Browse Forums Owner Builder Forum 1 Mar 04, 2017 11:02 am Hi all, I've just joined. I am extending and renovating an old (approx 1950's) weatherboard farmhouse as an owner builder. Have my planning permit through, currently working on building permit. Have registered as an Owner Builder. My original plan was for my father (67) and I to do all the work ourselves (apart from plumbing electrical etc). However my father's health isn't so good and my mum has suggested I get quotes from builders. I've had a couple of quotes now but I'm wondering if I should still do it as an Owner Builder or refuse to do this and do it with the builder. I know the Building Authority, when I initially applied for owner builder registration, said not to do it if you were employing a builder as some builders will make you do it so they dont' have to cover you under their insurance. The Builders are registered builders but if they get me to do it as an owner builder just contracting them what does that mean in terms of guarantees and insurance etc? At this stage I'm thinking it will be quite a financial strain to get a builder to do it all anyway and I may have to just get them to do some parts and do the rest myself. I have previously done plastering (though I hate it), laying carpet and vinyl, tiling, installing windows and doors, painting etc. I just don't really understand the whole owner builder business if you are contracting to others and not actually doing it yourself. Lori Re: Extending as an Owner Builder in Victoria 2Mar 21, 2017 4:11 pm Hi Lori, using a registered builder, while yourself being an owner-builder is a great way to retain the flexibility to do what you can do yourself. Some owner builders like to take over after lock-up stage so the structural work is out of the way, but everyone is different. Other owner-builders just want the flexibility to source their own materials, which can be harder with a builder. It is true that some builders encourage owner-building to avoid the cost of insurance, but to clarify that point for you, it is very rare (except in SA where it appears to be strangely common). And where that does happen it only relates to Home Warranty insurance (HWI). As an owner-builder you won't need HWI, but you will still need construction insurance (including Public Liability), but it is not at all expensive, and isn't likely to affect your decision on whether you owner-build or not. Coverforce Allrisk Owner-Builder Insurance Experts http://allrisk.com.au/owner-builder-insurance-quote/referrer/HomeOne If your patio is going to be 35 sqm then that's going to need Council Approval. The fact that they previously approved your 25sqm patio will be irelevant 1 5511 Ask for some kickplate to be added and also for tradies to be requested to use lanyards on tools on that side of the building. Be respectful and have the discussion… 1 1698 |