Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Signing a Con...

Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Signing a Contract

Building your dream home is one of life’s biggest milestones—but it can quickly become stressful if the builder relationship isn’t right from the start. Asking the right questions before signing your building contract is crucial to protecting your investment, ensuring transparency, and building...

iBuildNew Editorial TeamJuly 29, 20254 min read

1. Are You Fully Licensed and Insured in Victoria?

Before anything else, verify that your builder holds the appropriate licences and insurance in line with Victorian building laws. This includes:

A valid builder’s license (check through the VBA)
Domestic building insurance (formerly warranty insurance)

If they’re reluctant to provide documentation, that’s a serious red flag.

2. Can You Provide a Detailed Written Quote?

Ask for a full breakdown of costs including:

Materials and labour
Site works and soil testing
Permits and energy ratings
Inclusions and exclusions

Make sure to distinguish between fixed costs and provisional sums (estimates that can change). This prevents cost blowouts later.

3. What Is the Fixed Price, and What Could Cause It to Increase?

Even in "fixed-price" contracts, builders often include clauses that allow price changes based on:

Site conditions (e.g. rock, poor soil)
Council delays
Increases in material or labour costs

Ask your builder to clearly explain these clauses and if they can cap provisional sums.

4. How Long Will the Build Take, and How Are Delays Managed?

You should receive a realistic build timeline with major stages outlined:

Slab pour
Frame
Lock-up
Completion

Also ask: what happens if the builder experiences delays? Will they update you regularly? Is there a clause covering penalties or extensions?

5. Who Will Supervise the Build and How Will We Communicate?

Clear and regular communication prevents costly misunderstandings. Find out:

Who is your point of contact?
Will there be weekly updates or site meetings?
Will you have access to a build-tracking app?

The builder should provide a reliable communication structure from day one.

6. What Warranties and Guarantees Are Included?

Builders in Victoria must offer statutory warranties on:

Structural integrity (6 years)
Workmanship and materials (2 years)

In addition, ask:

How long do they guarantee workmanship?
How are post-build issues handled?
Will they provide a maintenance manual?

7. What Quality Control Measures Are in Place?

Does your builder conduct inspections at each stage? Are independent assessors involved? Quality assurance processes might include:

Supervisor sign-offs
Engineer or third-party inspections
Final walk-through with a checklist

Don’t be afraid to ask for examples of how they’ve handled quality issues in the past.

8. Do You Use Regular Subcontractors or Change Teams Often?

Subcontractor consistency often reflects build quality. Ask:

Do they use long-term, trusted trades?
Are subcontractors licensed and insured?
Who handles plumbing, electrical, tiling, etc.?

Established teams usually deliver better results.

9. How Are Variations Managed?

You might want to change a feature or add something mid-build. Ask about:

Their variation process
How prices are calculated
Whether variations affect timelines

Ensure any changes are documented in writing and signed by both parties.

10. Can I See Past Projects or Speak with Previous Clients?

A reputable builder should be happy to:

Show completed projects
Connect you with past clients
Share independent reviews

Seeing their work firsthand will help set realistic expectations.

Bonus Question: What Contract Template Do You Use?

Most reputable Victorian builders use standard HIA or VBA contracts. These are well-regarded for offering a balance of protection for both parties.Before signing, read your contract in full and consider getting independent legal advice—especially if the builder uses a custom template.

Final Tips Before You Sign

Never rush into signing—read everything.
Document all conversations and keep records.
Don’t pay more than 5% deposit for contracts over $20,000.
Get a lawyer or building consultant to review terms.

By asking these essential questions, you’re not just protecting your finances—you’re setting yourself up for a less stressful, more successful home-building experience.

iBuildNew Editorial Team

As the specialist voice of Australia’s largest new home building resource, the iBuildNew Editorial Team delivers deep-dive coverage into the house and land sector. From analysing new estate launches to highlighting the country’s leading home designs, we track the building journey to provide clarity for every buyer.