The vetting checklist that applies to every Melbourne specialist

BuildPilot does not yet match Melbourne builders. Until we do, this is the vetting method we would use ourselves. The first five checks below are specialist-specific; the rest are the core VBA + VMIA + ASIC checks that apply to every domestic builder working in Victoria.

• Ask about concrete vs fibreglass vs vinyl-liner preference - concrete lasts 40+ years but takes 4-6 months to build; fibreglass 2-3 months but 25-30 year lifespan
• Ask about pool heating strategy - solar boost + heat pump is the Melbourne standard; gas backup for cool-season use
• Ask their AS 1926 fencing compliance experience - fence is subject to a mandatory Council Registration and independent inspection
• Ask about excavation and spoil removal - reactive clay lots (Class H1/H2) common in Melbourne need engineered retention during dig
• Verify current VBA registration and category on the public register at vba.vic.gov.au/practitioners/register
• Verify no active or recent disciplinary decisions on the VBA disciplinary decisions list
• Confirm Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) will be issued in the builder's name for your contract price under VMIA (all residential work over $16,000)
• 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

Concrete vs fibreglass vs vinyl for Melbourne pools

Concrete pool (in-situ shotcrete): 4-6 month build, 40+ year lifespan, fully custom shape and depth, most expensive up front ($90-150k+). Fibreglass pool (factory-made shell dropped in): 2-3 month build, 25-30 year lifespan, limited shapes but 6-8 week faster, $55-90k. Vinyl-liner pool: cheapest up-front ($45-70k) but liner requires replacement every 10-15 years ($8-15k). Concrete dominates Melbourne premium market; fibreglass dominates mid-market; vinyl is a small segment.

The four red flags that end the conversation

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

• Requested deposit exceeds 10% of contract value (Victorian DBC Act caps deposits at 5%)
• Vague or evasive answer on DBI eligibility for your specific contract price
• Refusal to name the Registered Building Surveyor or to let you speak to them independently
• Aggressive time-limited discount contingent on paying deposit before you have read the contract