With the right builder, you’ll enjoy the process as well as the outcome.

To help you, we’ve prepared 10 questions to ask your prospective builder when you first meet them.

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You can also access a nice printable version in this pdf, which should also be winging its way to your inbox.

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1. Are you a licensed builder practitioner?

Tip: For anything more than a little renovation, you will need a licensed building practitioner.

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2. What else are you working on at the moment?

Tip: Their answer will give you a clue about how they will treat you during the build. Will you be given full attention during the build or will ou be ‘just another job’?

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3. What happens if something unexpected comes up during the build? Tip: A good builder will be upfront with you about who bears the costs of unexpected changes. As a general rule, you only want to pay more than the agreed price if you have asked the builder to do extra work or use different materials.

 

4. How do you stay in touch with clients?

Tip: Some builders don’t like their clients on-site, but we think this is a red flag! Regular communication is important for both parties.

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5. What kind of an agreement will we need to sign?

Tip: Don’t start your build without a signed written agreement. This should explain when you have to pay and will make you both confident about the arrangement.

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6. What is not included in your price?

Tip: Some builders will quote you a “provisional sum”, which is an estimate because they are unable to specify some costs. This is normal practice. But make sure they’re not quoting you a low ‘provisional sum’ to get you in the door - only to raise the price later on.

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7. How long have you been working in Christchurch?

Tip: You want a builder who is well-connected here locally. They’ll have a long list of sub-contractors they trust, so they’ll always be able to find somebody in the busy times. Plus they’ll be able to get you the best prices on products.

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8. Where can we see some of your previous work?

Tip: Your builder should be able to point you to several recent builds and should welcome you driving past to view them. If not, that’s a warning sign.

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9. What happens if we disagree about something during the build?

Tip: If they brush off your question, this is a red flag. It’s best to have this confirmed in your written agreement so you have something to refer back to.

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10. What kind of warranty is included? 

Tip: Look for a builder who is registered either with the Master Builders Association or NZ Certified Builders. We're registered with the NZCB and this provides you with a 10-year residential guarantee to protect you. This warranty provides much greater protection than both the Building Act and Consumer Guarantees Act.