CHANGING BUILDER
CHANGING BUILDERS MID PROJECT - HERE'S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Changing builders is a big decision and often not one you ever planned to make. Whether it’s due to delays, poor communication, rising costs, or complete breakdowns in trust, walking away from your current builder can feel stressful and uncertain.
At BuildPilot, we help you navigate the switch with clarity, protect your project from further risk, and connect you with a builder who can pick things up with professionalism and care.
HOW BUILDPILOT CAN HELP YOU FIND A NEW BUILDER
We understand the complexities of changing builders mid-way through your home build or renovation. Here’s how we can help:
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Assess the stage of the build and what’s required to move forward
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Support you in negotiating with the new builder for fair pricing and timelines
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Connect you with reputable builders experienced in takeover projects
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Recommend a construction lawyer that can help you if you need
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Help identify incomplete works, variations, and outstanding approvals
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Assist complete insurance paperwork (where required)
QUESTIONS WE
HELP ANSWER
Can I legally walk away from my current builder?
We’ll guide you through what to check in your contract and when to seek legal advice. Terminating a contract incorrectly can be costly, so don’t make a move without understanding your rights.
Will another builder take over a half-finished project?
Yes—some builders specialise in takeover jobs. We help you find those who are capable, insured, and willing to continue your project.
What documents or plans will I need to change builders?
You’ll need your existing plans, contract documents, engineering, council approvals, and site reports. We help gather and prepare everything a new builder will need.
How do I avoid repeating the same mistake?
We help you shortlist suitable builders based on your current situation, block, and timeline—so your second start is a fresh and smarter one.
SIGNS IT MIGHT BE TIME TO CHANGE BUILDERS
Unexplained Construction Delays
If your builder is missing deadlines without offering valid explanations—or worse, ignoring them altogether—it may be a sign of poor planning, resource shortages, or deeper operational issues.
Builder Became Insolvent
If your builder goes into administration or liquidation, your project can be left in limbo. It’s critical to act fast, protect your interests, and find a qualified builder to safely take over.
Multiple Variation Charges Not Agreed Upon
Surprise invoices for changes you didn’t approve? Unauthorised variations can signal poor communication or a lack of process, and they may be used to inflate the build cost unexpectedly.
Lack of Communication or Transparency
When your builder avoids answering questions, fails to provide updates, or dodges accountability, it becomes nearly impossible to trust their process—or the end result.
Missed Milestones Without Valid Reasons
If your builder keeps missing agreed stages like slab, frame, or lock-up without explaining why, it’s a sign that timelines and project management may be falling apart behind the scenes.
Gut Feeling That Things Just Aren’t Right
Sometimes the red flags aren’t on paper—but in your instincts. If you constantly feel uneasy, dismissed, or confused, it’s worth stepping back and getting a second opinion before things get worse.
Have you tried our free app yet?
ON DEMAND ADVICE ON FINDING A BETTER BUILDER
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KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN FINDING A NEW BUILDER
01.
Review Your Contract Carefully
Before making any moves, review your original building contract. It’s important to understand your termination rights, potential penalties, and whether you’re legally allowed to exit based on your builder’s performance.
02.
Document Everything
Keep clear records of all emails, text messages, variation quotes, site photos, and payment receipts. This protects you in case of disputes and helps the next builder understand where things stand.
03.
Assess the Stage of Construction
Determine exactly what’s been completed and what remains. An independent inspection can help identify defects, incomplete works, or hidden issues before handing over to a new builder.
04.
Be Strategic About Your Next Builder
Not all builders are willing to take over a project halfway through. Look for those with renovation or takeover experience—and make sure they’re licensed, insured, and have capacity.
05.
Plan the Handover Carefully
Transitioning from one builder to another needs proper planning. This includes organising approvals, transferring documents, and clearly outlining what needs to happen next to avoid further delays.
