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.
HOW CAN WE HELP?
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?
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 work 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 the 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 customised to reflect your unique preferences and requirements that is 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 subcontractors’ works are inspected prior to payments being made to them. We are passionate about our quality and our team is very meticulous and goes 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 incredible 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 a 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 need 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 won’t 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 metre 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 as 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 colours 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 my 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.
What is a granny flat?
A granny flat or accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a second dwelling on your property that is separate from your main house. These buildings are known as ‘granny flats’ because they often house ill or elderly parents. However, this isn’t all they can be used for.
What else can I use a granny flat for?
The possibilities are endless, but popular options include:
- A retreat for your kids
- A home office, studio or gym
- A long- or short-term rental property
- A way to boost your home’s value before sale
- A place for you to relax after a long week!
Can I rent out a granny flat?
Absolutely – a major benefit of building a granny flat is the potential for additional rental income.
By renting out the unit, either as a long-term rental or as an Airbnb, you can enjoy a steady stream of revenue, helping to offset mortgage payments or cover other expenses. This added income can significantly improve your financial stability and overall quality of life.
Will a granny flat boost my property’s value – and if so, by how much?
A granny flat or Premium Pod will instantly add value to your property, making it more desirable should you be planning to put your home on the market, or offering long-term financial gains if you’re staying put. They’re also a cost-effective upgrade when compared to major structural renovations or moving house, meaning that you’ll most likely come out financially ahead if you opt for an ADU.
To work out how much value a granny flat could add to your property, research recent property sales in your area to gauge the potential increase in property value. Look at the size, finish quality and other attributes of granny flats in your area to see what provides the biggest bang for buck when it comes to boosting property values. There’s also the return on investment to consider if you rent it out.
Why build a granny flat instead of an extension or an extra storey?
First of all, granny flats tend to be more cost-effective than structural renovations, due to the simple fact that we’re not interacting with your main building. You do not have to contend with structural changes to your home (or any nasty surprises) which immediately reduces the cost.
Granny flats also provide huge flexibility in terms of their usage, which a traditional extension or second storey may not provide. Finally, building a granny flat is typically less disruptive than a structural renovation. We never even need to step inside your house, meaning far less disruption to your daily life.
What’s the most important thing to think about when designing a granny flat?
Space! Even the biggest granny flat is usually smaller than your main dwelling, so it’s important to make use of creative ways to maximise space. This could include smart storage solutions or ways to transform your space at a moment’s notice.
Perway’s Premium Pods are masterpieces of space-saving ingenuity, as well as being simply beautiful to behold. Our extensive range of designs combine smart storage, seamless layouts and multifunctional areas to create the perfect space, whatever your needs and no matter how small the space.
Do I need planning permission to build a granny flat?
There have been recent rule changes in Western Australia, you no longer need council planning approval to build a granny flat. If your granny flat is less than 70 square metres and meets setback requirements then you will not typically need planning approval. You will still need building approval in the form of a building permit. This is something that Perway can assist you with – get in touch if you’d like to discuss further.
How environmentally friendly are Perway Granny Flats/ Premium Pods?
Our Premium Pods are expressly designed to be sustainable and energy efficient. Their size alone makes them more energy efficient and eco-friendly than larger homes, as they require fewer resources for construction and maintenance, resulting in reduced carbon footprints.
All our Premium Pods are based on sustainable timber frameworks, making them low impact to start with. In terms of construction, timber frames are cost-effective, environmentally friendly and generate lower noise pollution – making the building process easier and simpler too.
But that’s not all. Our Premium Pods are designed using the passivhaus principle, which uses natural light and heat for better energy conservation, a healthier environment and lower utility bills for you. Combine that with double glazing and Pro Clima wall wrapping, and you’ve got a dwelling which is a paragon of sustainability.
What should I think about when planning my granny flat?
First and foremost, think about your vision for the granny flat or Premium Pod. Decide what purpose(s) it will serve – guest retreat, workspace, gym, creative space or more. Decide on the basic layout and other must-haves like amenities, layout preferences and any unique design elements (our expert designers can guide you through this stage). You can also consider whether you want it to be fabricated off site which makes the process much quicker than a traditional dwelling.
How do I choose the right builder for my granny flat?
As with any project, choosing the right builder is essential. Start by seeking recommendations from friends or family who’ve built granny flats, and checking online reviews. Create a shortlist of three or four builders and ask them for references, ensure they have the necessary licences and insurances, and view their previous projects. Finally, meet them to discuss your vision with them: choose someone who understands your (underlying) needs, truly listens to you and has a proven track record of delivering quality work.
Perway Construction Services are Perth’s experts in granny flats. We provide a comprehensive granny flat design and construction service from concept to completion, with a team of professional and reliable tradespeople, so you don’t need to coordinate multiple professionals. To create your backyard haven (or talk to us about any other project), get in touch today.
What's the difference between cosmetic and structural renovations?
Structural renovations change the home’s structure, while cosmetic ones only refresh the finished elements. A good example of a structural renovation is an extension, whereas a kitchen renovation is usually considered to be cosmetic.
What is the Perways Procurement Process for Materials?
It is a common misconception that sourcing your own materials is a cheaper alternative to letting your builder source them for you. Letting your builder procure materials for your project offers significant benefits, ensuring both quality and cost-effectiveness. Builders have established relationships with trusted suppliers, enabling them to secure high-quality materials at competitive prices, often better than retail. Additionally, they possess the expertise to select the right materials that meet your specific needs, ensuring durability and performance. This expertise prevents costly mistakes and delays that can arise from sourcing inappropriate or substandard materials. By relying on your builder’s professional network and knowledge, you gain peace of mind, knowing your project is in capable hands and progressing smoothly, ultimately saving you time, money, and stress.
Can I live in my home during the renovation process?
Depending on the scale of the renovation, we highly recommend that homeowners find alternative accommodation during a renovation to ensure a smoother, more efficient process and a more pleasant living experience. Staying in your home means enduring daily disruptions, noise, dust, and restricted access to essential areas, which can significantly impact your comfort and well-being. Additionally, the constant need to pack up and reset living spaces each day can lead to delays and added costs, ultimately prolonging the project. By choosing to live elsewhere, you not only avoid these inconveniences but also allow the renovation team to work more efficiently, ensuring your project is completed on time and to the highest standard. This temporary adjustment ultimately saves you time, money, and stress, while providing a more enjoyable renovation experience.
How will my renovation impact my property value?
A well-executed renovation can significantly increase your property’s market value due to improving functionality, enhancing the property’s overall appeal and perhaps adding additional living space. However, it’s essential to ensure that the renovation is of high quality, remains within budget, and meets potential buyers’ needs.
What types of renovations do you carry out?
At Perway Construction Services, we’re renovation specialists – we provide a full custom renovation service throughout Perth. We carry out all of the following (and more):
What else can I use a granny flat for?
The possibilities are endless, but popular options include:
- A retreat for your kids
- A home office, studio or gym
- A long- or short-term rental property
- A way to boost your home’s value before sale
- A place for you to relax after a long week!