14/02/2021
Bula vinaka to all those who have been following our work through this page. For the last few weeks, we were committed to working on a house that had been abandoned by four contractors who did not complete the house.
We had to open up the roof to fix the leaks, grind the walls as the plaster was uneven, chip the floor, scrap the paint, redo the GIB board work, redo plumbing, etc, etc. It would have been easier if we were to built a new house instead.
However, we are glad that we have worked with the owner to ensure that we completed the house according to her plan.
One more week and we will be done.
Just a few advice to those who are planning to build their dream home;
1. Do not leave the contractor to work alone for a week. If you are working make time to visit the site after every two days. You can gauge the quality and the quantity of work they do.
2. Consult with the Contractor on the choice of materials if you are giving General Contract. (Quality and within the Budget)
3. Do not always go for a cheap quotation when you can afford to pay a bit more. As you build, there will be some additional minor alterations that you will want, and that costs money.
4. Do some research on the background of contractors submitting quotes.
5. Remember do not give a lump sum of cash upfront to the contractor. If you are taking a loan from the bank, just follow the draw down (even check the percentage drawdown as per in the quote to ensure that the first and second % drawdown is not more than 30% of your total project cost.
