work can begin. You may have a disaster on your hands but your chosen Pro can only start the project in a couple of weeks’ time. Also understand how long the project is estimated to take, so you do not have unreasonable expectations.
Tip #3 – Subcontractors
Check the registration details of the electrical sub-contractor and the plumbing sub-contractor that your builder will be using with their respective associations. This is very important as you will need a valid Certificate of Compliance on completion.
Tip #4 – Understand The Quote
Be aware that there are always unknowns in the construction process that could incur additional costs. This is normal. Expect it. Allow about 5 – 8% of your total budget for these extras. With good planning, design and management, the costs can be minimised.
Tip #5 – Communication Is Key
Effective communication is essential for any building project, and by taking the time to ensure that all parties are clear about their responsibilities and expectations, you can help to ensure a successful outcome.
Conclusion
Lastly, trust your gut – if something feels off, it probably is. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth building process and a final product that you love.
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Suzette Meyer is the lead author and content creator for Kandua.com, South Africa’s #1 marketplace for home services. She researches and writes the Kandua Advice articles, Cost Guides, and the Kandua Email Newsletter, drawing on the expertise of Kandua’s base of over 40 000 pros across more than 100 services, and the data gathered from the 100 000+ home service projects facilitated through the platform.
Home improvement can be daunting, and it is often difficult to find out if you are paying a fair price for your products and services. Suzette has made it her mission to help homeowners with advice on all aspects of home repair, maintenance and improvement, including how to choose the right handyman and how to make smart upgrades that improve your resale value or save costs.
