What questions should I ask a local North Shore builder?

As a homeowner, choosing a good builder in Sydney’s North Shore to help you transform your most important asset isn’t always an easy decision, especially with the increasing number of builder complaints due to poor workmanship and quality and not to mention, the shortage of good and available builders in the North Shore.

The right builder should have the technical skills, experience, resources and professionalism to be “your builder”.

We list down the most important questions to ask in making a selection.

1. What is your business set-up?

Home building is a serious trade. It takes dedication and passion to deliver the best results while keeping up with the tides. Look for a full-time builder to work on your home.

Avoid any Sydney builder that is proposing a part-time set-up because this may potentially delay your project.

And do not settle for builders promising you better “cash deals” or is not willing to give you a contract for works. Often, you get what you pay for and a cheap deal can often end up being more costly.

Professional builders have a full- time set-up, have a concern for high standards and reputation, meaning they will protect you and themselves by operating right and with full contracts in place.

2. How long have you been in the home building business and what is your experience?

While there may be good builders that have only been in the business for a short period of time, those who have been around for years should be a safer bet.

Good and reliable builders will be proud of their track record and they should have no problem sharing it with you. Look for someone who can tell you about their training, experience, background and past work. Ask them about their strengths including what sets them apart from other builders.

3. Are you a member of a professional association?

If the builder belongs to a NSW building professional association or local business networking groups in the North Shore, it generally adds to their level of ethics, credibility and customer care. Most of these organisations have eligibility requirements including a good reputation.

4. Can you give references of clients in the North Shore?

As mentioned, a good North Shore builder will be proud of their track record. They can also give you their past clients to justify their quality of work. Hear out from people who have worked with the builder and even go see their recent jobs around the North Shore and speak to their local clients. As they say, “seeing is believing” and when you could be spending tens of thousands of dollars or more with a builder, then trust me, you want to see it!

This is one of the best assessments you can get and something we always encourage users of service to do.

Need help with other local businesses in Sydney’s North Shore?

Whether you are buying, selling, moving or renovating your home, our Tradebusters Connect North Shore Sydney free local directory service can help connect you with trusted local businesses like tradesmen, real estate and property professionals, and more.