WHAT SHOULD YOU LOOK FOR IN A BUILDER?

Buying an apartment, or building a house is a lifetime investment for most of us. So choose a builder who is reliable and can deliver the goods he promises on time. A builder should be able to give you real value for money. Be sure of the credentials of the builder.

• Before you hire a builder, look at some of his/her work.

• Inspect the site of his/her projects personally and take references from at least three former clients.

• Do not judge the builder by the fee charged, either high or low. Look for the quality of his work and the authenticity of the material he has used in his earlier projects.

• When the builder shows you the plans for a proposed project, ascertain that the project is legally sanctioned.

• The builder should be willing to make arrangements for maintenance, once the construction is complete.

• The builder should we willing to have all agreements in writing.

During construction ascertain details like:

• If the builder has promised plastic emulsions on the walls, has he really given that or has he just used ordinary distemper.

• The builder could have assured quality copper wiring, but since the wiring is concealed, he could have used cheaper quality wire.

• Has the builder delivered items like bathroom fixtures, wiring, tiles, doors and sanitary ware in accordance with the prices he has charged.

• If the builder has taken up more than one project at a time and you have paid him for completing a certain stage, beware, he may be using your money for an entirely different project.

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