Ground Floor & Second Storey Specialists
Continued success of Complete Construction & Design is based on the key principles boutique service with volume pricing.
With so many new exciting materials available in the building industry today the possibilities are endless, building your extension, new home or renovation is only limited by imagination. Each project is delivered by a dedicated, experienced and professional team striving for the best possible finished product.
All of our projects are fixed price contracts and all are delivered on time.
We pride ourselves on knowing we have the best;
- Designs
- Trades people
- Materials
- Finishes, Fixtures & Fittings
- Energy efficient strategies
- Attention to detail
Please feel free to browse the site and contact us if you would like to talk about your project.
Complete Construction News and Information:
Things to Keep in Mind When Renovating
There are many things to consider when renovating, building a new house or extending your current home. It can be easy to overlook or even be unaware of some aspects.
The following are some of the things to keep in mind during the planning process.
Before you start work on your renovations, you or your building company need to contact your local council to find out whether any permits are required.
Your local government authorities will provide you with information on regulations and requirements in your local area.
Did you know?
Extensions and renovations that involve structural changes to your home are building projects under Victorian law, regardless of the size and cost.
You are required to have a major domestic building contract for work over $5000. This includes renovations, extensions, alterations, repairs of a home, landscaping, paving, driveways, fencing, retaining structures, garages, workshops, swimming pools and spas. It also includes the preparation of plans or specifications by the builder for the work.
Keep in mind that planning and approvals, like council permits, can take a long time to finalise.
Money
If you spend more on your additions or renovations than the house will be valued at completion (over capitalising), then you may end up losing money in the long term.
When planning your home improvements, make sure you have a clear sense of what you want and stick to it. Otherwise, you may find that you go over budget.
Make sure that you have written contracts with your building company or any trades people you employ.
It can be more expensive to fix problems than the cost of the original work so be sure of what you want and clear with any instructions.
Remember, renovating, extending and additions to your home can be very disrupting. You may even be required to move out for a period of time.
Hints and Tips When Renovating
The following hints and tips are worth some consideration – they may save you from headaches and confusion during your renovation process.
- Spend time on research. The more you look at, ask about and read, the clearer you will be about exactly what it is you want.
- Shop around to find out what you can get for your money. The cheapest may not always be the best, especially if corners are cut or the materials being used are not up to standard.
- Make sure your builder is registered and has domestic building insurance.
Do not be pressured.
- Don’t sign an agreement before you are really ready.
- Your plans and specifications should be detailed, suit your land, meet all regulations and are within your budget.
- Check your contract carefully before you sign. It should be fixed and include all details.
Payments
- Do not pay your deposit until the builder gives you the domestic building insurance policy and certificate of currency and you have contacted the insurer to check the policy number is correct and applies to your home.
- Pay the correct deposit and stage payments but do not pay for work unless it is complete.
- The deposit should be no more than 10% for works costing up to $20,000 and 5% of the total contract price of works costing over $20,000.
- Do not make the final payment until you are completely sure that all your contract requirements have been met.
Importantly,
- Maintain a good working relationship with your builder, keeping up communications.
- Use your legal right to visit the site regularly.
- Act immediately if you think work is faulty or incomplete. Discuss your concerns with your builder straight away.
Options
- You may wish to choose your own building surveyor and have independent experts check your project.
- Should you find yourself in dispute with your builder and are unable to reach an agreement, contact the Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria (BACV) on 1300 55 75 59.
For more advice visit consumer.vic.gov.au/building or The Building Commission.
