A majority of big building companies provide their building services based on display homes. Their process is quite easy as they have plans and a sorted building process. Often the the required permits are taken care of by the building company however each area has information available so you understand the process e.g. look at the planning and development process for Harrogate. You will come across lots of good builders in Harrogate and other parts of the UK who can help you in a big way in terms of building your new home. But there are certain things that you need to keep in your mind while choosing a builder. Have a look at some of them here:
Check out display homes
Display homes are available in a variety of models, sizes and prices. Therefore, you need to look around patiently in order to make sure that you get the home that suits your needs best. Make a note that the display home you are visiting may not be the standard model.
- If you decide to go for a replica of the display home you visited, your contract must include exact plans and specifications of the home
- If you are getting the plans customised, get the exact cost of building the home as displayed, as well as the cost with the changes included, so that you can determine if they are worth spending extra money. See that all the changes are specified in writing and not only included in plans
- If you agree to cheaper fittings and fixtures that you come across in a display home, make sure you know what exactly you are buying
- You must know that it can be expensive if you bring changes in the original plan and include optional extras once you have signed the contract
Get your own building team
Big building companies have a team of skilled professionals, including lawyers, surveyors, designers and tradespeople. You also have the option of hiring professionals from the industry in order to advise you independently and assist you during the building project.
You can even hire an independent building consultant, who can make sure that the plan fits your desired needs, as well as check the quality of work during the construction process. A promising consultant will also be able to provide the building lawyer with a technical understanding of the building project.
You can search for building consultants over the internet, in your local newspapers or even by consulting your friends, colleagues, neighbours, and the LABC etc. Check if they are qualified enough and have got good experience in the type of work you are looking for. Also, make sure to find out if they have insurance that will cover you for the type of work they are doing.
Understand pre-construction contracts
The builder must obtain a soil report and foundation data to design the footings and to provide you an estimate of the cost. They may ask you to sign a document to authorise this. It is strongly recommended that you get legal and technical advice before you sign.
If the document includes developing the design or drawing plans and specifications, due to copyright you may not be able to take advantages of these services if you go for a different builder. You also may not get a refund on the cost of developing these plans.
House and land packages
House and land packages normally include a minimum of two contracts, one to purchase the land and one to build the house. House and land packages can be very complex and it is advisable to get a building lawyer to review your building contract before you sign.
Building a house is a very long & complex procedure, and requires lots of efforts. Hope these points help you in choosing a builder.