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| 6 Jun 2013 Cost Plus Contracts
A cost plus contract is becoming a popular form of building contract in today’s busy building environment. Essentially it’s a contract where a builder, using its best endeavours, obtains materials and services at each stage of the building process, passing the actual costs on to the owner and adding an agreed margin to cover overheads […]
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| 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 […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Cracking Cornices and Plaster Cracks
Cracking cornices and plaster cracks are a common feature that often occur naturally in a new home. Ground movement and natural settling can occur with minor cracks appearing in walls or cornices, often several years after the house has been completed. Many homebuyers incorrectly believe that this type of cracking is the builders’ responsibility to […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Prefabricated Fencing
Prefabricated Fencing – New Innovation keeping with tradition When choosing a fence, builders and renovators need to consider the style of home they want to achieve and the purpose of the fence before being able to select the most suitable product on the market. Traditional fencing systems such as brick, timber or corrugated fences all […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Construction Software
In the construction industry, being a cutting edge company that embraces innovation and new technology can be the difference between being a true industry-leader and struggling to remain profitable. Different businesses require different systems. If your company reaches a point where you find your software systems and processes are holding you back from reaching your […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Financing a Renovation
The first thing to consider when you decide to renovate is exactly how you want to enhance your home. It seems obvious, but making sure you have a clearly defined vision from the start will minimise the risk of getting carried away and allow you to stick to a budget. Once you decide on what […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Building Inspections: Existing Homes
In general buyers should arrange the following inspections prior to purchasing an existing home: A building inspection: in order to check for structural problems. A pest inspection: in order to ensure the house is free of termites and pests. There are a number of precautionary steps that you can take to ensure that you are […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Bathroom Renovations
Always seek professional advice early on. Use a Master Builders member company. Professionals understand the process involved and by developing your bathroom in consultation with experts, you’re more likely to avoid potential problems. They will know what can be achieved given your available space and budget. They can also assist with product selection and provide […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Block Orientation
Build to last The direction each room faces within your home makes a huge difference to your comfort and your home’s running costs. Design your home around the points of a compass: North Maximise this space. The sun’s position in summer and winter means north facing rooms remain at a comfortable temperature all year – […]
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| 6 Jun 2013 Aged Residents and Housing
Designing and building housing for older people is becoming very important as the Australian population ages. Each year one in three every older Australians will suffer a fall, with around 5 to 10 per cent of these falls causing an injury which requires medical attention. Many of these falls around the home are preventable. Sensible […]