Building a home is one of the most significant investments you'll make - and choosing the right builder is key to bringing your vision to life. Whether you're planning a custom home or a knockdown rebuild, asking the right questions early on can save you time, money, and stress.
At Como Projects, we believe informed decisions lead to better builds. Here are the essential questions every homeowner should ask before committing to a builder.
1. Are you a licensed builder?
It may seem obvious, but it's essential to confirm your builder is fully licensed. An unlicensed builder is not legally entitled to fees or compensation and may leave your home unfinished or non-compliant. You can easily check a builder’s license through the Access Canberra portal if you're building in the ACT.
2. Can you work with my chosen architect?
Your builder should be open and collaborative, working seamlessly with your architect. In fact, involving a builder early in the design process can help keep your project aligned with your budget.
If you haven't selected an architect yet, Como Projects offers a pre-build design consultation to help optimise both design and build quality. Our team works with you to suggest design adjustments that improve construction outcomes and reduce costs.
3. Do you provide Homeowners Warranty Insurance?
Before construction begins, your builder must issue a Certificate of Currency for Homeowners Warranty Insurance. This protects you financially if the builder becomes insolvent during or after construction.
4. What is your experience with knockdown rebuilds or custom homes?
Choose a builder who specialises in your type of build. At Como Projects, over 75% of our projects are knockdown rebuilds—we know the process inside and out and can manage it with minimal disruption to you.
5. What site investigations do you carry out before quoting?
To ensure your quote is realistic and thorough, your builder should conduct a range of assessments, including:
- Site and floor plan review
- Contour survey
- Preliminary engineering report
- Compliance checks
This upfront diligence avoids costly surprises down the track.
6. How long does it take to receive a quote?
Expect around four weeks from final design approval to receive a detailed, comprehensive quote. Prompt delivery of your quote is a good early indicator of reliability.
7. What is your contracted build time - and do you meet it?
While timelines vary based on design and site conditions, most new builds allow for 4–6 months of pre-construction and 6–12 months of build time. At Como Projects, we offer a move-in date guarantee and realistic timelines from day one, so you can plan with confidence.
8. How many projects does each site supervisor manage?
This is one of the most important questions. A site supervisor juggling too many builds won’t be able to give yours the attention it needs. At Como Projects, each supervisor manages only a limited number of builds to maintain exceptional quality and client focus.
9. Do you thermally wrap homes as standard?
Thermal wrapping improves energy efficiency, comfort, and the overall lifespan of your home. At Como, every home is wrapped in Enviroseal™ ProctorWrap, ensuring high-performance protection from the elements.
10. What are the benefits of Enviroseal™ Wall Wrap?
Enviroseal Wall Wrap:
- Enhances thermal performance
- Reduces air leakage
- Provides moisture protection
- Increases energy efficiency
These benefits contribute to a healthier, more sustainable home.
11. How extensive is your brick selection?
A wide brick range ensures greater creative flexibility. We recommend choosing a builder who partners with major suppliers like Austral Bricks or PGH Bricks, offering a diverse array of colours, textures, and finishes.
12. Do you build on sloping blocks?
Sloping blocks require additional expertise due to drainage, access, and structural complexities. Make sure your builder has proven experience with these sites. At Como Projects, we assess your block early and review council regulations to avoid complications.
13. Which parts of the contract aren’t fixed price?
Unexpected costs can blow your budget. Ask for clarity upfront about any variable costs. At Como, we fix nearly all costs except for rock removal, underground water issues, and traffic control - ensuring full transparency.
14. Can I make changes during the build?
Flexibility matters. This is your dream home - you should be part of the process. Como Projects welcomes collaboration and accommodates reasonable changes along the way, working with you to bring your vision to life.
15. What don’t you do?
Some builders don’t include elements like landscaping or pools. Knowing this in advance helps you plan for additional services. Como offers end-to-end project delivery so you can move into a fully finished home.
16. When do I sign the contract?
Once your quote is finalised, your builder should provide a fixed price contract, outlining all construction costs clearly. After signing and paying your deposit, you'll receive your Homeowners Warranty Insurance Certificate.
17. How will we communicate throughout the build?
Consistent communication is essential. At Como, you'll be assigned a dedicated project manager, your direct point of contact for the duration of your build. We keep you informed through regular updates, face-to-face meetings, and progress reports - no chasing required.
Build With Confidence
Choosing a builder is about more than price - it’s about trust, transparency, and expertise. At Como Projects, we’re here to support you through every stage of the journey, from first consultation to final handover.
Ready to start your building journey? Contact us today for a consultation.
