How We Work With You
1Initial Consultation
Lets chat! We like to get together early. New build or renovation? Options for design - Registered Architect, architectural designer or draughtsperson? Timeline? Budget?
2Design Concept Plans
First basic concept plans are drawn up. We can give you an estimate based on these plans. This is an important set because if the concept is well beyond budget this is the best (least expensive) time for you to revise your plans.
3Detailed Plans
When you've settled on your concept design. Your architect, designer or draughtsperson will complete detailed drawings including building and material specifications.
4Pricing
When your detailed plans are complete we can price your build. Together we will agree whether a fixed price or charge up contract best suits your project.
5Council Consents
Your detailed plans are submitted to council for building and (where necessary) resource consent. Sometimes changes are required to meet council requirements.
6Construction
Construction progress is monitored against the agreed timeline and budget. Where material specifications or plans change this is considered a variation and typically increases the cost. The Council completes regular inspections throughout the process to ensure the build complies with mandatory codes. You'll make payments as construction progresses in accordance with our contract.
7Final Stages
When your build is completed the Council will carry out a final inspection and provide a code of compliance certificate. We will work with you and our sub-trades to complete any remedial work required such as final paint touch ups.
Why You Should Engage Us Early
We want our clients enjoy the building process. Work with us early in your design process to avoid common pitfalls and make the most of our expertise and experience.
Progressing with a design you can afford
We've had too many clients come to us with plans that are 3 (or more!) times their budget. The bad news is your architect, designer or draughtsperson is not likely to be a pricing expert. J.Grae Building can usually provide an estimate from your concept drawings. This means you can avoid paying for expensive detailed plans of a home you cannot afford to build. Concept Design is the best stage to refine your plans to your budget. Do not miss this opportunity.
Your plans revised with our practical advice
Your builder's advice is even more important when it comes to detailed plans. As you refine your design details and chosen materials with your architect, J.Grae Building can help with practical advice on ways to tackle problems that arise. Whether that is further revising your plans to meet your budget, working through a tricky detail or complex site issue, or considering alternative materials we've seen used before.
Our pricing is backed by expert advice
For a complex renovation or new build we typically engage a qualified third party quantity surveyors to price detailed plans. This gives you added confidence that your build can be delivered on time and on budget.
Let us establish trust for the road ahead
We want you to enjoy your build. When we work together from early in the process we have the opportunity to build trust and understanding. We know you better and understand what you are hoping to achieve with your build. Ultimately the process is more rewarding for you and for us.
Professional Project Management
We use the latest technology to bring you real time project updates from site. You can track progress with our daily logs and photos and keep an eye on your budget with ease.