What’s so important about a building contract? The three things that must be in there by law.
When it comes to building your dream home, knowledge is power! Ensuring that your building contract includes these three essential clauses can set you up for success, giving you confidence and control throughout the process.
With these elements in place, you'll have the clarity you need to manage your build smoothly and avoid surprises.
Here’s what to look for in your building contract and how it can empower you to get the very best outcomes on your new home build.
1. A Clear Start Date (Or How It Will Be Determined)
One of the most empowering parts of your building contract is knowing exactly when construction will begin. Ideally, your contract will state a specific start date. If that’s not possible, it should explain how that date will be determined. This usually happens about 21 days after you and your builder have secured the necessary permits and paperwork.
Pro Tip:Take control of any uncertainties and check who’s responsible for the tasks that trigger your start date. If it’s your job to get certain documents, get them ready before you even sign the contract. If the builder is responsible, ask them to keep you updated on their progress. This way, you’ll be prepared and know exactly when your build will kick off!
2. Allowances for Delays
Every building contract needs to allow for potential delays, such as weather, public holidays, or weekends. Your contract should clearly outline how many days have been set aside for each type of delay. Understanding this gives you a solid sense of your timeline and helps you stay on top of the build.
Pro Tip #2: Keep a simple record of any delays, such as bad weather. This way, you can track how many of your delay days have been used and remain aware of any changes to your timeline. By staying informed, you'll feel more in control of your build’s progress and timeline.
3. A Clear Finish Date or Completion Timeline
Knowing when your new home will be finished is one of the most exciting parts! While the finish date can depend on the start date, your contract should at least include a clear timeline—a number of days within which the work will be completed. This gives you a reliable benchmark to track the project’s progress.
As soon as building work starts, ask your builder to confirm the projected finish date in writing. By staying informed and checking in regularly, you’ll be in a great position to ensure your home is completed on time!
Be Prepared and Confident Before You Sign!
Before signing your building contract, make sure it includes:
A clear start date or an outline of how it will be determined
Reasonable allowances for delays
A defined finish date or completion timeline
These details will give you peace of mind, clarity, and control throughout your build. When you’re confident in your contract, you can focus on the excitement of your new home knowing that everything is in place for a smooth and successful process!
If you want as set of eyes to review your contract and ensure it’s working in your favor, I’d love to help. Let’s make sure you’re set up for success—book a consultation with me today, and we’ll make sure your build is ready to run smoothly!
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Written by Annelyse, Building Contract Enthusiast, Project Manager, and founder of Build Together Project Management.
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