What You Should Ask Before Building Your Property (#6 Will Save You Thousands!)
Over the years, we’ve found that clients should consider six things before construction work actually begins. Getting these right early can save time, reduce costs, and ensure a smoother building journey from start to finish.
1. How do I start?
The first step is engaging an architect or draftsperson to translate your ideas into concept plans and guide you through the design process. If your project involves structural work, your designer will collaborate with a structural engineer to develop detailed engineering plans. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to finalise your design before selecting a builder — as our quote will be based off the plans. From here, we work alongside your design team throughout the process to make sure your vision becomes a reality.
2. How do I choose a builder?
Start by identifying 2–3 reputable builders in your area and request detailed, comparable quotes. This allows you to assess not only pricing but also the quality of advice tailored to your specific site.
When shortlisting builders:
Conduct ABN and background checks
Request and follow up on client references
Review previous project experience
To ensure a fair comparison between quotes, all builders must be pricing the same scope. This includes:
Material finishes
Fixtures and fittings
Allowances for services (e.g. HVAC, electrical)
Consistency here is critical, and without it comparisons can be misleading. A common mistake is selecting the lowest quote without fully understanding what’s included. In some cases, lower quotes rely on minimal or unrealistic allowances, with additional costs introduced later as variations during construction. This can result in the final build actually exceeding the cost of the higher (but more transparent) quotes.
3. What building approvals/permits do I require?
Approval requirements vary depending on your location. In many cases, you may need:
A Town Planning Permit (if required by council), ensuring your design aligns with local zoning and streetscape guidelines
A Building Permit, which is mandatory before construction begins
We can assist in coordinating the permit application process on your behalf. A Building Surveyor will then assess all documentation to ensure compliance with relevant regulations before issuing the Building Permit. If no planning permit is required, you can proceed directly to the building permit stage.
4. How long will this entire process take?
It will depend on the complexity of requirements during the design process and the complexity of the build; a rough sequential timeline is listed below:
Design Stage
Pre-design = 0 to 6 months
Planning Permit = 6 to 18 months
Building Permit = 0 to 4 months
Construction Stage
Internal Fitout = up to 4 months
Extension = 6 to 9 months
New Build = 12 to 18 months
5. Should I allow for any additional fees?
Yes. Things like gas, water, sewer, and power may require upgrades or new connections depending on your project. You should also allow for variations (changes during construction) and unforeseen site conditions. Establishing a contingency budget early and discussing it openly with your builder will help avoid surprises later.
6. What can I get for my budget?
The best advice we can give you is that before this entire process begins, be upfront with your budget. The design and construction process must fit both the brief and the budget — nailing this balance is only possible if your builder knows exactly what they’re working with. If the budget isn’t able to be met after quotes are obtained from builders, then all parties need to discuss alternative materials and methods to reduce costs without hindering the overall design intent. That’s why we recommend to select your builder in the design phase. You wouldn’t shop for a Rolls-Royce with a Toyota budget —the same principle applies to building.
If you’re looking for a residential builder in Melbourne, book a consultation with a member of our team now.