FAQ

Can I supply and install my own materials during construction and who is responsible for these items ?

Some builders may refuse or restrict you, as the owner, from supplying your own goods or materials; or supplying and installing them during the construction process. You may be required to do this after you get the keys to your new home. Smaller, boutique builders tend to be more flexible in this area and generally are willing to work with you. If you do want to supply and/or install your own materials, this can be negotiated; but having adequate insurance is something that you need to keep in mind.

Generally, builders insurance policies will not cover theft or damage of anything you supply; and obtaining your own insurance may be difficult or costly. So how can you be protected? Here are two scenarios:

1 – If you supply goods or materials that we as the builder are contracted to install during the construction process, you are covered by our insurance up to a value of 10% of the contract value; subject to the goods or materials being on site. You are not covered by our builders insurance if you store them elsewhere, or while in transit/being delivered. In the event that a claim needs to be made, you will be responsible for payment of the insurance excess; so it best to check how much this is up front.

2 – If you want to supply and install goods or materials yourself during construction, this would not covered by the builder’s insurance policy and you will need to source your own insurance. If you don’t or cannot obtain insurance, it is highly recommended that you wait until after you have been handed over the keys to you new home.

The most common reason for you as the owner wanting supply and/or install your own materials is to save money. In some circumstances, you may be able to purchase at the same price the builder does; so you save on the builder’s margin. However, you also need to take into account the cost of insurance and any excess payments that may be required. In most cases, this would probably add up to more than it would to have the builder supply and install as part of your contract. If the materials that you want to supply/install are of a finishing nature (eg – carpets/window treatments etc) it is advised that you wait until after you have received your keys; as these items would then be covered under your normal house and contents insurance.

Does Activa have standard plans and display homes?

As a custom builder, Activa Developments designs each new home (or development) from scratch based on our clients brief. However, we do have an extensive catalogue of plans from previous builds that can be used as a basis for those who are unsure where to start. We work closely with all of our clients to ensure that our designs meet their vision, budget and lifestyle requirements. Activa Developments does not have any display homes, but we are more than happy to show our clients recently completed homes as well as homes under construction. We also have some fantastic previous clients who are generous enough to open their homes to others for viewing.

How soon will you start building?

We pride ourselves on saving our clients time and money by getting to site as quickly as possible. Our record is 8 weeks from initial client contact to slab down! As a client, there are also things that you can do to speed up the process. Creating an ideas board will help you at pre-start when it comes to making your colour selections. Also, as banks require more and more documentation for finance approvals, working with your bank and/or broker to make sure everything is in order will assist in getting your property to site as soon as possible.

Can I subdivide my block of land?

Subdivision, and consequently how many buildings you can fit on your block, is all dependent upon the zoning as per your local councils Town Planning Scheme. There may also be other considerations such as Detailed Area Plans. Our team have an in depth knowledge of the Residential Design Codes and extensive experience in working with local councils to achieve the maximum benefit on subdivisible development land. We can also assist you with the strata process.