CHOOSING A BUILDER

Classic Constructions and Melinda Boag Designs, “The Balcombe” Denman Prospect

Building or renovating a home is one of the largest investments you will make in your lifetime. Ensuring you undertake all necessary checks before choosing a builder will assist you in making this decision. Knowing the essential questions to ask and what you should expect from your builder is fundamental to this process.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM MY BUILDER?

• Open and clear communication • A mutual understanding of the works to be completed, as outlined in the building contract • A commitment to ensuring the prescribed works align with the agreed budget • Quality craftsmanship which, within reason, meets the agreed timeframe

HOW CAN I ENSURE I HAVE UNDERTAKEN NECESSARY DUE DILIGENCE BEFORE CHOOSING A BUILDER?

1 Research – find out about the builder’s experience, craftsmanship, licences and insurances 2 References – ask to inspect the builders previous projects or speak with previous clients. 3 Fit for Purpose – not all builders are expert in all types of buildings. Renovations are best undertaken by builders with renovation experience, new builds are best completed by new home builders. If you have a special requirement, such as sustainable design, check that your builder has the relevant experience.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THINGS AREN’T WORKING OUT BETWEEN ME AND MY BUILDER?

Disputes can occur when communication lines between a client and builder break down, often resulting in a failure to meet obligations under the building contract. It’s important to seek help early if a dispute arises and ensure that any concerns are raised in writing to the builder. If a dispute cannot be resolved, there are organisations in the ACT which you can submit a complaint to. For more information on this, turn to page 53 for key contacts.

WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE TO BUILD WITH A MASTER BUILDER?

Members of Master Builders ACT represent the top builders and tradespeople in Canberra and the surrounding region. By choosing an MBA member, you are choosing a higher standard of builder or tradesperson, who is committed to excellence and takes pride in their reputation.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FROM THE MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION? Members of Master Builders ACT represent the top builders and tradespeople in Canberra and the surrounding region. Satisfied clients make satisfied members, therefore we have an interest in helping our members satisfy their client’s needs. Master Builders ACT can help explain the MBA Domestic building contract, explain the fidelity fund process, and with your builder’s consent, help resolve minor disputes.

Barristers & Solicitors O CONNOR HARRIS

Since 1982 our firm has supported the legal needs of the people of Canberra and its business community

BUILDING LAW

CONVEYANCING

FAMILY LAW

REGULATORY PROSECUTIONS

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WILLS & PROBATE

For legal advice please call us on: (02) 6247 6077

Email: reception@oconnorharris.com.au Web: www.oconnorharris.com.au

WHAT DO CONSUMERS SAY ABOUT THE MBA AND ITS MEMBERS?

Capital Veneering and Rosin Bros, O’Connor

94% OF CONSUMERS ARE AWARE OF THE MBA BRAND 87% OF CONSUMERS SAY THAT THEY WOULD BE INFLUENCED TO HIRE A BUILDER IF THEY HELD AN MBA MEMBERSHIP Results extracted from Footprints Market Research. Research conducted in January 2019. Sample size: 235 participants 83% OF CONSUMERS BELIEVE THERE IS AN ADVANTAGE IN USING A MBA MEMBER

REAL QUOTES FROM CONSUMERS ABOUT MBA MEMBERS

I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the amazing job you have done in building our house. We were initially hesitant to build (at all) as we knew the process was time consuming and quite stressful, but our experience has been anything but that. From the very beginning with the warm welcome we received at the display village right through to the practical completion inspection, the team has been helpful, accommodating and has made the whole building experience wonderful and easy. - Googong resident

They completely changed our house into a home. We have the most incredible outdoor living areas now and we can’t keep our kid inside! These guys genuinely changed our whole lifestyle and got everything done quickly, professionally and in time for spring. - Wright resident

Their flexibility is indeed legendary! They organised getting the plans approved and arranged for demolition. We made one trip to Canberra before the start of the build to finalise the design and make initial selections from the wide range of options and materials available. As the build progressed, it was obvious that we could have complete confidence in their management of the process. - Turner resident

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With more than 30 years of experience in the building industry, our friendly staff and online ordering system make it very easy to purchase the supplies you need for all building, renovation and DIY projects.

MASTER BUILDERS EXCELLENCE AWARDS

WHAT ARE THE AWARDS?

The Master Builders Excellence Awards are a celebration of the best residential, commercial and civil projects from across the Canberra region. The awards represent excellence in the building and construction industry and recognise the incredible work of Master Builders members. Take a look at some of the previous winners of House of the Year from the past four years on the following pages.

HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2019 Classic Constructions & TT Architecture, Holt Inspired by multi-generational living and large-scale entertaining, this extraordinary home was masterfully created by renowned builders, Classic Constructions, in collaboration with TT Architecture. A complete one-of-a-kind, this amazing resort style home is a symbol of sophistication and distinction. The six-bedroom, six-bathroom House of the Year, offers privacy, solar gain and outstanding views. Marry this with intelligent design, innovation, faultless quality and functionality, and you have a laudable property that is striking, yet totally liveable.

HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2018 Better Building Services, DNA Architects & Sugar Designs, Denman Prospect The 2018 House of The Year showcases thought-provoking ideas for future residential designs. The strong symmetrical lines and confident use of innovative exterior materials has enabled Better Building Services, DNA Architects and Sugar Designs to create a bold statement, in a spectacular example of ultra-contemporary architecture. Overall the design of this striking home is as complex as it was exciting. The creative use of materials makes an impressive statement. The large cantilevered roof over the living room terrace creates an incredibly strong roof form, which in turn generates the building’s identity.

HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2017 Preferred Builders & DNA Architects, Yarralumla The design for this new residence had to take advantage of the northern orientation, whilst being mindful of the limitations of having an easement to the northern boundary and a significant tree to the south. An added complexity was that it was a corner block with dual aspect, one of which was overlooking Adelaide Avenue past a green buffer zone. The house is the ultimate form of sustainability achieving a 6 star energy rating along with a large water retention tank below the garage, which is reused for flushing and irrigation.

HOUSE OF THE YEAR 2016 Better Building Services, DNA Architects & Sugar Designs, Googong A reimagining of the classic country retreat, the Wells Place Project blends the best of liveability, technology and sustainability to create a home that stands the test of time. Sited for spectacular views and great solar passive advantage, the home’s design features light and airy indoor spaces that integrate seamlessly with the surrounding countryside. The owners can take in the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding them from all angles. Combining colour, texture and contour, Better Building Services has created a home that complements its landscape, with a modest exterior that belies the grandeur and luxury found within its walls.