Choose the right professional for the job

Whether you’re making a few small home improvements, undertaking major renovations or building a new home, you want to be sure things to go plan given the time and cost that is often involved. So how do you choose the right builder?

People often rely on word-of-mouth, but it’s also important to make sure you take into account builders’ training, skills and experience. If you are new to an area ask friends and neighbors for recommendations. If there’s a trade body such as Master Painters or Master Joiners, ask them for a recommendation. Follow up references and ask to look at their work if you feel it necessary. Check any guarantees on offer, the terms, and if there is any additional cost involved.

Be very clear about what you want and ask the advice and guidance of your builder who often can suggest alternatives. Firm up on your ideas and be specific because the more specific you are the greater chance of getting an accurate quote and minimizing the chance for misunderstandings.

Get a number of quotes (not estimates), at least two or three, and take time to make sure you are comparing like with like. Agree to the job in writing what is to be done, how long it will take, labour and materials to be used for the job and the final cost including GST. Consumers can have confidence in engaging a builder that is a member of New Zealand Certified Builders Association (NZCB). In order to be eligible for membership builders must be trade-qualified. Trade-qualification means that a builder or tradesperson has robust minimum standards of training and skill. Registered Master Joiners provide full consultation and design services for all joinery needs and work closely with other design professionals to ensure that the finished product looks and functions at its best. Under the Building Amendment Act, if the work you intend to do includes work to the primary structure of your house or its weather tightness, it’s call Restricted building Work. This work can only be done or supervised by tradespeople who are Licensed Building Practitioners. (LBP’s).