Our Builder FAQ page brings together the questions homeowners ask us most often. This applies whether you’re considering a new custom home, renovation, or duplex project. We’re a family-owned Builder, residents have trusted for over 30 years. We work across the North Shore, Northern Beaches, and Eastern Suburbs. We hear the same practical concerns come up again and again. These range from council approvals and budgeting, through to insurance and how involved a builder should be before design work is finalised.
We’ve put together honest, straightforward Builder FAQ below. These cover everything from working with your own architect, to how we handle Development Applications, to what our insurance coverage actually includes. If you’re planning a project in Willoughby, Roseville, St Ives, Mosman, Manly, or one of the many other suburbs we service, these answers should give you a clearer picture. You’ll get a better sense of how we work and what to expect.
Every project is different, of course, and this page can’t cover everything. If you have a question that isn’t answered here, we’d genuinely rather you ask us directly than guess. You can contact us any time to talk through your specific situation. You can also browse our testimonials to hear directly from past clients about their experience working with us. We’re also proud members of the Master Builders Association NSW. This membership reflects our commitment to the industry’s standards of quality and professionalism on every project we take on.
Are you happy to work with an architect I've already engaged, or do I need to start from scratch?
Either works well for us. We regularly collaborate with architects and designers throughout planning and construction including consultants. If you don't have plans yet, we're happy to recommend architects we trust based on your project.
Should I involve a builder before my design is finalised?
It genuinely helps. Bringing us in early even before your architectural drawings are locked in lets us flag budget, buildability, and site issues while they're still easy to fix, rather than after documentation is complete. It's one of the simplest ways to avoid costly surprises later.
Do you handle council approvals and Development Applications?
Yes. Most renovations, additions, and new builds require some form of council approval, and we guide clients through this process as part of our service. Because we've worked across the North Shore, Northern Beaches, and Eastern Suburbs for over 30 years, we're familiar with the councils and requirements in these areas.
How do you help with budgeting and where to spend money?
We give clients a realistic, upfront view of costs early on including where it's worth spending more, and where you can save without compromising the result. Transparency around budget is something we take seriously; we'd rather have an honest conversation early than surprises later.
Do you have experience building on difficult or sloping blocks?
Yes. Many properties across the North Shore and Northern Beaches sit on sloping or constrained blocks, and we've built extensively in these conditions. If your site is coastal, we also take material and design choices into account to suit salt air and exposure.
Will I have one main point of contact throughout my project?
Yes. As directors, we personally oversee every stage of your project. You're not handed off to a rotating cast of project managers. You'll work directly with us from initial design through to final handover.
Can I speak to past clients before deciding to work with you?
Yes. We're happy to connect you with past clients so you can hear about their experience directly. You can also read testimonials from clients, architects, and engineers we've worked with on our
Testimonials page.
How long does a typical renovation or new build take?
It depends on the scope, but many of our renovations and additions take around 8–11 months from start to finish, and larger custom builds can take longer. We'll give you a realistic timeline specific to your project before construction begins.
Are you insured?
Yes. We will obtain a Home Owners Warranty Insurance Policy before a deposit is paid and will provide Public Liability Insurance and Contractors All Risk Insurance before works commence, giving you protection and peace of mind throughout your project.
How do I get started?
Contact us to arrange an initial conversation about your project. We'll talk through your goals, budget, and timeline, and let you know honestly whether we're the right fit before anything moves forward.
Still Have Questions?
We're happy to talk through anything that's not covered here — get in touch and we'll give you a straight answer.
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