Deciding what you want is never easy. Most
people see what they like from magazines; visit
show homes, open homes, and suppliers etc. The
first point of call is employing a good relationship
with your architect, so choose one that best
fit your requirements, that is if you are keen
on a cottage-style house choose an architect
which is suited to that style. Know what you want before the building consent
is issued because changes (namely variations
from the consented plan) could lead to delays
in getting the work signed off. Important is
any site restrictions such as protected trees,
heritage restrictions, earthworks etc that may
affect your design. ^ Top
Decide if you are able to undertake the whole
project as people can underestimate the cost
of their alteration or addition. Architects
and builders are able to advise you on some
rule-of-thumb figures. You also need to consider
the initial costs, architect fees, council permit
fees, siteworks (earthworks etc). ^ Top
Your options are choosing between a registered
architect, a designer or a draftsperson.
Architects are professionally trained and experienced
to add a design dimension to your ideas. If
you have a definite style in mind e.g., Modern,
Spanish Mansion, Arts & Crafts etc, it might
pay to seek out an architect who shares your
preference and understands your preferred style.
If there is minimal design input involved in
your project or you have a clear brief in mind,
then a draftsperson will be a considerably cheaper
option than an architect.
A designer falls somewhere between an architect
and a draftsperson in their professional ability
and the price they charge can be a very cost
effective option.
Your architect or designer can produce a concept
plan for you to consider. After all discussions
and final decisions have been reached working
drawings will be produced. ^ Top
A bad builder could mean endless hassles and delays
and, worst of all, sub-standard quality and workmanship.
Choosing to work with a registered master builder means
that there is a backup and a 7-year building full-contract
guarantee on your building project (covering everything
that is managed by the builder). Consideration for labour
only (the builder supplies the labour, everything else
is supplied by the client); managed contract (the builder
manages the project and the sub-trades such as plumbers,
roofers but doesn’t supply the materials). Most
contracts cover payment schedules, completion dates
and details of all the guarantees offered. ^ Top
It is very common to invite tenders for the carrying
out of your works. We strongly recommend that you check
the credentials and past performance of those invited
prior to releasing documents.
We have carried many works where a contract sum is
negotiated direct with the client. In these circumstances
we, as company policy have an “open book”
procedure where every single dollar is discussed to
the client. During negotiations we have found this system
engenders complete trust with very successful outcomes.
Many of these have resulted in repeat business. ^ Top
Your builder/ project manager/ designer will gather
all the documentation necessary to prepare your building
consent application and will ensure that, if required,
a resource consent and any other permits are obtained
and paid for. Building Consent Authorities (BCA) are
required to issue or refuse a building consent within
20 working days of submission provided that all the
required information and documentation have been submitted.
If additional information is required by the BCA then
the 20 working day period is suspended until the required
information is received. Any changes after the issue
of the building consent will require an amendment to
be applied for to the BCA, this can cause delays to
the programme and completion date so it is important
to try and get the application document correct and
avoid changes to building material/layout. ^ Top
Your Project Manager should monitor the works and keep
you informed of the progress. You are responsible to
pay the invoices as per payment schedules known as progress
payments. Your builder will organise the Building Consent
Authorities inspections. This will ensure that the building
is progressing in accordance with the issued consent
and complies with the Building Code. Typical inspections
will include:
- Foundations
- Framing
- Pre-lining
- 1/2 high brick
- Plumbing
- Drainage
- Cladding and Flashings
- Finished building
Collect energy work certificates for electrical and
gas work as the relevant works are finished. ^ Top
Hopefully you have had an enjoyable experience and
are pleased with the quality and look of your project.
Now is the time to ensure that everything has been done
according to the plans and terms of your contract. Ensure
that all fees to the Building Consent Authorities and/or
Council have been paid.
Finally you need to apply for a Code Compliance Certificate
from your Building Consent Authorities and make any
remaining payments. ^ Top
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