Things to Consider Before Building a New Home in Auckland
Have you reached a point where you are ready to launch a new home build? This is a pivotal moment! It’s a big deal to have made it here, and an exciting process is about to unfold.
While this is an exciting time, it can also be a bit fraught if you don’t consider all the important points that must be in place before starting a new home project. The whole process may feel a bit mysterious if you have never worked with an architect or a construction team before. There could be a lot of uncertainty surrounding the steps needed to secure your dream home.
We have put together some information to help you get to that day when the key turns in the lock for the first time. This will help you better understand some things that must be considered before building a new home in Auckland.
Move forward confidently with more knowledge about consultation, development, approvals, contracts, and other vital points.
The Vital Ingredient
The new home build process is fairly complex, and the vital ingredient that will spell the difference between success and failure is the construction team. Straight out of the gate, it’s essential to look for a team that is a member of the Master Builders Association. This will allow you to relax somewhat in terms of due diligence. Check references to ensure that the builders you have chosen are disciplined, will arrive on site according to schedule and put in a full day’s work. The builder should be running tight project management processes so that you can relax and enjoy the ride.
The Process
So, what does the process look like from the first meeting with a builder until you get access to your completed new home build? What needs to be prepared before sitting down with them? A good approach is to take collected ideas, cuttings, bookmarks, and Pinterest images and distil everything into realistic ideas. These should be divided into negotiables and non-negotiables. Before talking to the experts, this approach will help you clarify what is important.
It’s always good to have some general steps to refer to, so we have put together a five-step process below to help you see how things might unfold within the build process.
Initial Consultation
If you are dealing with a competent, accredited building company with relevant experience and proper systems in place, it will be apparent from the first meeting that they are the right team. Expect them to listen closely to all ideas and requirements, and get ready to share your wishlist for unique elements to include in the new build within the allotted budget. Assurances should be made that all the council paperwork will be handled, and all parties should leave that first meeting feeling good about moving forward.
Creating the Design
If you choose the right builder, they will have established relationships with architects and designers who can take what was hashed out in the initial meeting to create a draft of the plans. The first draft should incorporate non-negotiables for the layout, and the builder will use this plan to work up preliminary pricing for the project. This development stage will produce basic renders, elevations and a floor plan, allowing the builder to begin pinpointing a timeline for the build.
Building Consent
After provisional pricing has been drawn up, sub-trades have been identified and costed, and the architect has written up a specification budget. The Building Consent process will be taken care of. This involves submission to the local BCA (Building Consent Authority), where fees are paid and various documents are presented. The BCA must see that the plans align with the Building Code, the Building Act, and the Resource Management Act.
Contract Pricing
Once the consents have been approved, the formal pricing and contract stage can begin. This contract will include a more precise costing for all the work required and accurate timelines for construction, payments and details of dispute processes. There will also be a section in the contract around the defect period. This lays out the 12-month obligation period within which your builder will have to return to remedy any issues raised in writing, which both parties agree to be their responsibility.
Work Begins
After the contracts are signed and the deposit has been paid, your new home build will begin at a scheduled date and time. Throughout the building process, the builder should be supplying detailed updates. This is especially relevant if alterations are required, as this can involve changes in pricing, and you must be informed so you can sign off on any extra costs.
The Right New Build Team in Auckland
A lot hinges on selecting the right construction team for a new home build, and it’s important to be certain that your builder is a qualified, reliable Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) with the right experience to deliver your dream home project on time and within budget.
Call Harrison Building Company
Harrison Building Company works with the best available materials as part of our commitment to the highest quality service. We turn new home visions into reality with expert craftsmanship, and we keep you informed with clear communication and streamlined processes every step of the way.
Ready to embark on this exciting journey with a qualified, accredited and experienced team? We are here to ensure the process is hassle-free and enjoyable. Get in touch now to chat about your project