FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q. How much does it cost to build per square metre?
A. We do not price per square metre as each house is very different in the design and the design of the fittings chosen.
Kitchens and bathrooms are rooms that especially vary in size and cost.
Quoting on each individual job gives you a guaranteed price for our building works.
Q. Can we contract you up to a certain stage?
A. Yes, we can price your building project to whatever stage you require and complete the scope of work to that point.
Q. Does Brownhill Homes design homes?
A. No, but we have excellent relationships with designers that can do this for you.
We can work with you to help ensure that their designs meet your budget.
Q. Can we use our own trades?
A. Yes you can use your own trades. They will need to sign a commitment form to Brownhill homes as do all the trades on site that helps us to work together and ensure a safe and streamlined building process.
Q. How do we get a quote from Brownhill Homes?
If you use our contact form or call us on (03) 9879 1791 we will send you a Client Details and Tender Form. This will have a complete list of the plans and reports we need to provide you with the most accurate quotation.
Q. How long does it take to get a quote?
Once you have supplied us with all the documentation, our estimating team can then get to work. We aim to have a quotation to you within a two week period.
Q. Do you have a standard range of fittings that you supply?
A. Brownhill Homes has a showroom in our factory in Ringwood that has a standard range and a premium range so you can see the different colours and finishes for yourself. We have trusted suppliers that enable us to give you the best price possible on quality finishes and fittings.
Q. Can I choose my own fittings?
A. Once you have signed a contract with us, we have a colour and finish selection process that allows you to choose from our ranges and also include your own fittings that you have previously selected.
Q. When is a building permit required?
A. Building applications are required for all new building work.
Q. Will my neighbours be notified of proposed building works?
A. Residents will be notified of proposed building works when a planning permit is required or if there is protection needed to the property that is adjoining, usually when there will be substantial excavation.
Residents will also be notified if there is a variation to the siting requirements.
Even though general building works do not need you to inform your neighbours, it is advisable to talk about your proposed project as a common courtesy.
Q. Can a building permit expire?
A building permit may lapse if the building works are not started within one year of the permit being issued.
Building works are not completed within two years of the building permit date.
An application can be submitted to your local council for an extension of time. Permits issued by a private building surveyor must be submitted to the same surveyor.
Q. What is an Energy Five Star Rating?
There are energy efficiency standards that apply to all new homes, alterations and extensions to existing homes.
All new homes must have:
- A five star rating for the building fabric
- Water conservation measures
- Rain water tank for toilet flushing or a solar hot water system
An Energy Rater will need to review your building plans to assess whether your building plans comply with the Five Star energy rating.
