When choosing a renovation builder, you should consider their previous work, their efficiency, and feedback from prior customers. These factors will help you decide whether the builder is trustworthy and reliable.

Before signing any contracts, ask the renovation builder to come and inspect your property to ensure there are no major defects that may cause problems with the renovation. Ask them to give you a realistic quote, and then decide if their quote is realistic, within your budget, and comparable with the current market. At this point, it is also a good idea to check with your local housing association to ensure the renovation builder has the appropriate insurance policies and licenses.

You should also ask the builder about the job’s timeframe. A good renovations builder should be able to give you an estimated start and finish dates, and information about important stages throughout the process. These stages should keep you up-to-date about the job’s progress and any payments you need to make for ongoing inspections, supplies, and other costs.

When it comes to builders, Melbourne CBD & Inner Suburbs have had its fair share of shifty sorts who are more interested in showing up at the bank to cash your cheque than they are at showing up to your property to do the work.

There were always themes common to most of the dodgy builder stories; most homeowners failed to vet their builders properly, didn’t check their qualifications, or took the cheapest quote.

Here’s how to ensure the Melbourne CBD & Inner Suburbs builder you choose is one you know can get the job done and at a fair price.

• Ask friends and relatives to recommend a builder
• Ask the local hardware store
• Use a secure trusted local directory.