Frequently Asked Questions

Do we tender?

Generally, no. Let us explain why.

Tendering is a process where builders bid for work. For run of the mill projects, it may work, with price being a key point. We also are aware that some builders put in lowered prices and then choose to make up for this with multiple variations along the way if they are awarded the contract.

It is an old way of doing things and our approach is more modern.

We believe your project, the types of projects we build, requires a more refined response, one that takes into account the particulars, the realities and assists you with planning the design to ensure it includes all you desire.

Negotiated tender is one way we offer our cost planning service. We engage as the preferred builder and provide full costings. This service comes at a charge. We then either can engage in a building contract or if we find, for whatever reason, the fit just isn’t right, you now have a full bill of quantities and real time quotes from trades and suppliers you can use along your building journey.

What usual size and scope of build do you undertake?

Size and scope vary. We have built small guesthouses on grand properties and 600m2+ homes. The key factor we are looking for is that the project is special and is a match for the high level of building and service we provide.

See here for some of our previous builds.

Where do your get you workers from?

While some builders subcontract their crews, our core crew is in-house.

We work with a niche industry recruiter as well as receive applicants from word of mouth and referrals. We find the style of work we do attracts a certain calibre of carpenter and the culture of our business helps retain them.

Are they your employees?

Every one of our job sites has a dedicated Foreman who is not only skilled in building but able to deliver the exceptional client service we are known for.

Our core carpentry crews are employees, some have been with us for 5 years or more. We have also developed apprentices who are now carpenters.

How do you prevent subcontractors from ‘no shows’ or not completing works?

With our niche in special projects, we have developed strong relationships with our key subcontractors. We are long term collaborators with many and enjoy working together on high calibre projects. These subcontractors are in high demand so we are fortunate they prioritise our work and look forward to delivering excellent results as much as we do.

At times, clients have looked for cost savings and we might need to find a subcontractor who is able to do things at a lower price. In this case, high expectations may not be met and we have Master Builders subcontracts in place to ensure that the works will still need to be completed on time and on schedule.

What is the type of contract I can use?

We offer two types of contracts: a fixed price or construction management.

Our fixed price contract is provided by Master Builders and is appropriate to use for works under $2m.

For works above $2m or projects with extra logistical demands or super high end details, we recommend a Construction Management arrangement. We are happy to discuss the benefits with you or answer any questions you may have here.

How involved do I need to be?

The process of building is considered and by the time we are looking at breaking ground there may have been 6 months or more of design, cost planning and working out the details. A lot of time and energy from client, architect/designer and builder go into this pre-construction phase.

By the time site opens, we aim to deliver the best of our service which is to look after the building process and make the plans a reality.

At this point, clients are able to relax a little and not be involved on a daily basis.

When do I get to see the progress?

We offer two methods of structured communication where progress is discussed

(1) planned site meetings, fortnightly or monthly frequency

(2) an online client portal for communication and progress photos

Things do come up from time to time in building and in those cases, we will call all the decision makers in together.

You are able to contact your Foreman if you would like to view site or visit with family with friends.

How do I know it is quality work?

We hope our projects speak for themselves.

If not, so many of our business decisions are based around preserving and strengthening the quality of our work from the employees we hire to the subcontractors we engage.

Our operational team run systems and processes to ensure quality is being achieved at small and large stages of the works. For more information on our process, see here.