There are many stages in the construction of a house, but there are also many different types of contracts on the actual construction site. This phase of the work allows you to customise the rooms, and the good thing is that you don't have to order plumbing, electricity or even roofing materials from the same contractor.
Of course, if you want, you can contract a contractor who will provide everything you need. However, you can also contract separately with several contractors, specifying the construction solutions. Contracts are usually awarded according to the following principles:
- Turnkey contract: this is the most complex contract. The contractor undertakes to perform all the contracts for the construction of the house and to supply all the building materials necessary for its completion.
- Contract to carry out the building works: the contractor is responsible for the construction of the house, but carries out the internal works, such as the partition walls, separately.
- Contract to build the house in red: you are responsible for the entire construction work and for purchasing the materials. You should be aware that you set the price for building the house.
You can even split the contract into smaller parts and see where you can manage on your own. Specific subcontracts include:
- Pouring the foundation
- Installation of the roof
- Roofing the foundation
- Plastering, tiling, painting and pouring.
There is no general source where you can find a good contractor. You will therefore need to turn to different sources to get a thorough overview. You can contact co-workers, relatives, close people and friends to give you information that you can verify. A classic newspaper advertisement is also a great way to find contractors. And don't forget the internet. It's full of forums or classifieds sites where you can discover useful tips on building a house.
Choosing a contractor is very important. And even if the offer looks very good to you, you lose nothing by going through a vetting process.
That's why, once you've decided on a contractor, keep the following things in mind:
Make a written agreement. Make sure you have a contract. A lack of a physical agreement is the most common cause of house building disputes. A written agreement is in the best interest of both parties because it defines the scope and phases of the work.
Customer testimonials. It is alarming if the contractor has no record of previous work. Why? Because most contractors ask their clients to publicly recommend them.
But remember that testimonials can also be misleading, as contractors often don't display negative feedback. So ideally, ask the contractor to show you other construction projects they have done.
Basic information about the register of contractors. You need to make sure that the contract is included in this register, including advance payment and VAT. Being on this register is a clear sign that the contractor is playing by the rules and is a professional.
Credit information. Check the details of the house building loan (mortgage). Pay particular attention to each point of the contract and read it very carefully.