The vetting checklist that applies to every Adelaide specialist

This is the same vetting method BuildPilot applies to every Adelaide builder we consider for our shortlist network. The first four checks below are specialist-specific; the rest are the core CBS SA + BII + ASIC checks that apply to every domestic builder working in South Australia.

• Ask whether they deliver modular / relocatable OR on-site build - modular is faster (4-6 months) and often cheaper; on-site is more customisable but 6-9 months
• Ask for their PlanSA / development-approval track record for secondary dwellings in your council area - some councils (Prospect, Adelaide Hills) run tighter setback rules
• Ask how they scope service extensions from the main house (sewer, water, power, NBN) - typical add $4k-$12k depending on distance from the main service points
• Ask for three granny flats they have handed over in the last 12 months with photos and, ideally, driveable references
• Verify current CBS SA Builders Licence (BLD number) on the public register at cbs.sa.gov.au/services/find-licensee
• Verify no active or recent disciplinary decisions on the CBS SA register
• Confirm Building Indemnity Insurance (BII) will be issued through QBE (SA sole insurer) for your contract price (all residential work over $12,000)
• Search the ABN on abr.business.gov.au - name, GST status, date of registration
• Confirm the entity is not under external administration on the ASIC register

The two Adelaide granny flat build models

Modular (relocatable) granny flats are built in a Salisbury or Lonsdale factory and craned onto your block on a screw-pier or slab foundation. Turnkey in 4-6 months, $135k-$220k typical. On-site builds run 6-9 months, $180k-$280k typical, but allow full plan customisation to suit unusual block shapes or heritage-facade matching to the main house. Modular wins on speed and price; on-site wins on customisation.

The four red flags that end the conversation

These four signals correlate strongly with builders who have failed or entered administration in South Australia in the last three years. Any of them means walk away.

• Requested deposit exceeds 5% of contract value on contracts over $12,000 (SA statutory cap under the Building Work Contractors Act 1995)
• Vague or evasive answer on BII eligibility for your specific contract price (QBE is the sole SA insurer - either the builder qualifies or they do not)
• Refusal to name their independent building certifier or to let you speak to them separately
• Aggressive time-limited discount contingent on paying deposit before you have read the contract