Browse Forums Building A New House 1 Jun 25, 2012 2:24 pm guys wanting to see if anyone can help, or has been in this position. basically went the basic facade $1500.00 option, paid for upgrades $1500.00 to render it etc. then as per developer guidelines, we needed to add a extra portico section, to create a upper level setback etc..charged 2000.00 extra for it etc.... then was the developer guidelines, like extended eaves etc, 6500.00 etc... anyway, we were happy to pay all the extra costs and our builder submitted for DA, it was rejected twice. after many dramas etc, our builder and the developer and us managed to change the design to meet the requirements. It meant that we had to change the extra portico to a little crappy timber pergola, and make the already included front portico one side to a steel post not brick. anyway accepting this the builder resubmitted plans and looks like all ok, but here is the catch.. I receive a variation in the way of nearly $5000.00 for the changes!!!!, even though the materials and construction should be pretty much less or on par with what was previously paid and been charged extra for. I do not agree to these charges. so where does it leave us? and has anyone been in this position before. Re: Rejecting/disputing a variation...not happy 3Jun 25, 2012 2:50 pm deb17 Sounds wrong to me. How could it b so much? Didn't the builder know the developers guidelines prior u choosing those options. Thats the whole thing......so im not going crazy... you would have thought so they have build over 50 homes in the estate. they have dont nothing but blame the developer through the whole process, but the developer tells me pretty much every home our builder trys to build there they always have massive drama's Ive had to get so involved in the admin and communication through this, as the builder lacked any sort of understanding when it came to the guidelines.... So, im wondering what will happen if our builder stays firm, where do i stand in pulling out of the contract? Re: Rejecting/disputing a variation...not happy 4Jun 25, 2012 3:16 pm We had guidelines in our estate. Different ones in every new area in the estate. Our builder new every covenent for every area. I think u would b able to get out of the contract. The builder is at fault as far as I can c. Has he explained what is costing five grand? He cant deny he never knew the guidelines, all the builders know these things. They normally have them on their computers in the sales office ect.... Re: Rejecting/disputing a variation...not happy 6Jun 25, 2012 3:31 pm yes I have notified them this morning that I do not accept the variation, and to justify and provide me a full breakdown of the costs including all credits back for previous upgraded charges, and all "in lieu" costs etc.... waiting to hear back Re: Rejecting/disputing a variation...not happy 9Jun 25, 2012 11:03 pm Builder(if he is in charge of the design) is supposed to know all the restrictions and allow for them (that is the art of the design). If a variation has not been agreed beforehand, builder is required to charge a reasonable price (the onus of proof is on the builder) In this situation I am not even convinced there is a valid variation claim You should get opinion from Consumer Affairs or hire a private building consultant. Foremost Building Expert in Australia,assisting with building problems/disputes, building stage inspections,pre-contract review advice for peace of mind 200 blogs http://www.buildingexpert.net.au/blog I work with owner, he/she is my man on the ground and I instruct them when to visit the site and take photos and I have other tools in the bag. 4 9644 The irony. I'm starting to wonder if this a Bimguys second account. 84 29297 Are you saying that these consultants are involved at key-points of the building, and perform site inspects at the stages, or only after building is completed to point… 4 8993 |