10 Critical Steps You Need to Know Before Beginning Your Building Project

Beginning a building project can be an incredibly stressful time. If you don’t take the right steps before your project, you will likely be faced with time and money costs. And it could have been prevented if you knew to take the critical steps! Roger Ramsey Building, an expert provider of Waikato renovations have released a free E-book. This E-book details the necessary steps you must take for your project to be a success. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Making Your Wishlist

Think about the benefits you wish to achieve. Think about all the things your current home or building isn’t offering which you would really enjoy. You may also want to consider a healthier living environment, the materials and style and the use of different parts of your project.

2. Creating a Budget

“It is important to have a figure in mind and to have a clear idea of the costs involved. Get a quote from a reputable local builder. Explain exactly what you want to do and discuss various options. Then, take the estimate and add 10 to 15 % for unexpected costs.”

3. Find an Architect

If you are getting someone to design for you, there are many options you need to consider. Research which type of designed will suit you best and then go from there.

4. Find a Builder

The best way to find a builder is through referrals and research. Things to consider when choosing your Builder:

• Are they trade qualified and a member of an association? (Master Builders / Certified Builders)
• Do they need to be a licensed building practitioner to complete your project? (from March 2012 all structural work must be completed by a LBP)
• Are they residential specialists?
• How many years of experience, especially in renovation do they have? (Not all tradesmen are created equal)

5. Go through Concept Plans with Your Preferred Builder

Your builder can provide fresh insight while reviewing and revising your plans. Discuss timeframes, unmissable dates, and the order of work.

6. Revisions With Architect and Builder

At this point, changes need to be thoroughly reviewed and understood. Changes are now less expensive than making changes after the plan has been submitted to the Council.

7. Checking the Quote

“At some stage you will need to decide whether you prefer a fixed price or cost reimbursement. A fixed price may seem the preferred option due to the certainty of cost. A cost reimbursement project will charge based on a time and materials actually used, which may mean further costs or savings against the original quote. Ensure you are comparing apples with apples especially if a fixed price or tender.”

8. Applying for Building Permit

“Building codes and local council regulations may also limit what and how you renovate. There’s nothing worse than discovering the project you have painstakingly planned is not allowed. Talk to your local building consent authority and find out about consent requirements and permits.”

9. Appoint the Builder

Always get a written contract outlining the work to be done, the cost and how the payments will be made. Never agree to anything before getting it in writing.

10. Consider Engaging Other Consultants

Other consultants may include kitchen designers and interior designers. Roger Ramsey Building suggests “Be comfortable with the way your designer communicates and their alignment with your personal values. Positive relationships lead to positive outcomes.”

Information sourced and curated from Roger Ramsey Building E-book. Click here to receive the free full in-depth guide.