Building & Renovation

While every builder will have different areas of expertise, there are certain things every builder will have in common, and key information all construction professionals should be able to provide - whether it’s for a renovation, a new build or a larger, more complex project. 

Deciding to build a house or begin the process of a renovation can often represent one of the largest financial commitments of a person’s life. With this in mind, it’s important to engage a builder who is an expert in the style of building your project represents, and a person or company that is compatible with the rest of the design and project team.

For building and renovation work, a quote depends on whether the brief is a new build, an extension or work within an existing home or commercial property, as well as the materials and specialist services required. Renovations may also involve environmental considerations that affect the scope. To compare estimates, check they use the same plans and describe the same work, including project management, specialist trades and materials; note exclusions and identify allowances for items not yet specified.

• Can I see a portfolio of your work?

• Are there past clients I can speak with?

• What are your areas of speciality?

• What is your record with handing over projects on time and on budget?

• What licences and/or qualifications in Australia do you and your team have?

• Do you see any challenges in my project, and how would you deal with these?

There are a range of options for managing a residential building or renovation project in Australia, ranging from client-led to hiring an external project manager or engaging an architect or builder to manage the project. 

In architecturally-designed projects, it is common for the architect to stay on after the designs are consented and manage the build. This is often the preference of the architect, especially if the project represents a complex design and resulting build.

A building contractor will also commonly manage residential projects, taking over from the designer or architect once plans are consented. 

Renovation experts specialise in Australia in improving existing areas of homes and buildings or extending an existing structure. They bring expertise around environmental considerations, choice of materials, keeping within budget and holding reasonable programme expectations. These considerations also apply to an office building renovation, where existing spaces may be improved or extended.

Professional renovators have strong networks so can engage proven specialists if required for work needing specific expertise – so they are generally a much better option than risking a DIY approach to your renovations.  

Other specialists that may be required for a building project include:

• Glaziers

• Electricians

• Plumbers and drainlayers

• Pool builders

• Landscapers

• Paving specialists 

• Stone, concrete and paving professionals for masonry work

• Scaffolders

• Painters and plasterers

• Consultants, including geotechnical, civil contractors and structural engineers

• Commercial projects may require roading or earthworks professionals, and a range of engineering consultants