3 minute read
BUILD 2025: Your Building Team
ACT Renovations, Duffy
It can be tricky to know who is responsible for each part of your project. Here is a handy outline of who you can expect to work with throughout the process and what their role should be.
BUILDER
Your builder is the go-to person for managing and overseeing your new home construction or renovation. They will take care of all the work that needs building approvals, and will also coordinate all trades who will work on your home. Make sure your builder is licensed by the appropriate state authority to ensure they’re qualified for the job.
ARCHITECT
If you decide to hire an architect, building designer, or draftsperson, they will be in charge of creating the building plans and offering you helpful advice during the design of your home. You can hire them through your builder or on your own.
BUILDING CERTIFIER
A building certifier will make sure everything complies with building laws.
ELECTRICIAN
Your electrician will handle all the electrical work and must give you a certificate of electrical safety once they have finished, confirming that their work meets the necessary standards.
PLUMBER
In the ACT, plumbers must have a license. They need to submit specific notices to Access Canberra and set up inspections before starting any work. They also have to file certified final drainage and plumbing plans before getting a final inspection from Access Canberra.
BUILDING ASSESSOR
A building assessor will give you an energy efficiency assessment rating to ensure your home meets the required 7-star standard.
MAKE SURE YOUR BUILDER IS LICENSED BY THE APPROPRIATE STATE AUTHORITY TO ENSURE THEY’RE QUALIFIED FOR THE JOB.
The building process at-a-glance
Once you’ve settled on your design, received building approval and signed your contract, work can start on building your new home. Here’s a simple overview of what’s involved.
SITE PREPARATION
This involves clearing the land, preparing the foundation, and levelling and excavating if necessary. Accurate grading and proper drainage are essential.
FRAMING AND STRUCTURE
The foundations and slab are laid for your home, and the structural framework of the home is built, typically using timber and/or steel.
EXTERIOR OR ‘LOCK UP STAGE
This involves applying siding (brickwork, render, timber etc.), roofing, windows and doors to the point where the home can be ‘locked up’.
INTERIOR FIXTURES AND FITTINGS
This stage involves interior finishes like interior walls, painting, tiling, cabinetry and installing fixtures. Each step must adhere to the approved blueprints and building codes.
MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems are installed, ensuring proper functionality and safety throughout the home. This requires careful planning and adherence to electrical and plumbing codes.
PRACTICAL COMPLETION
The final stage involves inspections, when the building of your home is substantially complete and generally fit for purpose. Any defects will be picked up at this stage.
FINAL WALKTHROUGH AND ADJUSTMENTS
Homeowners conduct a final walkthrough to verify that the home meets their expectations and identify any remaining issues. Corrective actions should be taken to address any defects or discrepancies.
CLOSING AND OCCUPANCY
Once all inspections are completed and any necessary adjustments are made, the home is ready for closing and occupancy. This includes final payments, transferring ownership, and obtaining occupancy certificates.
