1. Maintain effective communication
Regular check-ins with your principal contractor (builder) help you stay informed about progress, upcoming decisions and potential issues.
If an issue does arise, speak up about it straight away—don’t let it linger.
It’s also important to realise that, while you may hire a builder to oversee the project, they may not carry out all the work themselves. Instead, they often rely on subcontractors (or 'subbies')—specialist tradespeople who handle different aspects of the job, such as plumbing, electrical work and carpentry.
If the builder has engaged subcontractors, it’s best practice to communicate through the builder, as they are responsible for coordinating and supervising their work. This ensures clear messaging and avoids confusion.
The builder is also responsible for any defective work undertaken by the subcontractor. Learn more about their supervision and quality control responsibilities.
2. Get everything in writing (variations)
Home owners who are going through a dispute tell us they wish they had documented changes, issues or decisions rather than assuming the builder would remember a conversation.
Changes (variations), issues or decisions can involve materials, timelines, project scope or quality of work.
To avoid misunderstandings, it's important to follow up any discussions with an email summarising what was agreed or changed. This written record helps ensure both parties are clear and reduces the risk of confusion.
If there are any changes to the items outlined in your contract, the contractor must inform you in writing before starting the variation work. Learn more about variations on our contracts and payments page.
3. Set clear expectations from the start
Discuss timelines, key milestones and site access upfront. This helps manage expectations and reduces misunderstandings as the project progresses.
If you do run into problems, here are some tips on how to prevent disputes or handle them as they arise.
4. Be mindful of payment terms (progress payments)
Stick to agreed payment schedules that align with project milestones (these are specified in your contract). Avoid making large upfront payments to ensure work is completed to standard before funds are released. Learn more about progress payments on our contracts and payments page.
5. Undertake regular building inspections
There are many checks and balances involved in building work, including various milestones to reach before progressing from one stage to the next.
You should carry out regular onsite inspections with your contractor to ensure work meets the approved plans and specifications set out in the contract and is of the expected standard. Ensure the specific requirements detailed in your contract for quality and finish (e.g. type of paint and number of coats) are met.
If you’re not confident carrying out the inspections yourself, it may be useful to engage a private building consultant to monitor the job on your behalf and raise any concerns.
NOTE: The use of non-conforming building products (NCBP) in buildings puts lives and property at risk. Learn how to minimise the risk of NCBPs in your home by reading our NCBP guide for home owners (PDF, 42KB).
Next: Finalising the work
This includes undertaking final inspections, making final payments and scheduling handover.
