-
| 6 Jun 2013 Unavailable Products
Sometimes building materials and products are specified by an owner, but become unavailable for reasons such as strikes, shipping delays, high demand etc. This presents the owner and the builder with a dilemma which must be worked through carefully. If these circumstances arise most building contracts provide that the builder must notify the client and […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Waste Management Contractors
Most of the contractors who specialise in recycling construction and demolition materials in Western Australia will negotiate removal logistics and prices for materials with you so that solutions are tailored to your project. Enquire about different costs for any separated waste. Ensure that at all times collectors implement litter management controls like covering their loads […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Water Meter Theft
Theft of water meters has been a problem on some Perth housing sites. Some sources suggests that the number of thefts has more than doubled in recent years to around 700 incidents per annum. At $200 per meter, this adds up to $140,000 per annum. Whether these meters are stolen for scrap metal or other […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Sheds and Patios
There are many contractors who earn their livelihood building small sheds, pergolas, patios etc and perform quite well. One area that you should carefully note is that under the Builders’ Registration Act any project valued at over $20k requires the services of a registered builder. Handypersons who advertise in community newspapers are therefore restricted in […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Skylights – Location of Skylights
The skylight should be located on the roof in such a manner that it is clear of overhanging trees and depending on aspect, is configured to meet lighting requirements of the room. They should also be located clear of obstructions including hips, valleys, air conditioning, vent pipes, solar water service etc. As skylights do not […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Site Works and Contracts
Site costs can be a difficult element of a building contract. In most situations, builders will not specify an exact amount for site works, but will nominate a “provisional sum” or best estimate which may be adjusted up or down depending on work actually required. Under the Home Building Contracts Act a builder cannot just […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Steel – Corrosion Protection
Hot dip galvanizing is a coating for steel made from an alloy of zinc and iron. Galvanizing is a once-only process – no substrate preparation and multiple coating is required. It offers total coverage – all exposed steelwork is coated both internally and externally. Galvanized coatings protect steel even at its most vulnerable areas. It […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Swimming Pool Construction
Swimming pools are extremely popular and come within the definition of “home building work” in the Home Building Contracts Act (1991). This legislation covers issues such as maximum deposit payable (6½ per cent of contract value), progress claim payments and so on. There are several construction issues to consider. When a swimming pool is constructed […]
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Stamp Duty
Stamp duty generally applies to the purchase of existing homes and land in WA. First home owner exemptions are available. For more information visit the Department of Treasury and Finance.
-
| 6 Jun 2013 Smoke Alarms
Smoke Alarms – Are they all the same? Hard-wired smoke alarms (installed by a licensed electrical contractor to mains power) are compulsory in all new homes and new leases for rental properties since October 2009. They are required to be installed on the sale of an existing home if not already provided. They are a […]