Decisions, Decisions, Decisions!

Starting a new project is always an exciting time with changes and new beginnings. The flipside of the coin is that with any project, there will be a multitude of decisions that will need to be made. This can range from the tile selection, colour paint, wood finishes to the more complex (and often more daunting) the builder or tradesperson you’re to engage to do the works.

This person or company will be pivotal on ensuring that your project is built as per regulations, instructions and/or drawings, of a high quality and to budget. Just as importantly, they will be a contributor to the enjoyment of you tackling your beloved project. At the end of the day when you finish your project, you want to love the end result and have had fun along the way!

So with this in mind, these 3 C’s might assist when you’re deciding on which qualified builder or tradie you engage:

1. Compare

To ensure that you are getting a fair and reasonable price, source at least 3 prices. What you might find is that the quotes that you will be given will be presented and worded in different formats, which can be confusing. So to work out if you’re comparing ‘apples for apples’, print off all quotes and lay beside each other. Go through ticking off the scopes to ensure each has the correct works, inclusions and exclusion. Also make notes on what seems a miss or you’d like further information. This method will provide you with a clear understanding of what is and isn’t included and what has been missed. A difference in price may sometimes be that a scope of works has been missed (eg. price for installation, removal of rubbish, incorrect number of light fittings ect).

2. Clarify

Now that you’ve compared the prices and have correlated what has been missed or what you’re unsure of, this is the opportunity to clarify. With your notations on each quote provided in front of you, contact the builder and/or tradesperson. This method ensures you are organised and can systematically work with the builder/tradesperson without confusion and distraction. Ask questions til you are satisfied that you are being given a fair price, what the scope of works are and what their and your responsibilities will be. Remember, these people are going to be sharing your journey with you, so make sure you like them and are comfortable. If not, don’t use them!

3. Conclude

This is the deciding time and by doing steps 1 & 2, you are equipped with making a well informed and thought out decision which has considered all the factors required to build your dream project. This is the step that begins the enjoyment of watching your dream become a reality, so step into it with confidence as you’ve already done all the hard work!