Building an extension is no easy feat. After all, this project needs time and money investments. Due to the things at stake here, it is important to work with the right builder.
Your builder should be able to give you a good idea of what will happen during the process and how long it will take them to finish it.
But you don’t need to just wait for your builder to tell you this or that. You also need to be proactive, and by that, it means you have to ask questions. Here are a few things you need to ask your builder during a home extension project:
Can you give me a timeline for the build schedule?
Just the start and completion dates won’t be enough here. Extensions involve several steps, and each step takes time. The team will knock out a wall or two, build the foundation, add walls, install the roof, and proceed with the interior and exterior cladding.
Fixtures and wiring will then be handled by an electrician and a plumber may also be called in to help. A reliable builder will be more than happy to outline the entire schedule for you so you will already know in advance what will be done and when.
Are there expected cost overruns or potential problems?
It’s common for construction companies to have building contracts that include provisions for unexpected cost overruns and variations, some of which can be time-consuming and costly. Be sure you and your builder take time to review your contract. Grab this opportunity to ask for detailed explanations for additional costs or possible issues down the line. A trustworthy builder will want you to stay in the know and help you understand why they can’t always justify potential cost overruns ahead of time.
How experienced are you with home extensions?
Yes, it makes perfect sense to assure yourself that you will be working with a builder with enough experience in home extensions and general renovations. Builders who specialise in new home builds may or may not be a good option for these projects. So be sure to check. Again, good builders will readily answer your questions.
They should let you know how many years they have been building in your local area. They should also show proof of insurance and license and provide references. Trusted builders also belong to a relevant trade association.
When a builder has already made a name in your community, it’s often a good indication that they are respected there. But if the builder is a newcomer, you might want to ask about their previous location. You wouldn’t want to work with a builder who got a bad rap in another area and moved to your neighbourhood hoping to start anew.
How will we stay in touch?
You and your builder must stay in touch during the entire extension project. Since, likely, you won’t be around as they do their job, you need to know that you can contact the project manager even after hours.
You might also want to schedule personal meetings every week to go over the finished parts and what still needs to be done. Remember that it’s your project so you have to feel like you are part of it every step of the way.
What can I expect after the completion of the project?
Now, you might think this question sounds a bit silly, but it’s one of those questions you do need to ask no matter what. You might need additional work to ensure that your extension blends well with the rest of your home. Or maybe your landscaping might need some adjustments to make room for the new space.
Whatever it is, your builder must be able to tell you all the inclusions and exclusions of your contract. They should also provide documentation after the project that indicates every variation to the original contract together with the details of the cost of each one.
Setting expectations for the completion of the project will make it easier for you to prepare for any work necessary and the possible costs of this work once the builders pack their things and leave your property.
How will you protect my property during the process?
An extension is meant to make your home better, not damage it. For this reason, your builders should also assure you that they will take the necessary measures to protect your property at all costs.
They should inform you how to keep your home dust-free and how they will safeguard your landscaping furnishings and other belongings. If you need to store some furniture, they will also let you know in advance.
As they always say, when in doubt, ask. Raise these questions to your builder and have a seamless and smooth extension project!
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