Looking for a custom new home builder in Melbourne?

Before engaging any builder, it’s essential to ensure they’re properly licensed in the state or territory where they’re operating. For those in Victoria, you can verify a builder’s credentials through the Victorian Building Authority’s Practitioner Search tool:

Practitioner Search with Victorian Building Authority

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It’s also a good idea to check if the builder is registered with reputable organisations like Master Builders Australia (MBA) or the Housing Industry Association (HIA), as this ensures they adhere to industry standards and best practices.

Taking these steps can give you peace of mind that you're working with a qualified professional.

To undertake the construction of a complete home or carry out significant residential building work, your builder will need a Domestic Builder (Unlimited) Registration.

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Kenyon Building holds a valid and current Domestic Builder (Unlimited) Registration, CDB-U 101019, ensuring we’re fully qualified to manage your project from start to finish.

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Additionally, we are a proud member of the Housing Industry Association (HIA), with membership number 1367388, which further demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest industry standards. You can be confident that your project is in capable hands.

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The more detail you can provide to your builder, the more accurate their quote will be. This is often called the "tender package" and it includes all the technical information your builder needs to understand the scope of your project and your specific requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the key documents that will help ensure an accurate and clear quote:

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1. Detailed Architectural Plans and Drawings
   Providing a full set of architectural drawings is essential. These should include the site plan, floor plans, elevations, sections, and details. These plans will cover the project’s location, layout, room dimensions, height, and views from different angles.

2. Specifications Document
   This document outlines the materials and finishes you want to use, such as timber, concrete, tiles, paint, and more. You can also include preferences for brands, fixtures, and products—things like kitchen cabinetry, bathroom fittings, and lighting choices.

3. Engineering Reports
   Structural engineering reports provide crucial information about load-bearing structures like foundations, beams, and columns, ensuring that the right materials and construction methods are used. Soil and geotechnical reports are equally important, detailing the soil classification and any potential challenges with the site that might affect excavation or foundation work.

4. Site Information
   Specific site details are essential, including access for construction equipment, noise restrictions, utility connections, and any old structures that may need to be demolished. These factors will help the builder plan accordingly.

5. Scope of Work (SOW)
   The SOW outlines all tasks, deliverables, and responsibilities for each party involved, establishing clear expectations for the project. Your architect can help you create this document.

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At Kenyon Building, we can assist in gathering all the necessary documentation and guide you through the process.

Alternatively, we’re happy to collaborate with your own architect or draftsperson to ensure everything is in place. Having all these details upfront helps the project run smoothly and ensures accurate pricing.

Please note that Kenyon Building generally charges a fee of $1,000 + GST to tender new builds, depending on the complexity of the project.

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This fee will be reimbursed if:

• Kenyon Building is selected as the successful builder, and a building contract is signed within three months of the quotation.

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We strongly believe that our small tender fee is a worthwhile investment, as it will ultimately save you money in the long run by providing you with detailed, transparent pricing and all the necessary information to make informed decisions.

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If you choose to go with another builder, you'll still have the benefit of our "open book" quote, which will allow you to easily compare options and make sure you're getting the best value.

At Kenyon Building, we provide an 'open book' quote that is designed to be straightforward and easy to understand. Our comprehensive quote template typically includes the following key information:

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• Itemised Cost Breakdown – A detailed list of all costs, including materials, products, labour, subcontractors, equipment, permit approvals, site preparation, demolition, waste clean-up, and more.

• Projected Timeline – Clear start and completion dates, along with key milestones to track progress along the way.

• Provisional Costs and Allowances – Estimates for items that are yet to be decided or those that can’t be fully determined at the time of quoting.

• Inclusions and Exclusions – A transparent list of what is and isn’t included in the quote, ensuring there are no surprises down the line.

• Payment Schedule – A clear outline of when payments are due, helping you stay on track financially.

• Warranties and Insurance Details – Information on warranties for workmanship, products, defects/issues, and home warranty insurance to provide peace of mind.

• Contract Terms – A proposed set of terms and conditions for the contract, including dispute resolution processes and clauses for potential delays.

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This open-book approach helps to build trust and ensures that there are no hidden costs, giving you the clarity and confidence to move forward with your project.

If you're ready to take your project to the next stage, we'd love to hear from you!

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Simply complete the contact form below, and we'll get in touch with you as soon as possible to discuss your plans and how we can help bring them to life.