Contract Terms

Tendering

George Giannakakis

By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: · How we research

Comparing builders? Our Adelaide home-builder guide covers builder types, quote comparison and the contract clauses to watch out for.

Tendering explained in detail

A competitive process whereby potential builders submit bids for consideration by the owner to carry out a building project. The tendering process ensures value for money and provides transparency, fairness and equal opportunity for all bidders. Owners typically invite 3-5 builders to tender.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about tendering

It's recommended to get at least 3 detailed quotes from builders, ideally up to 5 for larger projects. It helps to make quotes like-for-like by providing the same plans and specifications to each builder. Compare inclusions carefully-the cheapest quote may have the most exclusions.

Contract and legal information

Building contracts, dispute resolution, and consumer law are complex and vary by state and contract type. The information here is general in nature and may not apply to your situation. For advice about your specific contract, rights, or dispute, speak with a building lawyer, your state’s consumer protection body, or a licensed building consultant.

Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.

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