Supplier

Fixed Price Contracts

Fixed price contracts are the most common form of domestic building agreement. As the name suggests a fixed price agreement is where the builder agrees to perform building work for a fixed sum. This provides a degree of certainty to both parties, but during a period of escalating costs the builder is likely to include […]

Bricks

In the Perth metropolitan area, a large majority of all new homes are double brick structure. However in many regional areas of WA, framed construction is very popular. One of the main reasons why double brick is so popular is because of our sandy soil. The soil type is very stable with very little ground […]

Crime Prevention

There are practical things that you can do to make your home less likely to be burgled or vandalised. For existing homeowners, this is also particularly important as holiday seasons approach when many families are away and the home may be unoccupied for a long period. The first thing is that you should ensure that […]

Charging for Quotes: Builders and Subcontractors

Charging for quotations is not a common building industry practice. But builders can pick and choose their jobs, and charge for quotes and in order to discourage “check pricing” by some consumers. A problem can arise when some financial institutions require three quotations before approving a loan amount. Many builders particularly in regional areas are […]

Decking

As the general public and builders become more environmentally aware, the pressure is on suppliers to meet their needs.   Selecting environmentally friendly construction timbers is one area where the builder has an increasing amount of choices.   ‘Eco’ timber is the common name given to timbers that are harvested with the community in mind; […]

Electricity Connections and Headworks Charges

WA Electrical requirements provide for a standard supply up to: 63 Amps single phase (Perth and major towns) 32 Amps single phase (rural areas and small towns) 32 Amps per phase for multiphase (all areas) Consumer mains size of 35mm² (all areas) A large house with air-conditioning, pool and many appliances is likely to require […]

Employer Record Keeping

Building Costs

Building costs have risen strongly in recent years and it is important that your building is accurately valued at replacement cost for insurance purposes. If you have not reviewed the “sum insured” on your home recently, then you should do so. To give you a general guide as to recent trends in building costs, you can see […]

Balconies and Decking

Pest damage, water rot, corrosion, or other physical damage to your decking or rails can occur in obscure locations.    Timber can fail for a number of reasons including incorrect timber selected (ie not suitable for an external structure), poor maintenance, or insect attack by the European House Borers or termites.   Concrete balconies can […]

Bathroom Tips

Tips to having a healthy bathroom Brand new bathrooms look clean and fresh. Sparkling tiles and tapware and transparent shower screens. But with use, the build up of soaps, cleaners, and general debris makes areas of the bathroom a breeding ground for mould and start to look old and tired quickly.   Invest in the […]