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  1. Security at Home | 6 Jun 2013

    Building Sites and Theft

    Under most building contracts, the builder controls the site until practical completion. During the construction period a builder is usually responsible for theft, vandalism or other damage that occurs on the site. A builder may be able to claim on its insurance policy or may absorb the cost, depending on the amount involved. If your […]

  1. Costs & Purchasing | 6 Jun 2013

    Construction Costs

    Construction costs have risen strongly in recent years and it is important that your building is accurately valued at replacement cost for insurance purposes. If you have not reviewed the “sum insured” on your home recently, then you should do so. To give you a general guide as to recent trends in building costs, you can […]

  1. Contractual | 6 Jun 2013

    Construction Starting Date

    Defining the length of a construction period is not such a simple matter as it might appear. It is critical that you read your building contract carefully as the construction period probably does not commence from the date of contract signing. In order to determine the construction period, you need to make sure that you […]

  1. Building Code & Approvals | 6 Jun 2013

    Defects Liability

    Under many building contracts, you have a contractual right to have defects addressed. The contractual rights can be exercised by the property owner, but not usually by a third party. There are general entitlements under the Building Services (Complaint Resolution and Administration) Act 2011 that allows a person to make a complaint about defective building work. […]

  1. Costs & Purchasing | 6 Jun 2013

    Earthworks

    Risk of Owner Earthworks   Some home owners take on the task of organizing the earthworks and their certification themselves, rather than the builder charging for the responsibility. The aim of this is often to reduce building costs, removing these works from the contract with the builder.   This in theory sounds fine, until you […]

  1. Design & Planning | 6 Jun 2013

    Tips: First Home Buyer

    First home buyer – tips Buying a first home can be a daunting experience. To make this process enjoyable, think about the following tips:   1.     Read the contract carefully Make sure that you understand all the terms and conditions. If not, ask!! 2.     Allow extra time for delays Despite the best intentions projects can run […]