We all want to stay in control of our renovation budget, and a fixed price building contract allows you to do just that.

We chatted to the experts from Cape Cod Australia on what a fixed price building contract is, and why it really matters…

Your architect or builder will likely give you a “ballpark” estimated building cost to renovate your home. While this is generally a good starting point to determine if you can afford the build, you really want to lock these costs down before you agree terms with your Builder.

In addition to the build costs, the type of materials you choose will affect your budget. Bathrooms and kitchens with high-end details will be significantly more expensive than bedrooms or sunrooms with more basic finishes.

DOWNLOAD RENOVATING MUMS EPIC BUDGET SPREADSHEET HERE

Obtain a fixed price quotation

Fixed price really matters and gives you peace of mind. Insist on a detailed, fixed price quotation from each builder that you approach to do the work. It allows you to stay in control of your budget and must specify everything the builder will take responsibility for.

Read the quotation document carefully – if it isn’t listed, then it’s not likely to be included.

Remember to check;

    • Internal painting
    • Pest inspection
    • Council damage deposit
    • Construction Certificate
    • Final inspection fees
    • Asbestos removal 
    • Clean up
    • Occupation Certificate

Insist that the builder be specific – for example include window frame colours as non-standard colours are dearer!

Understand that some builders charge a small fee to produce a detailed fixed-price quotation due to the time involved; consider this is money well spent given the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your budget cost will not blow out.

Prime Cost allowances are typically included in a Quotation for items you will select yourself during construction, such as bathroom hardware. If you select an item more expensive than the allowance, you will be required to pay the balance. If, on the other hand, you select one that is cheaper than the allowance then you should receive a credit for the difference. For a meaningful price comparison between quotations, make sure you include the Prime Cost allowance.

Provisional Sums are allowances the builder has included for works that could not be costed because the scope of the work could not be determined, and may not be clear until demolition works are done. It is a “best guess” by the builder and you will typically be required to pay any amount over the allowance stated (or receive a credit if the actual cost is less than the allowance). If Provisional Sums vary immensely between quotes, ask the builder why this is the case.

Summary

Unless you have an unlimited budget, know what you are going to pay before you sign a building contract. A good builder will be able to provide you with a fixed-price contract, the only adjustments being for PC items.

Thank you Cape Cod Australia!

If you would like more information on any of the above or would like to discuss your renovation the team at Cape Cod Australia, then please call (02) 9849 4444 or check out their listing here.

For more goodness and advice on project management check out our articles here OR get social with our amazing FB community

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