Frequently Asked Questions
Listening to our clients, appreciating their concerns and assisting them to understand the building process is part of our custom, collaborate to create philosophy.
Our years of experience building and renovating homes we know all too well that building a custom home can be quite overwhelming and often you have many questions.
To assist you with the building process, J6 has produced a list of frequently asked questions that we hope you find valuable. If of course, you don’t find the answer you are looking for here, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
What is a Preliminary Agreement?
A Preliminary Agreement (PA) is a common document used prior to entering into a contract. The PA does not include any building works but rather is an opportunity to gain an understanding of potential costs prior to entering a contract based on firm ideas of your construction requirements. The types of services which may be conducted by the builder under this agreement may include (but are not limited to) the following:
• Arranging a site inspection
• Identification survey
• Detailed and Contour survey
• Obtaining a soil report or geotechnical report;
• Engineering report;
• Other specialist consultant report
• Liaising with Council in regards to required approvals on your behalf.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all builders are the same so it is imperative you do your homework by ensuring your builder of choice has the processes, quality of work and level of customer service you are looking for prior to signing the contract for building works. If the client has all of these documents then J6 will be able to review and produce a tendering quote.
Why don’t we provide a square meterage rate?
We often find that potential clients ask this question in order to have a gauge or approximation of what their build will cost. Unfortunately, like builders, no two homes are the same. When providing a price to build your home we need to consider many variables such as size and slope of the block, building materials to be used both internally and externally, quality of fixtures and finishes, varying landscape requirements and so on, hence why we take the time to provide a detailed quote to each and every client.
Why do we charge a fee for a quote?
Whilst this is a hotly contested topic, each and every quote is unique and therefore pricing is specifically sourced based on your requirements. We want you to enjoy your home as much as we enjoy building it for you, that’s why we take that time to ensure your quote is accurate and comprehensive and for any occupation, time equals money!
Your small commitment of this contribution is an indication you are invested in your builder. By establishing an open and transparent relationship upfront you can be assured of a collaborative approach to construction of your home from inception to completion.
You should expect your quote to cost between $500 - $2,000 depending on the complexity of your build and therefore preparation of your quote. Should you decide to secure J6 to complete your build, we will deduct this price from the final contract amount.
What documents are required to prepare your quote?
The more specific documents you provide prior to the preparation of your quote the more specific your quotation will be. In order to provide a succinct and detailed quotation the following documents would be helpful:
• Architectural drawings
• Building schedule
• Scope of works
• Engineering design
• Site survey
• Soil test results
What are prime costs and provisional sums?
A prime cost item is an allowance in the contract for the supply of necessary items that are not yet selected eg: taps or door furniture. A builder will provide an indication for these items that generally will fit into the budget you have allocated from the outset.
A provisional sum however, is an allowance in the contract for the cost of foreseeable necessary work, include the supply of materials not fully described or detailed at the time that the contract commenced, for example joinery items or a service connection.
Whilst it is always preferable knowing what you are paying for, there are often circumstances where decisions have not yet been made so calculated estimations are the only way to ensure a clear cost.
How to select the right builder?
Finding the right builder is essential to ensuring your expectations are met upon completion. Like clients, no two builders are the same, so research is important so that you make an informed decision. Some key enquires may include:
• How professionally do they present both themselves and their business?
• Are they registered and do they have the relevant insurances?
• How long have they been in business?
• How extensive is their knowledge of construction practices?
• Do they have any references from past clients?
How do I determine if my builder is registered?
A builder in NSW must be registered. Before you engage a builder you can check the status of their registration by clicking on the link below:
https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/check-builder-or-tradesperson-licence
What professional memberships do you have?
J6 is a member of the NSW Housing Industry Association (HIA) and is committed to continual professional development and protecting industry integrity ensuring we conduct our work using best practice methodologies.
How much will the build cost?
When providing a quote for your building requirements, J6 will consider the following:
• Size of the project
• Complexity of the design
• Inclusions (basic, standard, luxury)
• Characteristics of the land / site (sloping, accessibility)
• Demolition (if required)
After reviewing all these factors a quotation can be provided.
Where do you build?
J6 has completed building works in nearly every pocket of Sydney. We pride ourselves on being the East Coast luxury home builders however are happy to consider any opportunity to create your custom home.
What is the duration of the build?
J6 will use their best endeavours to provide an approximate duration for your build, however with any building you should be aware that delays may occur due to unreasonable tight building time frames, extended periods of inclement weather, material shortage, scheduling of contractors and variations to name a few.
If a set time frame is agreed upon and the build looks like it will go over time, then it is required as per the signed contract, to be documented immediately and a new completion date agreed upon by the builder and the owner.
How will I be kept informed during the build?
Collaboration is key to J6’s success. We will ensure our project manager communicates with you regularly and will conduct site visits as and when required to discuss progress, milestones, variations etc… If at any stage you have any queries your project manager is available to answer these.