Short answer
Start by confirming the builder holds a current ACT builder licence, which you can check on Access Canberra's public register. Then establish who will actually manage your build day to day, whether they have built your type of project before, and how clearly they communicate. How many projects a builder runs at once is a good indicator of how much attention yours will get.
Check that the builder is licensed
In the ACT, residential builders must hold a current builder licence. You can check a builder's licence through Access Canberra's public register. Do not engage a builder who is unable to provide their licence details.
Understand who is actually managing your build
Some building companies operate with a large sales team and a separate construction team. You may deal with one person during the quoting and contract stage, and then be handed to a site supervisor or project manager you have never met. Understanding who your actual point of contact will be throughout the build, and how accessible they are, is worth asking about directly.
A smaller builder or owner operator model means you are typically working with the person who holds the licence and who is responsible for the outcome. This tends to result in more direct communication and clearer accountability.
Ask about their experience with your project type
A builder with strong experience in new homes may have a different skill set from one experienced in knockdown rebuilds or dual occupancies. Ask specifically whether they have done projects similar to yours in Canberra, and ask to speak with previous clients where possible.
Assess how they communicate
How a builder communicates during the quoting process is often a reasonable guide to how they will communicate during the build. Do they respond promptly? Do they explain things clearly? Do they raise issues honestly rather than telling you what you want to hear? These are meaningful signals.
Understand what is included in the quote
A low quote is not always a good quote. The key question is what is included and what is not. Ask specifically about provisional sum allowances: these are estimates for items not yet fully specified, and they can be a significant source of cost increase later if they are set unrealistically low.
A clear, detailed contract with well defined inclusions gives you a much better basis for comparison between builders and for managing the project once it begins.
Consider the size of their project load
A builder who is managing a very large number of projects simultaneously may not be able to give each one the attention it needs. Ask how many projects they typically run at once, and how they manage site presence and supervision.
Trust your judgment
The relationship between a homeowner and their builder typically runs for twelve months or more. Choose someone you trust, who communicates clearly, and who you feel confident will deal with problems honestly when they arise, because some always do in construction.
If you want to see how a builder's finished work holds up in person, view completed Ottimo Homes projects across Canberra, or read about how our build process works from first conversation to handover.
Planning a project in Canberra? Start a conversation with Ottimo Homes.
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