Having said this, the information that is provided here will give you a thorough guide to follow when considering the subject of builders. For specific information on the laws applicable in your state you will need to contact the relevant governing body, listed below are some links to the building authority in your state;

Are you thinking of building your dream home? Maybe youre about to renovate, extend or repair your existing home. It can be one of the best times in your life. However, because there is so much at stake, it can also be a time of great stress and confusion. During this time your builder may become your best friend or your worst nightmare. The information presented below is aimed to help you choose the right builder

For one thing, you will have to decide on what exactly it is that you want a builder to do. There are designs, plans, materials and deadlines to consider. You will need to obtain quotes for the work. You will have to discuss the question of insurance. And you will have to think carefully about financial matters. Building or renovating can represent the biggest financial outlay you will ever make. After all those considerations, you will have to sign an important contract that will spell out the responsibilities for both you and the builder or tradesperson you are using.

What is a builder?

A builder is a person whose main task is to manage and co-ordinate home building or renovation projects. Many builders today do not do actual building work themselves. They take your plans and specifications (or produce them for you) and turn your dream home into a reality. They manage the purchase and delivery of materials and co-ordinate the work of tradespeople such as plumbers, painters and carpenters who are involved in the project.

Builders and Tradespeople

• Only deal with a builder or tradesperson who is licensed with the building Authority in your state. Builders and tradespeople have to demonstrate appropriate training and experience before the issuing of a contractor licence.

• Ask to see the builders or tradespersons licence before you sign any contract. Also, the licence must be for the specific type of work that you want done. For example, a person holding a licence to do plumbing work cannot do building work and vice versa.

• As a form of consumer protection, builders and tradespeople must have the appropriate home warranty insurance to cover defective or incomplete work.

Once you find a builder or tradesperson, and before you sign any contract, dont forget to:

• Ask to see their Contractor licence, making sure that it is current and that the category of work shown on the licence matches the type of work you want done.

• Do a licence check with the authority in your state

• Check the details on the certificate of insurance before work commences.