It’s easy to overlook important details on your home renovation project. Even if you hire a professional to handle all the work, it’s still helpful to prepare your own checklist. Apart from getting things organised, a home renovation checklist can also give you an overview of your project. It also makes it easier to see the progress of each phase of your reno job. Here are some things that you ought to include in your list:
1. Builder qualifications and contracts
If your project costs more than $5000, you should look for a registered building practitioner. This assures you that they are capable of handling your job. Also, since it’s a bigger project with bigger expenses, you’ll have to deal with greater risks as well — a contract might just save you in case anything goes wrong.
Make sure that the documents specify your builder’s responsibilities as this makes them legally accountable for the work that they do. Don’t forget to read and understand the contract; this will definitely save you from disputes and possible cost overruns.
2. Warranties and insurance
Products and other materials used in renovating your property should have warranties. On top of that, your contractor should provide a workmanship warranty, and they should be fully insured.
3. Building permits
Find out if you need planning and building permits. You can authorise your builder to handle this for you, but you’re still responsible for ensuring that proper documentation is obtained for your home renovation project.
4. Payments
Typically, building contractors implement progress payments for large renovations. Make sure to clear this up with your builder and that the payment schedule is included in your contract. This allows you to plan your finances more effectively.
5. Building inspections
A large renovation project means that regular inspections need to be carried out. It’s advisable to go for independent building inspectors as they can give you unbiased results. Also, this way, you can be sure that your builder’s work has met Australian building standards.
ServiceSeeking.com.au has many qualified and reliable building contractors; have a look at our list of top renovators.
