The inflation in the real estate sector is higher than the usual inflation rate. This motivates homeowners to get home extensions done rather than moving to a new property or going for knocking and rebuilding. Another trend is that most people choose to build themselves rather than hire a registered builder. The reason they cite is that this saves a lot of money, but for this, everything must go precisely to plan, and you must have sufficient experience in building. Another reason is that they will have complete control over the process and the design and build of the property.
But a question worth answering is whether it is a practical solution or not, and we have covered this in this blog post.
WHAT WILL DEFINE YOU AS A BUILDER?
If you are planning to become a DIY builder to build your home extensions or second-story extensions, you must acquire the following three qualities.
Using your own skills to build
Manage a team of tradespeople (sub-contractors) to work on the property
You must be a registered builder or at least applied for owner-builder registration with the building commission
There are some crucial facts to know regarding building construction, and they are essential regardless of whether you attempt DIY or hire a registered builder.
BUILDING WORK OVER $5000
Any construction process seeking investment over $5000 will require some obligations to fulfil.
First, you must use a registered builder, and secondly, you must also have a written domestic building contract. For any project worth over $12000, you must have a current certificate of domestic building insurance or the registered builder must produce this certificate.
A certificate of consent from the building practitioners’ board is also required for any project costing over $12000.
PLANS AND PERMITS
Regardless of how small or big the project is, some plans and permits will be required, and this is where a registered builder can be handy. He will ensure that all the plans and permits needed for home extensions and second storey extensions are arranged on time. This will include the following –
Local Laws
Mandatory Energy Rating Requirements
Foundation Data, Including Soil Tests, And Engineering
Excavation Costs, If Required
Site Survey Results From A Licensed Land Surveyor
MANAGING THE BUILDING TEAM
The most stressful thought of being a DIY builder for home extensions is managing the overall process and keeping the team united throughout the project. You will need several service providers, sub-contractors, tradespeople, and others to engage in construction. A registered builder can be beneficial in your home extension process as they are experienced in managing the entire team. Apart from this, the team also has additional expertise and skills to manage the team and keep it united throughout the process.
