WE FOCUS ON YOUR NEEDS 

architects

If you are the architect, you will be concerned about  and questions you may ask
Costs;

1. That the project is properly costed with all reasonable inclusions.
   
2. That variations are reasonably based on changes. - ie some builders will search the drawings for omissions so  they can leave those items out of the initial price and charge extra later as a variation.
3. Variations if they are not the result of a change in the design can cause a lot of friction. And they make the architect look bad.
   
4. Architects bear some responsibility too - documentation needs to be thorough and it sometimes isn't. 

Timing;-

1. Often beyond the builders capacity to control - especially if there are changes involved.
   
2. But can be because the builder is overly optimistic and promises unrealistic deadlines - like christmas or easter.
   
3. Can be  the result of poor coordination of sub contractors - not getting them booked on time and not staying on the case - ie calling them frequently to make sure they will be there  etc.

High defects list;-

1. Poor subcontractors. - A good builder has good subcontractors.
   
2. Builders experience is important here - ie knowing which construction systems or details are likely to cause problems because they have seen it before.
   
3. However some defects are inevitable. Fast and effective action on a defect does immeasurable good to the reputation of the builder. Almost better than if there were no defect. Likewise if a builder is slow to fix a defect, or is reluctant to see it as a defect or to fix it, then an architect will never recommend  that builder again.

Other:-
Undermining the architect

1. The builder undermines the architect by criticizing the architect to the client. (Architects can be guilty of undermining the builder too)
2. Mutual respect always makes for a better building. 

Client:- will the client and builder form a team with you

1. The client is the 3rd part of the team. A good client pays bills quickly, makes decisions quickly and is generally supportive. A good team makes the whole project a pleasure to work on. architect try to be insightful when they take on clients.
   
2. Both the architect and builder work together and  need to be careful about managing their clients expectations. 
   
3. Builder and architect should not make unrealistic promises  and should be quick to  correct unrealistic expectations.

Details
The way the building is detailed is really important. Some builders will disregard the architects details and often we will come on site and see details that shouldn't be there. It costs money to rebuild them. That doesn't mean details can't be discussed and, if agreed, modified.
At the end of the day architects want a beautiful building and a happy client.


At complex constructions we have the methods and experience to work closely with the architect so that delays and cost overruns are limited and if we can eliminated.

clients

If you are the client, then the following are some of the issues you face and questions you may ask
Costs:-

1. Initial tender cost, is this within the budgets that you have set for yourself
2. Are the quotes you are receiving value for money
3. Is your architect or builder giving you the correct advise on costs
4. Are there going to be unforeseen costs and how can you control them
5. Has the builder included all the costs, if not why not
6. If there are cost variations to the contract how will they be controlled

Timing:- 

1. Can the project be completed within a specific time frame
2. Is the builder able to provide a comprehensive time line chart (program)
3. Is there any probable causes that can delay the works outside of wet weather
4. Is the time frame overly optimistic
5. Has the builder built in penalties for delays and what effect does this have on the overall budget
6. Has the architect insisted on liquidated damages in the contract and will this ensure the builder complies with the time line

Defects:- 

1. Can this builder demonstrate that his work provides for minimal defects if any
2. Does the builder and the architect have the level of quality in mind for my project
3. How are the architect and builder going to ensure quality control on my project
4. Is the builder willing and able to fix any problems quickly and efficiently.

Safety:-

1. If i stay in the premises during the works, how is the builder going to ensure my safety and amenity during the construction
2. Is there going to be fences and barricades put up all around my house
3. Do i have to allow workers access to the toilet facilities
4. Will the builder keep the house clean at the end of each days activities
5. Are there any insurances i need to know about

Team:-

1. Are the architect and the builder, people that you find, you can respect and get along with, can you form a team with the final goal in mind and work cohesively together to achieve that goal

At complex constructions we believe the client is the captain of the team, he provides the direction for the architect and the builder to go, the builder along with the architect provide the expert analysis to provide the client with the information required to make informed decisions and when required to do so.

builders

As the builder we have the following concerns
Costs:- Overrun on costs can be caused in several ways
Causes

1. Poor workmanship
2. Poor site management (document control, programming and sequencing of works)
3. Poor office management, (cost control, project management)
4. High use of foreign labour, (no English, no current certificates insurances, lack of resources)
5. Use of poor substitute materials, (cheap, foreign suppliers, not to Australian standards)
6. High use of under qualified labour and trades, (high use of apprentice labour and unqualified labour)
7. Poor documentation, leading to confusion in construction methods and systems

Timing :- Overrun on program time (delays) 
Causes

1. Poor project management 
2. Poor site management
3. Poor subcontractor letting (timing and incorrect contractor for purpose)
4. Poor subcontractor control
5. Poor materials handling
6. High use of under qualified labour and trades
7. High use of foreign labour, no English
8. Use of poor substitute materials 
9. Poor architect-client-builder communication systems

High defects lists:-
Causes

1. Poor site documentation, quality system
2. Poor site documentation control procedures
3. Poor management of site personnel and subcontractors
4. Poor site management control procedures

Safety:- High accident rate
Causes

1. Lack of safety procedures
2. Poor WHS (Work Health and Safety) site control and management
3. Poor management at tender stages, safety audits
4. Low site moral
5. Lack of site direction and communication
6. Poor site housekeeping (keep the site clean)

Team:-

1. will the client and the architect look at you as an equal partner in the team
2. will the contractors you bring to site have any influence on that team structure and can they harm that structure
3. what can be done to achieve the outcomes required through an effective team structure

​At complex constructions we have the methods and the experience to provide the solutions to overcome all these issues, with over 38 years’ experience, we are the builder of choice.