Once you have a shortlist, give each builder the same project brief and compare their approach as well as the price. This overview focuses on scope, site assessment, references and communication. Use our pre-contract checks for licensing and paperwork, and our builder interview questions at your site meetings.
Give each builder the same brief
Describe the rooms and structural changes involved, the finish you want, your budget limits and any access or occupancy constraints. Separate essential work from optional upgrades. If each builder prices a different scope, the totals will not be comparable.
Compare the site assessment
Ask what each builder needs to inspect before fixing the price. Existing structure, services, access and unfinished design decisions may affect the work. Compare how clearly they identify unknowns and explain what is included, excluded or allowed for.
Look at relevant work and references
Ask for examples relevant to your scope, not just attractive photos. With the client's permission, ask how communication, changes, site protection and handover were handled. A reference helps you understand the working relationship, not guarantee the same outcome.
Agree how the job will be managed
- Who is your day-to-day contact?
- How will progress and decisions be recorded?
- How are changes scoped and agreed?
- What access is needed if you remain in the home?
- What happens at handover and when an issue is reported?
Separate selection from contract checks
A clear conversation is not a substitute for checking credentials and the contract. Before signing, work through our licence, insurance and contract checklist. For a fuller meeting agenda, use the questions to ask a renovation builder.
If your scope is still taking shape, start with planning a home renovation. To discuss an actual project, see our home renovation service.
Planning a renovation on the Gold Coast or Logan? Get an honest, fixed-price quote from QBCC-licensed professionals who return your call.
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