FAQs

Why We Don’t Provide a Square Metre Rate

We often get asked: “How much to build my house?” or “What do you charge per square metre?”

For custom builds, there’s no simple answer. Every project is unique—design, materials, site conditions, and client expectations all influence the cost. A square metre rate can only ever be a rough guide, not an accurate quote.

It can be useful early on to get a sense of size vs. budget, but a proper quote requires a full review of your plans, the site, and all project details. We price each element carefully—materials, trades, consultants, and finishes—to provide a number that truly reflects your vision and avoids surprises later.

The more detailed your documents, the more accurate your quote will be. For a typical project, we aim for a 3–4 week turnaround (depending on size and complexity). If documents are incomplete, the quoting process may take longer as we gather the necessary information.

Ideally, we require electronic copies (PDFs) of:

  • Architectural working drawings
  • Specifications
  • Finishes schedules
  • Structural drawings
  • Civil/drainage plans
  • Geotechnical report
  • Landscape plan
  • Energy rating
  • Joinery plans
  • Other services drawings (electrical, plumbing, HVAC, etc.)

 

Not all documents are mandatory, but the more you provide, the more precise the tender. If anything is missing, we can help source it through our trusted consultants or provide provisional/prime cost estimates for elements not yet detailed.

Every home we build is unique, so a quote is more than just a number—it’s a detailed assessment of your design, site, materials, and finishes. We review your plans thoroughly, consider site conditions, and allow for items that aren’t fully selected yet. This process ensures the quote is accurate, tailored to your vision, and avoids surprises later. If we proceed with your project, any fee for preparing the quote is deducted from the contract price, giving you confidence and peace of mind from the very start.

When preparing a quote or contract, it’s important to define what’s included as accurately as possible—even down to small details like fixtures or fittings. Sometimes, this isn’t possible at the time of quoting or contracting, so we use Prime Cost (PC) items and Provisional Sums (PS) to allow for these variables.

Prime Cost Item (PC):
An allowance for the supply and delivery of materials or items not yet selected, such as taps, baths, or light fittings. The final selection is made by the client and the cost is based on the PC allowance.

Provisional Sum (PS):
An allowance for work that cannot be fully scoped before tendering or signing the contract. This includes both supply and installation, for example, joinery, landscaping, air conditioning, or rock removal

Working with a boutique builder means your home is treated as a unique project, not just a job. We focus on every detail—from design, materials, and finishes to site-specific considerations—while providing a highly personalised experience. You’re not just another client; we guide you through the process, offering expertise, transparency, and care at every stage, ensuring your home is tailored to your lifestyle and vision.

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