Selecting builder for extension - whats next?

splashthecash

Hi all,

We are planning an extension in the next month and have gotten in 3 builders quotes and I think we have the selection made - my questions are

1. Is there any specific certification\accreditation I should be checking that the proposed builder has to ensure everything is done right and above board?
2. I presume next step is after I select a builder, a contract or agreement is put in place that details out the scope of work and the timeline etc. - is there a standard format this should take?
3. Who initiates\drafts this agreement? I presume the builder as I would have no idea where to start

Thanks!

BryanF

Have you a drawing/spec?

splashthecash

BryanF wrote: »

Have you a drawing/spec?

Yes, I have a drawing which was sent out to builders for tendering purposes

Gumbo

splashthecash wrote: »

Hi all,

We are planning an extension in the next month and have gotten in 3 builders quotes and I think we have the selection made - my questions are

1. Is there any specific certification\accreditation I should be checking that the proposed builder has to ensure everything is done right and above board?
2. I presume next step is after I select a builder, a contract or agreement is put in place that details out the scope of work and the timeline etc. - is there a standard format this should take?
3. Who initiates\drafts this agreement? I presume the builder as I would have no idea where to start

Thanks!

1. Certification will come from the professional you have engaged to inspect the works. Architect, engineer or surveyor.

2. Scope of work should be done by now? Surely all builders priced to the same scope?

3. RIAI contract maybe. Done in conjunction with your professional.

mickdw

My advice would be to not fall for the builder with the glossy brochure and the sales pitch, better go with a recommendation from a friend.
Get your own Engineer to supervise works. Do not allow the builder to spec the works and do not allow the builder to source the Engineer. The Engineer must be working for you and looking after your interest.
Its unbelieveable the amount of times builder tells client they will get job certified, bring in an engineer friend and client ends up with a botch job.

splashthecash

Gumbo wrote: »

1. Certification will come from the professional you have engaged to inspect the works. Architect, engineer or surveyor. Yes, we have our own architect

2. Scope of work should be done by now? Surely all builders priced to the same scope? Yes,all builders quoted the same scope, however the costing from one was quite lighter on detail than the others so I'd like to get that fleshed out more to cover myself (and him)

3. RIAI contract maybe. Done in conjunction with your professional.

Bold above

splashthecash

mickdw wrote: »

My advice would be to not fall for the builder with the glossy brochure and the sales pitch, better go with a recommendation from a friend.
Get your own Engineer to supervise works. Do not allow the builder to spec the works and do not allow the builder to source the Engineer. The Engineer must be working for you and looking after your interest.
Its unbelieveable the amount of times builder tells client they will get job certified, bring in an engineer friend and client ends up with a botch job.

My architect will be available to perform inspections and provide the necessary signoff. The builder we are leaning toward has done a decent sized piece of work close by and I've spoken with them and they seem very happy with the job

mickdw

splashthecash wrote: »

My architect will be available to perform inspections and provide the necessary signoff. The builder we are leaning toward has done a decent sized piece of work close by and I've spoken with them and they seem very happy with the job

You are in good shape so.
Nail down as much as possible in terms of scope of whats included and spec to avoid issues later.

Gumbo

Also, a good question to ask the builder is what is he not doing?
Ask him what will be left to do for you to move in and live there?