Preliminaries (or 'prelims') provide a description of a project that allows the builder to assess the work required to formulate a scope and or a cost analysis.

Depending on what stage the client is at, some of the preliminary work undertaken by Knights CBI Pty Ltd together with their team and associates includes:

Detailed and Contour survey

Identification Survey

Feasibility study

Soil or geotechnical report

Engaging of designer/architect to draw up a concept and subsequently detailed design

Engaging of an Engineer to draw up an Engineering designTown planning advice

Other specialist consultant report

Locating existing infrastructure within the site

Cost analysis/Quotations

A client in the very early stage of renovations/extensions/new builds/raise and build/land purchasing phase, or have yet to engage a designer/architect, may require us to perform all tasks in the list. If the client has already got these documents in order, Knights CBI Pty Ltd may be required to review the documents and produce a Quotation.

We get asked that a lot. How much a square meter? How much is the Estimate cost?

The reality is, for your home project, there is no set rate. That’s because no two projects are ever the same, no site conditions are the same, and no clients are the same.

A square meterage rate can be useful at the outset when formulating a starting budget. If the client has X amount of budget, then the size of the building is approximately that divided by the rate. This rate needs to be verified by the builder by doing a proper quote. More often the rate applied at the beginning of the design process is different to the ultimate cost.

In theory, is that there will be a $ figure that can be multiplied by m2 to give a price. It’s a vague question so only a vague answer can cover it, $2500-$5500. We can narrow that range down fairly quickly with a few questions, like “would you prefer highest or lowset? Are your inclusions High/Mekium or Low?” etc. Also, when you increase ceilings to 2.7m that significantly increases the external wall area. Obviously no builder can quote a m2 without knowing what the plan looks like, but they do! So its not a recommended way to go. There will be a lot of ‘grey areas’.

A proper quote requires the builder to fully understand the plan, the scope of work, site condition, and time constraint. Like building lego pieces, each component is priced accordingly before assembled to produce the final figure.

In order for a quote to be meaningful, it has to be accurate, contain clear and detailed information for both parties. An accurate quote takes a significant amount of time and money to prepare as each project is different in scope and site conditions.

It is easy to get a free quote, but those builders will not want to spend the time or effort. They can apply a square meterage rate or low ball the quote and make up their margin by lowering standard or adding extras during the build.

To provide you with this accurate and detailed quote, we spend a number of days to work out the volumes of materials, product and labour required and at times this requires separate individual quotes from our experienced sub-contractors to provide an accurate estimate.

In general, free quotes from a builder are not necessarily better than paid quotes. The quality and accuracy of a quote depend on many factors, such as the builder’s expertise, experience, and attention to detail, as well as the complexity of the project and the accuracy of the information provided by the client.

Here are some potential downsides of relying solely on free quotes from a builder:

Limited scope:

Builders may provide limited information and scope of work in a free quote, in order to keep their costs down. This can result in inaccurate or incomplete information about the project, which can lead to misunderstandings and cost overruns later on.

Lack of detail:

Builders may not include all the necessary details in a free quote, such as specific materials,timelines, or contingencies for unexpected issues. This can lead to surprises and additional costs during the construction phase.

Limited support:

Builders may provide limited support or guidance during the free quote process, as they may not have the time or resources to fully understand the client’s needs and preferences.

Lower quality:

Free quotes may be of lower quality than paid quotes, as builders may not be willing or able to invest the necessary time and resources to produce a more accurate and detailed estimate.

As our quoting process is so involved, we require a fee which will be presented to you during our Preliminary Agreement/Letter of Engagement stage.Please note the fee is deducted if you sign a building contract with us!

Too often the owner engages the lowest cost builder because it is hard to understand the quote. What sounds like a good deal in the beginning can end up more costly or project just fails to achieve the desired outcome.

In contrast, paid quotes from a builder can provide several benefits, including:

Greater accuracy:

Builders may be willing to invest more time and resources in a paid quote, which can result in amore accurate and detailed estimate.

Better support:

Builders may provide better support and guidance during the paid quote process, as they may be more invested in the project and more willing to work with the client to understand their needs and preferences.

More detailed scope:

Paid quotes may include a more detailed scope of work, which can help to prevent misunderstandings and cost overruns later on.

Higher quality:

Paid quotes may be of higher quality than free quotes, as builders may be willing to invest more time and resources in producing a more accurate and detailed estimate.

In summary, free quotes from a builder are not necessarily better than paid quotes. While free quotes can be a useful starting point, paid quotes can provide greater accuracy, support, and detail, which can be invaluable in ensuring a successful residential construction project.

If we are provided with accurate and detailed documentation, the quote produced will be precise. For a typical project, 4 week turn around can be expected.

On the other hand, if the document is lacking, the quoting process can be done in a couple of days. This is often the case if the client is seeking an estimate during the design process. A basic concept drawing can be used provided that the client understands accuracy will be poor.

Ideally, a detailed set of architectural drawings, engineering design, soil test report, schedule of finishes, and fitting will be a basic minimum requirement.

How much do we charge for a quote?

The fee ranges depending on the complexity and size of the job and will be determined in our Preliminary Agreement/Letter of Engagement stage and can range from $500 to $5000+ depending on the complexity and size of the job.

The fee ranges depending on the complexity and size of the job and will be determined in our Preliminary Agreement/Letter of Engagement stage and can range from $500 to $5000+ depending on the complexity and size of the job.

There are several common reasons why people may be hesitant to hire a builder for a residential construction project and the most common being:

Cost concerns:

One of the most common reasons people may be hesitant to hire a builder is because of cost concerns. They may worry that hiring a builder will be too expensive and that they will not be able toafford the project.

Lack of trust:

Some people may be hesitant to hire a builder because they do not trust them. They may have had a negative experience in the past or have heard stories of builders who have taken advantage of their clients.

DIY mentality:

Some people may be tempted to take on a construction project themselves, either because they believe they can save money or because they enjoy the challenge of DIY. However, DIY projects can often end up costing more in the long run and may not meet the necessary standards for safety and quality.

Time constraints:

Some people may be hesitant to hire a builder because they are worried about how long the project will take. They may need the project to be completed quickly and worry that a builder will not be able to meet their timelines.

Difficulty in finding the right builder:

Finally, some people may be hesitant to hire a builder simply because it can be difficult to find the right one. They may not know where to start, or they may struggle to find a builder who they feel comfortable working with and who has the necessary expertise and experience for their project.

In summary, cost concerns, lack of trust, DIY mentality, time constraints, and difficulty in finding the right builder are all common reasons why people may be hesitant to hire a builder for a residentialconstruction project.

The main purpose of a BoQ is to itemise and define a project.

To make the quote/contract as accurate as possible, you need to define what exactly is going to be included down to details such as what light bulb you are going to use. Sometimes, that is not possible at the time of quoting or contracting. There are two common terms used to allow for such variables.

Prime Cost Item (PC):

Is an allowance made in a tender or contract for the supply and delivery only of an item or items of material (e.g. taps, baths, light fittings etc.) that have not been selected at the time of tender or before the contract is signed or for which the Contractor was not able to provide a fixed price on entering the contract.

The Proprietor/Owner would normally make the final selection of the item, which is subject to a PC allowance and payment of the same will be made accordingly.

Provisional Sum (PS):

Is an allowance made in a tender or contract for particular work which could not be finalised before tendering or signing a contract and which includes the total cost of the supply and installation (e.g. joinery, landscaping, air conditioning, rock removal).

Where Prime Cost Items (PC’s) and Provisional Sum (PS) allowances have to be shown in a tender or contract document, the amount shown should be inclusive of GST. e.g

.• Tile allowance PC $35/m2 (inclusive of GST)

• Landscaping Provisional Sum $10,000 (inclusive of GST)

Unlike a variation, PC and PS are adjustments to a contract. If you want a water tight contract, it is better to have as little PC and PS as possible, making the builder carry all the risk of supplying the items.

If you want to share some of that risk, having an agreed PS or PC can work in your favour. A good example is site cut where it is difficult to work out how much soil will be excavate and carting off the excess spoil due to dump location, traffic conditions of the day.

This example shows agreed PS allowance of $10,000 (GST inc) and the total cost to cut the site in 3 different scenarios: Work is done less than the allowance at $8000, work is done as per allowance $10,000 and work is done for more than the allowance $12,000.

A survey which is required for the purpose of identifying existing buildings and improvements on a parcel of land is referred to as an Identification Survey or just Ident. It may only be undertaken by a Registered Surveyor.

It is always recommended to engage a Surveyor for an Ident survey when you are purchasing a property. Your solicitor will normally obtain an Ident report as a matter of course. He does so to protect you against any problems which can only be detected by a Surveyor. The Vendor Disclosure Legislation requires obligatory warranties and other statutory information from a vendor of the property. The Ident report can supply other required information and speed up the sale.

Through your Ident Survey you can be sure that you are not buying any problems that may make the property difficult to sell in the future or create anxiety with neighbours or public authorities before you even move in. More importantly, you are sure that you are buying the property that you have been shown and whether or not the property has any defects which may devalue it.

A Surveyor measures the site involved to determine the location of buildings on or adjacent to the land and any fences present. He will check for the existence of Easements (for drainage, etc.), Covenants and Restrictions on land use, and whether or not the subject land complies with the terms of these conditions. The Surveyor pays special attention to any encroachments by or upon the land or upon any Easements. In the instance of a residence the Surveyor will report on the distances of the walls or eaves and gutters from the side boundary of the land.

Detail surveys are a basic prerequisite for building and land development. In most cases, the purpose of detail surveys is to indicate features on, and adjacent to, a property.

There are a number of site features and levels required by architects and planners. A topographic survey is a vital component of a successful development application for any development of your land.

Features of general detail surveys include:

Levels & contours related to Australian Height Datum (AHD)

Tie into cadastral reference marks & plot approx boundary on plan

Field survey of site detail & featuresField location of visible services

Spot levels & contours over site

Detail of significant trees on site over 0.2 diameter trunk

Note of retaining walls, changes of grade etc onto adjoining sites

Location of existing and adjoining houses/structures and floor and apex levels

Pickup of road & kerb details at site to crown

Place site level datum

Dial before you dig searches

Projects involving excavation will require an assessment to find out what services are underground around your property.

Common searches include:

Telecommunication location

Gas lines location

Sewer main and water supply lines

Storm water main

Underground electricity supply

You can get advice if there are problems connecting your house to the mains.

Common problems can be:

Unavailability connection to the sewer main or sewer main,

Man hole located on your block

Unavailability of storm water main for legal point of discharge

Town planning and overlay constraint

Part of the preliminary searches will involve extracting information fromcouncil regarding your property. Most of these searches are done throughpublicly available data. Our team and associates can help you make sense ofthe search result.

We pay attention to these common constraints:

Zoning of your property

If the old house is protected if you are seeking to knockdown and rebuild

If the property is affected by flood, or is in the overland flow path

If there are protected vegetation

Heritage listing

Bush fire zoning

Indicative contour of the site

The result will determine if we need to call on other specialist consultants such as a town planner, or hydraulic engineers.(This service can only be offered for properties within Brisbane City Council)

The types of soil usually present under the top soil in land zoned for residential building can be split into two approximate groups – granular and clay. Quite often, the foundation soil is a mixture of both types. The general problems associated with soils having granular contents are usually caused by erosion. Clay soils are subject to saturation and swell/shrink problems.

Soil classification for a given area can be obtained by getting a geotechnical report (or soil test report). As most building suffering movement problems are founded on clay soils, there is an emphasis on classification of soils according to the amount of swell and shrinkage they experience with variation of water content. The table below is Table 2.1 from AS 2870, the Residential Slab and Footing Code.

Priced Service Solutions

**Note – prices may alter and will be discussed in our initial meeting with the client

Concept Estimate:

For those who have concept designs and want a quick idea of cost -$690 + GST

A concept estimate in residential construction is a preliminary cost projection based on the general scope and parameters of a construction project. It is an early stage estimate used to provide a rough idea of the potential cost of a residential construction project before detailed design plans are developed.

A concept estimate takes into account factors such as the size and complexity of the project, the quality of materials to be used, and the location of the construction site. It can also include general cost projections for key elements such as foundation, framing, roofing, electrical, plumbing, and finishes.

Concept estimates can vary widely in accuracy, and they are generally less precise than later stage estimates developed during the design or construction phases. However, they can provide valuable information for clients and project stakeholders in deciding whether or not to move forward with a project, and in establishing a budget for the construction work.

Provides a rough idea of project cost:

A concept estimate will provide a rough idea of the potential cost of a construction project before detailed design plans are developed. This can help the homeowner determine if the project is feasible and fits within their budget.

Helps with decision-making:

A concept estimate can help with decision making by providing a clearer understanding of the project scope, limitations, and costs. This information can be used to make informed decisions about the project design, materials to be used, and other key factors.

Enables early identification of issues:

A concept estimate can help identify any potential issues or challenges that may arise during the construction process. This can include identifying any design or engineering issues that need to be addressed early on, which can help prevent costly delays and changes later in the construction process.

Builds trust with the builder:

By working with a builder to develop a concept estimate, homeowners or developers can build trust with the builder and establish a clear understanding of project goals, expectations, and budget. This can help ensure that the project runs smoothly and that all parties are on the same page from the outset.

Overall, getting a concept estimate by a builder is a valuable tool for anyone considering a construction project. It can provide valuable information to informdecision-making, prevent issues, and build trust with the builder.

Cost Analysis/Quotation

Our team works with one of our best associated estimators to get a proper cost analysis of your project - $500 - $5000+ plus GST, depending on size and complexity of the job.

Collaboration between a builder and an estimator can bring several benefits to the quote process for a residential construction project.

Here are some advantages of working together:

More accurate cost estimates:

Builders and estimators each have their own areas of expertise. Builders are knowledgeable about construction methods, materials, and labor costs, while estimators have experience with theestimating process and industry benchmarks. By working together, they can combine their expertise to provide more accurate cost estimates that take into account all the relevant factors.

Better understanding of project feasibility:

Builders and estimators can work together to assess the feasibility of a project and identify any potential issues that may impact cost or construction. This can help the client to make more informed decisions about the project and adjust the scope or design as needed.

Increased transparency:

Collaboration between the builder and estimator can promote greater transparency and clarity in the quote process. The client can have greater confidence in the accuracy and reliability of the cost estimates, which can help to build trust and a stronger relationship between the client and the project team.

Improved project outcomes:

By working together, the builder and estimator can develop a more cohesive and effective approach to the project. This can help to improve the overall outcome of the project, ensuring that it is completed on time, within budget, and to the desired quality standards.

In summary, collaboration between a builder and an estimator can bring several benefits to the quote process for a residential construction project. By working together, we can provide more accurate cost estimates, better assess project feasibility, increase transparency, and improve overall project outcomes.

Special Package including Pre-construction Consultation services

Our team along with our associated specialists can provide clients with the pre-construction consultation services they may require, including pricing proposal to proposed renovation/extension/builds - $5,500+ plus GST for pre-construction services depending on services required; and $500 - $5000+ plus GST, for full estimation, depending on size and complexity of the job.

These services may include:

Existing property inspections

Existing Property Inspections may include:

1.1 x Organise site service reports - Water, Telecommunications, Inground Stormwater, Inground Sewer, Natural Gas, Inground electrical

2.1x Organise CCTV investigation report

3.1 x Organise Soil Test and site classification report

4.1 x site inspection to determine:

Site Access

Construction suitability

Site service confirmation by hand excavation (if required)

Neighbour review – to determine site access requirements

Existing house inspection (if renovating)

Asbestos identification – as visible at the time of inspection

Existing house engineering/suitability

Water/termite damage

Wiring and plumbing – To be completed by a Licensed Plumber and Electrician.

New Design Consultations

New Design Consultations may include:

1.1 x Consultation with Engineer/Building Certifier to determine BA/DA suitability and fee proposal

2.1 x client site visit to previous/current

3.3 x meetings

1 x initial meeting to confirm and sign the preliminary agreement

1 x initial design meeting scheduled by the designer

1 x onsite meeting to review the design with the client and designer

4.Upto 4 x Client supplier visit with Knights CBI Pty Ltd, as required

5.3 x Knights CBI Pty Ltd to provide review and comment a maximum of 2 design drawing revisions, including the final drawing ready for building approval. Any additional charges will apply on more consultations provided.

Project Proposals

2 x Knights CBI Pty Ltd can provide an initial price estimate based on the client’s concept design and budget.

1 x Knights CBI Pty Ltd to provide a full project proposal, including the scope of works and total construction cost.

Builders have a greater understanding of what a residential construction project costs than architects or designers because they have experience and knowledge of the construction process and the costs associated with it. Builders have a deep understanding of the materials, labour, and equipment required for construction and can provide accurate estimates based on their experience with similar projects.

Builders work closely with architects and designers to ensure that the project is feasible and that the designs can be constructed within the budget. They can provide valuable input and suggestions to optimize the design for costeffectiveness and practicality. Builders can also provide insight into cost-saving measures that may not be apparent to architects or designers, in some instances.

In contrast, architects and designers are typically focused on creating a design that meets the client’s needs and vision, and may not foresee or experience the construction process and associated costs, especially in these unprecedented times. They may not be as familiar with the cost implications of different design choices, materials, and construction methods.

While architects and designers can provide important input and guidance on the design of the project, it is important to work closely with a builder to ensure that the project can be constructed within the budget and that all cost factors are taken into account. Builders can provide valuable insight and expertise on the practicalities of construction and the costs associated with it.

The pre-construction process is a crucial stage in a residential construction project, as it lays the foundation for the entire project. To ensure the best outcome for clients, the following team members should be involved in the pre-construction process:

Owner/Client:

The owner/client is an essential team member in the pre-construction process as they provide the vision and goals for the project. They also play a critical role in the decision-making process, ensuring that their needs and preferences are taken into account.

Architect/Designer:

The architect/designer is responsible for creating the design and plans for the project. They workclosely with the owner/client to understand their vision and requirements and translate that into a functional and aesthetic design.

Engineer:

The engineer is responsible for ensuring that the project is structurally sound and meets all relevant building codes and regulations. They work closely with the architect/designer and builder/contractor to ensure that the design and construction methods are safe and effective.

Builder/Contractor:

The builder/contractor is responsible for overseeing the construction process and ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They work closely with the architect/designer to ensure that the design can be feasibly constructed, and provide cost estimates and construction schedules.

Project Manager:

The project manager is responsible for overseeing the project from start to finish. They ensure that all team members are working together effectively, that the project is on schedule and within budget, and that any issues or challenges are addressed promptly.

By involving all of these team members in the pre-construction process, clients can ensure that their project is well-planned, cost-effective, and executed to the highest quality standards. The collaboration between these team members can help to minimize the risk of unexpected issues or delays during construction, ensuring a smooth and successful project delivery.

Paying a builder for consultation services during the pre-construction phase of a residential construction project can bring several benefits to the project. Here are some reasons why people should consider paying for builder consultation services:

Expertise and advice:

Builders have extensive experience in the construction industry and can provide valuable advice and expertise during the pre-construction phase. They can help the client to identify potential issues, develop cost-effective solutions, and optimize the project design for construction.

Cost savings:

A builder can help the client to identify cost-saving opportunities during the preconstruction phase. They can provide advice on construction methods, materials, and design elements that can help to reduce construction costs without compromising on quality.

Risk mitigation:

Builders can help to identify potential risks during the pre-construction phase and develop strategies to mitigate those risks. This can help to reduce the likelihood of unexpected issues arising during construction, which can lead to delays and cost overruns.

Stronger relationships:

By paying for consultation services, the client can establish a stronger relationship with the builder. This can help to build trust and confidence in the builder’s expertise, which can be invaluable during the construction phase of the project.

Better project outcomes:

By working closely with the client and the design team during the pre-construction phase, thebuilder can help to ensure that the project is wellplanned and executed to the highest standards. This can lead to better project outcomes, including a completed project that meets the client’s needs and expectations.

In summary, paying a builder for consultation services during the preconstruction phase of a residential construction project can bring several benefits, including expertise and advice, cost savings, risk mitigation, better project outcomes, and stronger relationships.