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Readers Letters Building blocks Chris Lamprecht’s article in your Readers’ Letters of March 2008 regarding the status of the building industry in relation to quality begs a response. Here are some simple rules for the pre-selection and appointment of builders that your readers should employ: Rule 1 – Builders should be registered with the Master Builders Association (MBA) and the NHBRC. The regional MBA offices have lists of approved builders and there is recourse back to these associations when problems arise. Rule 2 – They should be paid-up members of the Workmen’s Compensation Commission (proof of good standing must be provided). Rule 3 – The builder should be given a complete set of drawings, as well as a finishing schedule (where there is uncertainty with what finishes you want, a provisional amount should be set by you). Rule 4 – Have a contract in place from a recognised building institute (i.e. JBCC-BIFSA or MBA). They are obtainable from the respective organisations. Make sure that you have an arbitration clause. Rule 5 – Builders are to provide proof of full-time appointed craftsmen, bricklayers etc., and that their teams are not just random crews picked up off the street. There is no harm in doing reference checks on past works. Rule 6 – Where a builder does not have his own staff, but uses subcontractors, ensure once again that a contract between the builder and the ‘subbie’ is provided and is in the format as per Rule 4 above. Rule 7 – Use a professional team. Don’t skimp. Where new houses and large jobs are concerned appoint a registered architect-designer to manage the project on your behalf. Rule 8 – Don’t pay the builder any deposits up front, but agree to a ‘draw-down’ policy. Rule 9 – Retention is only possible if the contract allows for it, so make sure it does, and [that the wording] is as per industry norms. Rule 10 – Don’t litigate, arbitrate. The best form is summary arbitration; it’s cheaper, quicker and enforceable. [Letter abridged.] Property involves us all. What’s your view? Email letters@thepropertymag.co.za
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