joeandchels wrote:
The state of optimism clearly.

The rules for owner builders vary from state to state. What I was getting at is if you are building in Victoria and this is not going to be your PPOR then you won't be able to do it. I don't know what course you are thinking of doing but they normally don't teach you anything about building,…[Read more]

$85/hr is too steep. I'd be looking for another sparky.Tools

What state are you proposing to build in?Tools

Fans of "the Block" will have seen Frank Valentic from Advantage purchase one of the properties. Chance or shrewd marketing? He is also the head honcho of the buyers advocate division of the REIV.Tools

You won't be able to get the permit without having a registered builder on board.Tools

In Victoria most councils require an asset protection permit for every property where a building permit has been issued. This also involves paying a bond which is refunded if no damage occurs to the council assets. It is usually sent to the owner of the property when the permit is issued but should be passed on to the builder to deal with.Tools

I would pay to get the place sorted out and get a tenant in, then worry about chasing the money. You need to take control of the situation and not sit around just waiting for it to happen.Tools

A void built for concealing plumbing.Tools

crusty wrote:
I have heard builders only want to work 6 months of the year as they have made sooo much money out of the stimulus package and building schools. 

You have it half right. We do only want to work 6 months of the year( who wouldn't !), but participating in the BER and NSP works on schools is not the means to this end.tools

That station will be relocating soon….Tools

Do you have drawings and a spec that details the work to be completed? Tools

Gee, when I read the title I thought you wanted help with your wife !

They are notoriously hard to off load. I have been watching some in my local area that have been on the market for more than 3 years. Even with dropping the price 10% people just can't get rid of them.Tools

By the way, this is in Melbourne and things may be different where you are.Tools

I don't think finding out who is at fault will get you anywhere.The utilitiy companies argue that if you maintain the status quo then there is no issue. In the past we have had to pay to relocate HV power lines that cut across the corner of a block we were building units on. At the moment we are diverting a sewer that is under a new building we…[Read more]

I might be interested too, depending upon timing and location. CBD would be my preference.Tools

The rules have changed and you aren't able to do this unless it is your PPOR. There are also limits to how many you are able to do. Google "building commission" and you will find your answers.Tools

Scott No Mates wrote:
– roofing and roof plumbing doesn't (you don't need a ticket to connect to stormwater).You will need an OB licence.

Maybe not where you are but in Victoria you need to be licenced.Tools

Expect a big variation in prices. I just had some done (about 50m2) and the prices ranged from about $5000 to $20,000.Tools

Depends on the council.Tools