How to Compare Builders in Australia
The step-by-step guide to evaluating, comparing, and selecting the right builder for your project.
Define Your Scope Clearly
Before approaching any builder, have a clear scope of works prepared — ideally with architectural plans. Comparing quotes without a defined scope is like comparing apples to oranges. Builders will make different assumptions and you won't be comparing like for like.
Get at Least Three Quotes
Always obtain a minimum of three detailed quotes. This gives you a market reference, reveals outliers, and creates competitive tension between builders. Don't default to the cheapest — focus on what's included in each price.
Compare Inclusions, Not Just Price
A cheaper quote often means less is included. Build a comparison spreadsheet covering: PC allowances, included specifications, provisional sums, exclusions, and what happens when items cost more than the allowance.
Check Licences and Insurance
Verify the builder's licence on your state's licensing authority website. Confirm they hold current home warranty insurance (mandatory in most states for projects over $20,000) and public liability insurance.
Assess Experience and References
Ask for recent projects of similar type and scale. Contact past clients. Visit completed projects if possible. Look for builders who specialise in your project type — a knockdown-rebuild specialist is very different from a renovator.
Review the Contract Carefully
Never sign a building contract without independent legal review. Key items to check: payment schedule, PC allowances, variations clause, defects liability period, dispute resolution mechanism, and completion timeframe.