knowledge

9 Important Questions To Ask Your Custom Home Builder Before You Start Your Project

When you make the decision to build your own home, choosing the right builder is vital to bringing your dream home to life. You’ll want to ensure you’re comfortable with the people you’ll be working with, confident with their home building process, and assured that they will complete your project as promised. Asking these nine important questions will help you determine the right home builder for your project, and give you more confidence in your choice.

1. How long have you been building in Calgary?

You should look for home builders that have been in business for 5 years or more in your city. The longevity of a builder usually indicates that they have been reputable and trustworthy over the years. Also, home builders who have operated locally for a long period of time will better understand weather and soil considerations, local bylaws, and local construction trends.

2. Do I have access to the job site during the construction?

Typically, you are allowed to walk through the job site with your project manager to check on the progress of your home. Be sure to give a heads up before you visit though – it’s important to keep everyone safe on the construction site, and your project manager may have to take additional precautions before you visit.

3. Who will be my primary point of contact?

With so many people working on site, a home builder should provide you with a primary point of contact so you can ask questions and get updates. Ask how the builder provides information about the progress of your home so you know what to expect – some use email, phone, or an online project management system to relay information.

4. What if I change my mind? If I can make change orders, what is the process?

It’s different for every home builder, and it also depends on what you want changed. If it’s a matter of choosing different cupboard hardware, this can be switched relatively easily, though it’s better to make changes earlier in the process to avoid delays in the procurement of materials. For major structural components, this should be done in the design phase – a wall is much easier to move on paper than it is during construction.

5. Can you provide references? Can I walk through previous projects?

Reputable builders are proud of the work they do, and will gladly provide references. You can also ask if they have a current project you can walk through. Visiting an active work site can give you insight into how the builder operates and how organized they are.

6. What type of warranty do you provide?

At a minimum, a home builder has to provide 1 year for labour and materials, 2 years for delivery and distribution systems, 5 years for building envelope protection, and 10 years for major structural components in accordance with Alberta’s New Home Buyer Protection Act. Maillot homes proudly offers an additional 2 years of envelope protection for a total of 7 years at no extra cost to our customers.

7. What is the timeline?

The timeline for building a custom home depends on the complexity of the building plan, the size of the home, and weather. From excavation to possession day, the typical timeline for a 3500 square foot home with a double detached garage and finished basement takes approximately 12 months to complete.

8. How do you ensure we stay on budget?

A home builder should always be upfront with you about what is and isn’t included in your build. If there are changes to the initial plan, a home builder should always seek your approval before moving forward.

9. Is there anything that isn’t included in the cost?

With Maillot Homes, the cost of permits is not included. Everything else, from excavation to finishing touches, is included in the cost.
Building the home you’ve always dreamed of is one of the most exciting and rewarding decisions you’ll ever make! We hope that these nine questions will help you find the home builder that is right for you.