When considering hiring a design-build home builder, you want to find a good fit in terms of experience, communication, transparency, and process. Early on in your hiring process ,it's important to ask the right questions when vetting potential builders. You don't want to have to change contractors midway through your project or risk having your project fail to meet expectations. The best questions are ones that uncover how they work, how they handle problems, and whether they’re a match for your expectations. Here are 6 questions we recommend you ask your potential home builder.
1. What is your design-build process, and how are decisions made along the way?
Have your builder take you through the typical steps of a project and in what order they occur. The builder's process should be detailed, organized, easy to understand and logical. Ask for a sample timeline and list of milestones from a project similar to yours. Make sure you feel comfortable with the process and how it is explained to you.
2. Have you completed projects similar to mine in size, style, and budget?
A leading design-build company will have a portfolio of similar projects and should be able to easily provide example images of like projects. Your builder should be able to advise you on the viability of your project budget based on it's complexity, finishes and square footage. If you don't feel confident in their experience or capabilities look for another builder.
3. What’s included in a project estimate, and how do you handle changes or cost overruns?
A home build or renovation can be a long term project and material prices can vary depending on supply chain issues however, the design and labour fees are less volatile. Ensuring your project is a success starts with good planning and continues through effective communication and cost management. Your builder's process is for ensuring the project meets the budget and how to handle any overruns should inspire confidence.
4. Can you provide references from recent clients and show me examples of the completed work?
Your builder will happily provide references from past clients, will have positive reviews on Google, testimonials on their website and can give you a list of completed addresses you can drive by and see. Ask if they are members of HAVAN or any other industry organizations. If the builder seems dodgy or unsure about sharing references walk away.
5. Who will be my main point of contact during the project, and how is communication handled?
Having a main point of contact and developing a good relationship with your builder is key. The person who manages your project or liaises with you should be friendly, efficient and inspire confidence that you are being taken care of.
6. How do you ensure quality control during construction — and what happens if something goes wrong after move-in?
Home building and renovation projects are large, long and complex with many moving parts. Choose a builder who has a good track record and been in business for many years. Your builder should have standard operating procedures and processes for handling issues. While the 2-5-10 warranty is standard in B.C., make sure you get a clear explanation of the builder's policies and procedures and ensure they provide the 2-5-10 warranty documentation.
Before you commit to a design-build home builder make sure you feel confident and secure they are a good match for you and your home project. If you have any questions about your home project contact Novell via this form.
