The Top 10 Questions To Ask Your Multi-Unit Builder
10 questions to ask your multi-unit builder
Finding the right multi-unit builder is essential for the success of your property development project. Your multi-unit development builder is going to be responsible for the quality and delivery of this very significant investment. So how do make sure you choose the right team? Ask lots of questions and compare not only the responses, but also communication styles, and the willingness and time taken to answer them.
Some good questions to ask your multi-unit development builder before making your final decision are listed below.
Q1. Can I see your portfolio?
Your builder should specialize in the type of development you want to build. Multi-unit developments are significantly different to single dwelling projects. Also take note of the building designs and materials used. If your builder specialises in traditional style homes and you’re after a more modern design, ask if they have prior projects that more closely fit your brief.
A. delcon are a quality design and construct team based in Melbourne, specializing in multi-unit developments and quality custom homes. Our portfolio contains images of our recent work and is available on our website, here.
Q2. Can I get a list of references from previous clients? May I speak with them?
Prior clients are often a great reference source. They will either be singing their builders’ praises, or be very quick to warn you away.
A. delcon have testimonials publically available on our website. We are also happy to provide references from current and prior clients who would be more than willing to speak with you about their experience. This includes clients who have built multi-unit development projects, and also custom homes in Melbourne.
Q3. What is your builder registration number?
It’s important to know that your builder is registered. Builders who are not registered, are legally not allowed to complete work over $10,000. Additionally, there are legitimate concerns about currency, qualifications and insurance with a builder who cannot provide a license number. With no registration, your complaint and protection avenues are also limited.
A. delcon design and construct are a licensed building company based in Melbourne (Registered Building Practioner CDB-U 51048) registered with Victorian Building Authority and are members of Master Builder Association of Victoria.
Q4. What insurance do you have?
Your builder should have minimum $5 million in public liability insurance, as well as construction insurance annually or job by job, and be eligible for home warranty insurance. Home Warranty Insurance protects homeowners for losses caused by death, disappearance or insolvency of their builders during construction, and also covers the homeowner for 6 and a half years post completion on structural issues, and for 2 years on non-structural issues.
A. delcon maintain currency of all insurances at or exceeding the levels indicated above.
Q5. What deposit is required for my multi-unit development project?
Legally, your builder is not allowed to request more than 5% deposit prior to the commencement of your build.
A. delcon request and accept 5% of construction costs as deposit upon contract signing.
Q6. What is the build process?
A multi-unit development build process is more complicated than a single dwelling build. The process can vary between councils, and is dependent on a few different factors. For more information and a FREE PDF, A Step by Step Guide to Multi-Unit Development, click here.
A. The delcon team will work with you from the early planning stages to walk you through each stage of your build. Our turn-key service ensures that you are always fully informed of the process of your Melbourne based multi-unit development, but you rest easy in the knowledge that our experienced team are handling all the moving parts effectively and efficiently.
Q7. What is the process for variations?
Variations are changes to the build made after the contract is signed and the design, permits or build process is underway. Depending on the variations, further engineering and other costs can change. It’s good to know in advance what any late alterations you make will cost, and the time they will take.
A. delcon work hard in the initial stages to provide you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions regarding the design of your Melbourne build. This in depth process helps to minimise any changes needed down the track. If variations do occur, we will quote the cost of the change prior to the amendment for your approval.
Q8. Can I see a contract template?
Your Building Contract and Project Specifications documentation determine the outcome of your multi-unit development. It’s important to be clear on the full set of inclusions and exclusions prior to signing.
A. delcon can provide our Melbourne based clients with copies of the building contract prior to signing. The Project Specifications inclusions and exclusions are not standard and these are developed together with the client based on the specific project.
Q9. What are your quality control and occupational health and safety measures?
Quality and safety are two important areas of your build. A reputable builder with the right processes in place will be able to confidently answer these questions for you.
A. delcon take on only a limited number of builds each year to ensure that directors Daniel and the delcon team can maintain their hands on approach. You’ll work with our directors from the very first phone call, and they’ll personally be present on your build looking after the details, to ensure your dream becomes reality. This approach is both external on your build, and internal within the company. Every detail, including the health and safety of our team and trades is managed with training and implemented procedure.
Q10. Will I meet the designer / project manager / site manager before I sign, or just the sales team?
It’s a good idea to meet the team that will be bringing your multi-unit development to life. These are the people you’ll really be working with on the journey that’s likely to span 12-24 months. Make sure that your communication styles match, and that you’re on the same page about your vision.
A. At delcon, you’ll work with our directors from commencement to completion. Daniel and the delcon team will manage each aspect of your build, and walk you through the process. You can also choose to speak with your building designer in the early planning stages.
To ask any other questions, give delcon a call today on 1800 335 266