Choosing the right builder should be a step-by-step decision, not just a comparison of prices. A lower quote may look attractive at first, but the right builder should give you confidence in their licence, registration, experience, communication and ability to manage your project properly. Start by checking these key points: 1. Check their licence and registration Before anything else, make sure the builder is licensed and registered to carry out residential construction work in Victoria. For many domestic building projects, Victorian requirements state that the builder must be a registered building practitioner, particularly for major domestic building work. A professional builder should make their registration details easy to find, including their builder registration or licence number on their website, quote or contract documents. If you cannot find it, ask for the number directly and check it through the Building and Plumbing Commission practitioner register before making a decision. 2. Review their relevant experience Look for a builder with experience in projects similar to yours, whether it is a custom home, home renovation, extension, knockdown rebuild or heritage restoration. The right builder should understand the type of work you need, not just general construction. 3. Look at their portfolio and workmanship Review completed projects to understand the builder’s quality, finish level, attention to detail and style of work. A strong portfolio helps you see whether the builder has delivered homes similar to what you want to achieve. 4. Read reviews and check their reputation Client reviews and testimonials can help you understand how the builder communicates, manages expectations and handles the construction process. Look for signs of reliability, professionalism and clear communication, not just attractive photos. 5. Assess their communication from the first conversation A good builder should explain the process clearly, answer your questions properly and help you understand what happens before, during and after construction. If things feel unclear at the beginning, they may become harder to manage once the project starts. 6. Compare the quote, not just the final price Do not choose a builder based on price alone. Check what is included, what is excluded, what may become a variation and how progress payments are structured. A clear quote and building contract are just as important as the price itself. 7. Check deposit and progress payment terms In Victoria, domestic building deposit limits apply. As a general rule, the deposit should not be more than 10% if the contract price is under $20,000, or 5% if the contract price is $20,000 or more. Progress payments should also be clearly set out in the contract and usually relate to completed building stages, such as base, frame, lock-up, fixing and completion. This is an important sign of professionalism. Be cautious if a builder asks for a large upfront payment, unclear progress payments or money before the required documentation is in place. 8. Choose a builder who can guide you through planning and decisions Site conditions, permits, structural requirements, materials, timelines and budget priorities can all affect the final outcome. The right builder should help you understand these details before you commit. At DEMK Constructions, we combine registered building experience, engineer-led planning and clear communication to help homeowners make informed decisions from early consultation through to handover. Sources: Consumer Affairs Victoria – Deposits and payments for building work Consumer Affairs Victoria – Paying for building work checklist Building and Plumbing Commission – Building practitioner registration Building and Plumbing Commission – Find a practitioner

You can contact DEMK Constructions whether you already have architectural plans or are starting from the early idea stage. As a custom home builder in Melbourne, we offer a full turnkey building package and can guide you through the custom home building process, including design coordination, planning, permits and construction. This helps you understand the right pathway for your site, budget and long-term goals before the build begins.

For eligible domestic building projects over $20,000, DEMK Constructions arranges the required BPC Home Warranty cover. This may provide protection for major defects for up to six years and other defects or non-compliant work for up to two years, subject to the scheme’s eligibility, limits and exclusions.Domestic building work in Victoria is also protected by statutory warranties, with legal rights applying for up to 10 years from completion of the building work.

A fixed price building contract gives you a clear price for the agreed scope of works, based on the plans, specifications and inclusions outlined in your proposal and contract.At the quoting stage, you may not have selected every fixture, fitting or finish yet. In these cases, we include an allowance based on our standard builder range, giving you a realistic starting cost for the project.You can choose from the included builder range, or if you prefer a different or more premium product, you can upgrade by paying the price difference. This gives you the flexibility to customise your finishes to suit your style and budget.For example, you may choose a tile within the included allowance, or select a different material or more premium finish if it suits your style and budget. If your selection is above the allowance, any price difference will be clearly discussed with you before proceeding.Allowances are simply a way to provide a clear starting budget while keeping your selections flexible. Any changes or upgrades are discussed with you before proceeding.