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Find answers to frequently asked questions and should ask questions here or else get in touch via our contact page

SAQ – Should Ask Questions

Are you a Registered Builder?
Yes, we are a registered builder with an Australian Business Number (ABN) 40 621 418 175, and we have been registered since 2017, ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements and standards within the construction industry.
Do you have the required insurances?
Yes, we have all the necessary insurances in place to cover various aspects of our operations, including public liability insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and contract works insurance. These insurances provide comprehensive coverage to protect our clients, employees, subcontractors, and business interests from any potential risks or liabilities that may arise during the course of our projects, ensuring peace of mind and adherence to industry standards and regulations.
How do you communicate with clients during the custom home building works process?
Our priority is the quality of your experience, so it is imperative that communication lines are kept open throughout the entire process. You will have daily updates on your project and you will have direct contact with Andy the Director and Builder for any communications during business hours. The team will inform you of progress updates through a variety of methods like video, emails or text messages and you can schedule times to visit site to check out the works. We will provide you with the contact details upon commencement with Perway.
How do you handle delays or unexpected issues during construction?
Handling delays or unexpected issues during construction requires proactive communication from our team. While various factors like hitting rock formations or experiencing delivery delays are often beyond a builder’s control, our strong relationships with suppliers and subcontractors are vital. For instance, imagine a delivery delay from over East due to unforeseen transportation issues. In such cases, our team relies on our network and effective communication channels to swiftly address the issue. It’s imperative to maintain open lines of communication with our clients, ensuring they are promptly notified and provided with comprehensive explanations regarding any encountered delays or challenges. Whatever the issue, the Perway team must assess the situation, potentially involving experts, to develop a plan to minimise the impact on the project timeline and budget and work as a team with the client to resolve the issue.
Do we need to have our plans drawn before we come and see you?
You don’t need to have your plans ready before coming to us. In fact, we prefer it if you don’t. We’re here to help you through the entire process, from brainstorming ideas to turning them into reality. If you haven’t got your plans yet, we can work with you and our design team to create something that fits your budget and matches your vision perfectly. But if you already have plans, that’s great too! We’ll gladly work with them and your designer/ architect that you already have. Our aim is to make the whole building process easy and tailored to you, no matter where you are in your planning journey.
How do you calculate the cost of my building works?
We have developed a two-stage costing process for all our clients tailored to their individual needs to give peace of mind and confidence at every step of the way.
At concept stages, we offer a Quality Building Estimate. Using a unique software program used by hundreds of builders across Australia which has up to date pricing, we enter the fundamental details and quantities for your project to generate an estimated price range.
Should this initial assessment resonate with your vision, we transition to our Full Detailed Proposal phase. Here, we provide you with a thorough and highly specified quotation customized to reflect your unique preferences and requirements. ready for a fixed price included in your building contract. With our transparent approach, we want the homeowner to embark on a building journey with confidence knowing that your vision is accounted for in your fixed price building contract.
What types of materials do you typically use, and can I choose specific brands or suppliers?
At Perway, we prioritise quality and flexibility in material selection to ensure your project meets your expectations. We have cultivated strong relationships with our interior designers and numerous suppliers across Perth, granting you access to a wide array of options. While you are welcome to choose specific brands or suppliers that align with your preferences, it’s important to note that our team will handle the purchasing process. This approach not only streamlines the logistics but also safeguards against any potential warranty issues or discrepancies with materials on-site.
How do you ensure quality control throughout the construction process?
Quality control is paramount, ensuring your project meets the highest standards. We now use quality checklists for each construction phase and subconractors works are inspected prior to payments being made to them. We are passionate about our quality and our team are very meticulous and go over and above the Australian standards every time. We’ve partnered with seasoned and reputable trades, many of whom we’ve collaborated with for years which adds an extra layer of assurance.
What are your payment terms, and how do you handle billing and invoicing?
We adhere to legal requirements and transparent billing practices for our clients. Upon signing the contract to initiate the project, we invoice for 6.5% of the contract value, securing the works. Following this, we implement progress payment stages aligned with key project milestones. At each stage of significant work completion, an invoice will be issued to you for payment. We will guide you through this during our contract educational process.
Do you incorporate sustainable or energy efficient practices into your construction process?
Sustainability and energy efficiency are integral to our construction methods in Perway. Andy is a Passive House qualified tradesperson, and Martin has completed extensive training in this area. We actively educate our clients on the mass of benefits of incorporating Passive House principles into their homes, such as significantly reduced energy consumption, superior indoor air quality, and enhanced comfort. We often integrate high-performance insulation, advanced ventilation systems, and double-glazed windows to optimise energy efficiency and thermal comfort.
Can you provide a written contract outlining all terms and expectations for the project?
At Perway, we prioritise transparency by offering a contract educational process from the project’s early stages. Through this initiative, we explain contract clauses to our clients and discuss the mechanisms that occur in a contract should it needed to be used, ensuring their full understanding and comfort with the terms and expectations outlined. By addressing any questions or concerns along the way, we aim to foster trust and collaboration, eliminating any pressured signing at the end. Our goal is to empower clients to make informed decisions and feel confident about their project’s contract before proceeding.
Other builders provide a free quote – why do you charge a fee?
You might be wondering why we charge for our quotes when some builders offer them for free. Well, here’s the thing: there’s a big difference between a simple estimate and a detailed proposal. When you invest in a detailed quote with us, you’re getting a comprehensive plan tailored specifically to your project. While a free estimate might give you a rough idea, it probably wont cover all the important details. By investing in a quote, you’re ensuring that we take the time to truly understand your needs and goals. Think of it as an investment in peace of mind and a smoother construction journey, rather than an added expense down the line.
Why don’t you provide a square meterage or per square rate?
This is a common question we hear a lot. As a custom home builder, we don’t have a set rate per square meter because every home, location, and client is different. The great thing about working with us is that you get to choose everything about your home – from the layout to the finishes. We understand that it’s helpful to have an idea of costs upfront, so when we look at your plans, we’ll give you a quality build estimate using our estimating software and based on similar projects we’ve done before. This helps you understand what you can achieve with your budget. When we give you a final proposal, it’s a fixed price for everything we’ve discussed and designed together, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
Why do you have a Pre-Construction Process at Perway?
At Perway, we have a Pre-Construction Process to help you plan and design your dream home before we start building. We take this step seriously with all our clients to ensure everything runs smoothly and your home is built to the best possible standard. During this process, we’ll talk to everyone involved, like architects, engineers, and local authorities. We’ll also give you a detailed cost proposal so you know exactly what to expect. It’s all about making sure your home turns out exactly how you want it, right from the start.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

How much do renovations cost? How much do new builds cost?
Renovations and new builds vary widely in cost depending on factors like size, complexity, and materials used. Renovations often involve working within existing structures, which may not be as cost-effective than building from scratch as they may also require updates to older systems and tie in the old with the new. New builds offer the opportunity for custom design and may have higher upfront costs but can be more efficient in the long run. It’s best to discuss your specific project with a builder to get an accurate cost estimate tailored to your needs and budget.
How do I know what selections I need to make?
Knowing what selections to make for your project can feel overwhelming, but we can guide you through the process. We can team you up with our interior design consultants and they can help you choose everything from flooring and fixtures to paint colors and cabinetry, ensuring your selections align with your style, budget, and project goals.
Do I need to have all my selections chosen before contract signing?
While having all selections made before contract signing can streamline the process, it’s not always necessary. Perway can include provisional sums for items that haven’t been finalised yet, allowing you to make decisions as the project progresses. However, having most selections made upfront can help avoid delays and ensure a smoother construction timeline and the more selections you have chosen the more fixed and accurate your contract price will be.
How long does Council approval take?
Council approval timelines can vary depending on your location and the complexity of your project. Typically, it takes several weeks to several months to obtain council approval, including time for application processing and any required reviews or revisions. Perway can provide more specific timelines based on your specific project details and local regulations.
What is the Warranty period?
Defects will be covered for a period of six years for structural issues and one year for non-structural defects, starting from the completion of the works.
When should I apply for finance?
Applying for finance should be done early in the planning process to ensure funding is in place when construction begins. Start exploring financing options and securing loan approvals as soon as possible to avoid delays once your project is underway.
How long will our project take?
The duration of your project will depend on various factors such as project size, complexity, weather, and permitting timelines. Perway can provide an estimated timeline based on your project details and their experience with similar projects.
How long will it take to prepare the detailed Proposal?
Preparing a detailed proposal typically takes several weeks, as it involves thorough planning, cost estimation, feasibility studies, value management and coordination with subcontractors and suppliers. Perway will work diligently to ensure the proposal accurately reflects your project scope and budget.
What is a PC (Prime Cost) item?
A PC (Prime Cost) item refers to an allowance in a construction contract for the cost of materials or products that have not been specifically chosen or specified at the time of contract signing. This allowance helps cover the cost of these items, allowing you to make selections later in the project without delaying construction.
What is a Provisional Sum Item?
Provisional Sum (PS) items are set aside for uncertain work or services, like excavation or foundation work, which can’t be accurately priced at contract signing due to variables like site conditions. The actual cost is determined once the scope of work is finalised.
What is the difference between a volume or Project Builder and a Custom Builder?
Volume or project builders typically offer a selection of pre-designed floor plans with limited customisation options, while custom builders work closely with clients to design and build unique homes tailored to their specific needs and preferences. Custom builders provide more flexibility and control over design, materials, and finishes, resulting in a truly bespoke home.