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 for their full plan catalogue (count) and whether they will send it as a PDF - transparent project builders have 40-120 base plans
• Ask what plan modifications they typically accept without triggering a re-drawing fee (wall moves within a room = yes; changing bedroom count = usually chargeable)
• Ask for their knockdown-rebuild volume - the number of KDR completions in the last 12 months (indicates comfort with demolition sequencing)
• Ask which Adelaide suburbs they have completed 3+ recent builds in - drive past examples before signing anything
• 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

Project builder vs. custom builder for Adelaide knockdown rebuilds

If you own an established Adelaide block, project builders are often the sweet spot - a catalogue plan adapted to your block width, orientation and slope, at $600-$1,200 per m² less than a full-custom equivalent. Full custom makes sense on tight or heritage sites; project makes sense on regular suburban blocks where a proven plan will suit.

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