Choosing an Auckland builder can be daunting. You have a lot at stake and an overwhelming range of choices. Whether you are trusting them with an extensive project such as your dream house, or a smaller job like a renovation, granny flat, or deck, you need to make sure your they can deliver a quality job on time and on budget.
Here are our five top tips for choosing an Auckland builder.
Don’t immediately choose the cheapest option
Your budget is probably your top concern when planning a project. However, you shouldn’t necessarily go with the cheapest quote you get.
When it comes to builders, cheaper isn’t always better. Once you have the plans for your project, ask two or three Auckland builders to supply a quote based on your ideas. Double check the quotes are using similar construction materials and include the same elements before you make a decision. One might seem cheaper, but if the company is using inferior products, the result may not be worth the saving.
Look for package extras
As well as looking at the final cost, consider what the builder is offering in their packages, such as paying sub-contractors and sourcing materials. Extras such as these can save you a lot of time and stress.
If this is your first renovation, extension, or new build, then you might also want to ask about project management, where your Auckland builder will co-ordinate all the parties involved to ensure the project runs smoothly and efficiently. You will still be involved in all the major decisions, but you’ll have the back-up of an experienced person guiding you through the process.
Check for qualifications and licences
Building or renovating is a significant investment. The last thing you want is for your finished project to fall short of expectations because of poor workmanship. In the worst case, it may not meet regulations or could be unfit to inhabit.
Before you hire an Auckland builder, ask them for their qualifications and check they have the required licences to ensure their work will be compliant. You should also ask if your builder is a member of any professional groups, such as the Registered Master Builders Association.
Get at least three references
As well as checking qualifications, it pays to ask a builder for references before going ahead with a job. Ask for detailed references and find out if you can view some of their previous work. Most reputable builders will have clients who are happy to show you the work they have done. Ideally, get at least three references.
Trust your intuition
The above points are all important factors to help you select an Auckland builder. Your intuition is also important. If you are working on a large project, you will spend lots of time with your chosen builder. You will be entrusting them to create a house you will spend every day in, so you want to have a great working relationship.
Spend a little time chatting with each builder and see how comfortable you are with them. Do you feel they understand your project and circumstances? Are they good communicators? Do they have good ideas that might improve your project or save you money? Do they evoke a sense of trust? Even if your preferred builder is more expensive, choosing someone you “click” with will be worth it in the long run.
If you’d like to discuss your project with Build Right, book a discovery meeting to chat about your ideas and get to know us better!
Build Right Contactors is a family-operated business serving the Greater Auckland Region
We have more than 15 years of experience completing building projects. We cover a wide area of Central Auckland, East Auckland and South Auckland. No matter what type of residential or commercial building project you have in mind, we have the knowledge and expertise to make it a reality. From new homes, house extensions and renovations to significant upgrades to Daycare Centre and Community Projects, we offer a full range of building services.