An article by the Master Builders Association
There’s an allure to working with what already exists. A home and site well known and loved by its owners is often one that can be best modified to suit changing needs. Like all worthwhile projects, there can be up and downs with renovating, but with the right approach, they can be managed smoothly. Older construction methodologies and materials can deliver unknowns during a renovation, which are sometimes only revealed once the build has started. Being flexible and prepared for any potential surprises is the best way to approach a build, as is knowing that designs may need to be tweaked as you go.
There’s an allure to working with what already exists. A home and site well known and loved by its owners is often one that can be best modified to suit changing needs. Like all worthwhile projects, there can be up and downs with renovating, but with the right approach, they can be managed smoothly. Older construction methodologies and materials can deliver unknowns during a renovation, which are sometimes only revealed once the build has started. Being flexible and prepared for any potential surprises is the best way to approach a build, as is knowing that designs may need to be tweaked as you go.
Where to start
Planning a renovation can take time, but whether you’re renovating a small space or a whole house, good planning is key. Before you talk to your builder or architect, gather ideas and get inspired. This will help them understand what you want, so they can help bring your vision to life. You can find a lot of great ideas on the Master Builders Pinterest boards and House of the Year website, which showcase the best renovations across a range of budgets.
Conversation Tips
For a successful renovation, it’s important to find the right builder for you.
- Speak with several builders to find one you feel comfortable with and can trust.
- Look for builders who have experience in renovations similar to yours and talk to their past client to ensure they have the technical expertise and knowledge to do the job right.
- Consider working with a builder who is backed by a trusted brand like Master Builders, who are known for building quality homes and buildings that last, and who also offer a building guarantee.
- Be upfront with your builder and discuss any potential issues and challenges that might arise, including price escalations and delays.
- Involve your project team, including your builder, architect, interior designer, and landscape designer (if you have them), early on to prevent miscommunication.
- Have clear discussions with everyone involved about how any issues or challenges will be managed, including agreed timeframes and inspection stages, and how any variations will be managed.
- It’s a good idea to talk with your builder about your expectations for workmanship and finishing.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) sets the benchmark for tolerance levels for building workmanship, this covers aesthetic issues rather than issues of non-compliance with the Building Code. So if you require a level of quality above the tolerance levels, it may mean additional time and costs, which should be outlined in your contract specifications.
Understand the fine print
Before you sign on the dotted line, we recommend having a lawyer experienced in building contracts review it first. If you choose a Master Builder, they have access to our standard building contract that provides fair and balanced risk allocation. It also includes a comprehensive payment schedule, so you can keep track of the money you are paying and ensures you’re only paying for work that has been done.
Protect yourself and your renovation
Only a Master Builder can offer you a Master Build 10-year Guarantee, which needs to be applied for and accepted. This is a type of warranty product that includes protection in case your builder’s business is no longer operational or is unable or unwilling to finish the job or address defects. It provides the best peace of mind that exists in the market.
Renovating your house can be a highly rewarding experience. With good communication and the right mindset, you can change your home to better suit your needs and enjoy the benefits for many years to come.
For more tips about managing successful renovation projects, visit masterbuilders.org.nz
