Deciding to embark on an exciting Home Extension and Renovation project? To help ensure you remain fully informed throughout the process, our team at Capital Building has compiled some questions you should always ask your Home Extension and Renovation design consultant before getting started.
Questions to Determine Your Home Extension and Renovation Designer’s Ability
What is Your Level of Experience?
A non-negotiable is that your Home Renovation Designer has a strong history of study and practical experience behind them. You need to know early on if they are new to the field, as their experience level will help you gauge how likely they are to deliver on your expectations.
Have You Completed Similar Projects in the Past?
If you have a specific type of project in mind, it’s essential to ask if the Designer has completed similar projects with previous clients. If so, they should be able to offer evidence of their experience by sharing detailed information about the projects they have undertaken and how successful they were in completing them. Doing this will indicate whether they will be able to successfully complete your project and whether they understand the specific requirements that come with extending and renovating a Home.
Can You Provide Testimonials from Previous Clients?
When you’re vetting a potential House Extension and Renovation design consultant, be sure to ask for testimonials from their previous clients. In addition to the samples of work provided, this will be a great way to get first-hand insights into what it’s like to work with the Designer and whether they’re likely to deliver on their promises.
Can You Provide Proof of Current Builder’s Registration, Insurances and Warranties?
Before starting any work, you must receive proof of current Builder’s registration with the Victoria Building Authority (VBA). This can be confirmed by searching for the proposed Builders name on the VBA’s website.
You must also ensure that the Builder is holding the correct insurances and offering warranties. This includes:
- Public Liability and Contract Works Insurance. This covers the Builder for damage resulting from the works to the public and the Owners Home respectively.
- Homeowners Warranty Insurance. This covers the Owner if the Builder is unable to fulfil the contract. For example, if the Builder passes away during construction.
- Structural Warranty, this covers the Owner against issues with the structure of the build. For example, if there is significant movement in the structure of the Home. This is provided for 7 years and 10 years for more significant defects.
- Defects and liability, this typically lasts for 90 days and ensures defects resolved within a reasonable timeframe.
These protections are commonplace and industry standard, but it’s still best to confirm with your chosen Builder that they are offering them.
Questions to Discuss the Exterior & Interior Home Design Renovation Project with Your Consultant
What Measures Would You Recommend to Bring My Vision to Life?
The very first, and most important question to ask yourself – what is my budget? The design should be based on this key requirement in your brief. The size and level of amenity included are going to be the greatest expenses. Therefore, a Designer that can use space efficiently is going to ensure your project becomes a reality.
Otherwise, your Home Extension and Renovation Design Consultant should have lots of great ideas and suggestions to make your vision a reality. Ask them for their recommendations on materials, layout, and anything else so you are as informed as possible on the journey ahead.
Is My Vision Unique?
If your Extension and Renovation project has been a long time coming, then you likely have a range of different ideas for updating the exterior and interior design of the space. That said, it’s always a good idea to ask your House Extension and Renovation Designer if your vision is unique. It offers the opportunity to discuss new ideas that will make your Home more original, ensure they understand what you’re hoping to achieve and that they can provide the best possible design solution.
What are Your Delivery Dates?
When planning a Home Extension and Renovation project, it’s important to know when the project will be completed. Ask your Designer for their estimated delivery date so you can plan accordingly, and keep all teams organised, on schedule and accountable.
Questions to Ask Your House Renovation Designer Regarding the Build
Are You Offering a Fixed Price Contract?
A fixed-price contract guarantees that the project’s total cost will not exceed the agreed-upon amount. This type of contract protects both the Homeowner and the Contractor and gives both parties peace of mind knowing that the budget won’t blow out. It is good to think deeply about what should be included in your project.
What Will Occur Should the Scope of Work Change During the Project?
If changes to the scope of work are made during the project, it’s essential to know how this will affect both the timeline and budget. In some cases, a change in scope can cause delays and increase costs. It’s essential to clearly understand how these changes will be handled with your Contractor.
Are We Able to Continue Living at the Property During the Renovation?
It is possible for Owner’s to live at home during an extension and renovation, but it will depend on the work involved. If amenities like a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry remain operational during a build, it can often be accommodated for majority of the construction programme. Although Owner’s (in consultation with their Builder) will need to carefully consider the impact the work will have on their family. Dust and noise become unavoidable during construction, which can be uncomfortable. Having said that, if living at home is doable, it can help save on cost in living elsewhere.
Ready to start the conversation and explore the potential for Home Extensions and Renovations in Melbourne? Contact us at Capital Building today.
