Before you sign a building contract

Small details can become difficult discussions once the work is installed. Show where you want mirrors, towel rails, power points and light switches. Internal elevations are useful for kitchens, bathrooms, laundries and robes because they show the relationship between fittings.

For example, a mirror centred on the wall may not be centred above the vanity. A light switch can end up behind an open door. Resolve these details in the current drawings and selections rather than relying on a conversation with the salesperson months earlier.

Keep the signed plans, specifications, inclusions and agreed variations together. Check product names, model numbers and finishes before ordering. When a selection changes, make sure the corresponding drawing or schedule is updated and the builder acknowledges the change.

A change can affect more than the product price. Ask about labour, administration, ordering and timing before agreeing to it. Your legal adviser can explain the variation process and payment obligations in your particular contract.

Discuss inspection access before work begins. Set out how much notice is needed, who provides the site contact and how visits will be coordinated before work is concealed. The builder controls safe access to the site; our inspectors cannot give you permission to enter.

Use the construction-stage guide to plan likely inspection points. Confirm what each stage includes on your project: fixing, fit-off and lock-up do not always mean the same completed work in every programme.

Ask your adviser to explain the contract’s completion date, extension-of-time process, progress payments and any agreed treatment of delay. Avoid assuming the key collection date, practical completion and an occupancy approval are interchangeable.

Arrange the practical completion inspection with time to read the report and raise findings. Check the process and dates for notifying defects after handover. Inspectors’ observations do not decide your contractual payment rights.

After an important phone call or site discussion, send a short email recording the issue and what was agreed. Ask for acknowledgement and keep the reply with the relevant drawings, photographs and reports.

The ACT Government’s guide to hiring a builder explains contracts, variations and the roles involved. Have an appropriately qualified legal adviser review the agreement before you sign, particularly if you want special provisions about inspections, delays or defects.

If a concern has already developed into a dispute, see building dispute and legal reports for the information to prepare.