10 (ten) most important things for the Homeowner

The 10 most important things that the South African homeowner should be aware of and look out for when building a house:

1. Registered Builder and NHBRC Enrolment:

• Ensure your builder is registered with the National Home Builders Registration Council (NHBRC). This verifies their legitimacy and provides some recourse if issues arise during or after construction. Check the NHBRC website (https://www.nhbrc.org.za/registration-process/) to confirm their registration number.
• Look for a builder with a good track record and positive customer reviews. Speak to previous clients and homeowners about their experience.

2. Building Contract and Specifications:

• Have a comprehensive written building contract that clearly outlines the project scope, timeline, costs, payment schedule, material specifications, and variation procedures.
• The contract should include details on:
  • Approved building plans and SANS 10400 compliance (latest version might not reflect current NBR, so consulting a professional is recommended).
  • Warranties on materials and workmanship.
  • Termination clauses for both parties.
  • Dispute resolution procedures.
• Don’t rely solely on verbal agreements. A clear contract protects both you the homeowner and the builder.

3. Building Plans and Approvals:

• Obtain municipal approval for your building plans before construction begins. This ensures your house adheres to zoning regulations and safety standards.
• An architect or draftsperson can assist with plan creation and navigating the approval process.
• Consider factors like future expansion possibilities, energy efficiency, and accessibility when finalizing your plans.

4. Financial Planning and Budgeting:

• Building a house is a significant financial undertaking. Be realistic about costs and potential hidden expenses.
• Factor in not just the construction cost, but also:
  • Architect/draftsperson fees.
  • Municipal approval fees.
  • NHBRC registration fees.
  • Building material costs (fluctuations can occur).
  • Professional inspections.
  • Contingency fund for unforeseen issues.
• Secure financing through a construction loan from a reputable financial institution.
• These loans typically disburse funds in stages based on construction progress verified by inspections.

5. Site Management and Communication:

• Schedule regular site visits to monitor progress and ensure adherence to plans and specifications.
• Maintain open communication with your builder. Discuss any concerns or questions promptly.
• Delegate a point person to handle communication with the builder if needed.

6. Inspections and Quality Control:

• Arrange for professional inspections at key stages of construction, such as foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical, and roofing.
• Qualified inspectors can identify potential issues early on, saving you time and money on rectifications later.
• The NHBRC offers inspection services as well.

7. Material Quality and Warranties:

• Ensure the builder uses materials as specified in the contract.
• Request warranties for materials and workmanship to ensure coverage for any defects within the warranty period.

8. Health and Safety:

• The builder is responsible for maintaining a safe working environment on the construction site.
• Ensure proper safety precautions are taken, including signage, barriers, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for workers.

9. Insurance Coverage:

• Obtain adequate homeowner’s insurance to cover the building project during construction and after completion.
• This protects against unforeseen events like fire, theft, or weather damage.

10. Project Completion and Handover:

• Upon completion, conduct a thorough final inspection with the builder before making the final payment.
• Ensure all agreed-upon works are complete and meet the agreed-upon standards.
• Request all necessary certificates and guarantees, such as occupancy certificate and electrical certificate.

Additional Considerations:

• Environmental Impact: Consider sustainable building practices and materials to minimize the environmental footprint of your home.
• Guarantees and Warranties: Understand the length and scope of warranties offered by the builder and manufacturers of materials used.
• Snag List and Touch-Ups: After completion, there may be minor snags or touch-ups needed. Address these with the builder before finalizing the project.

Remember, building a house is a journey, not just a destination. By being proactive, informed, and well-prepared, you can significantly increase your chances of a smooth and successful building experience. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice from architects, engineers, or building surveyors when needed.