What is Independent Builders Network?
IBN is a business system and industry network, that helps progressive home builders who want to expand, but who struggle to compete with the big companies.
Our systems are built on our proven industry success, and are continually strengthened by the shared experience and expertise of our members.
Our professional industry networks – our independent builders, allied suppliers and business professionals in metro and regional Victoria are leaders in their field.
They are all dedicated to quality home design and construction through a comprehensive package of expert building and business services – with a commitment to delivering ethical, honest and quality workmanship, excellent customer service and value for money.
Why should I build with a member of the Independent Builders Network?
Independent Builders are best-of-breed local builders.
They are progressive, dynamic, professional builders who with the support of the IBN systems and networks, offer a building experience that is just not possible with the volume builders.
As a client building your IBN dream home, your relationship is with your reputable local builder – not a sales rep.
You also get the peace of mind and confidence knowing that your IBN builder is a fully trained, fully qualified, stable professional business, backed by the IBN team of industry professionals.
What type of guarantee will I receive with my dream home?
All homes are guaranteed against structural defects for the period of 7 years from the date we apply for your Warranty Insurance
What type of maintenance is available with my dream home?
Your Builder will generally provide maintenance for up to 13 weeks from when you take occupancy of your dream home.
Is my Dream Home insured while my builder is constructing it?
Yes, your house is insured under your builder’s “All Risk Construction” policy. Please note that the insurance expires upon issue of the Certificate of Occupancy.
The foundations are complete and my dream home looks too small. Will it fit?
Yes, your dream home will fit on the concrete or timber floor. It may appear too small, but this is a popular misconception at this stage of construction.
Can I have a key to my dream home so I can access it when I want?
No, we cannot hand over our builder’s master key at any time. Your builder will, however, arrange for the house to be opened for you by prior arrangement, during business hours, just contact the builder with your requirements.
Can I discuss or instruct the builder’s sub contractors when I visit the site as pre arranged?
It is better if you do not discuss the work with sub contractors. Any instructions or changes given to sub contractors must only come from your builder. Due to requirements of the builder’s insurance policy, you should not visit the site unless you have permission from the builder.
What if I want to vary something in my dream home after signing the contract. What is the procedure?
Variations must be put in writing and given to the builder. Refer to our special conditions about variations which are requested after contract signing and colour selection.
Do post contract variations delay work on my dream home and cost more?
Variations requested after the colour selection has been completed will always delay progress and will cost significantly more than adjustments made before the plans and specifications are finalised. It is better to avoid post-contract changes.
When can my builder give me an approximate completion date of my dream home?
The completion of your new home is dependent upon Council requirements, weather, availability of materials, variations to the contract, etc. We can, however, give an approximate date of completion once we reach the fix out stage.
Can I keep any left over building materials? What is the procedure?
Sometimes you may be able to keep excess materials (eg. bricks) but you must not do so unless you have written permission from the builder.
Who arranges connection of Electricity, Gas and Telephone?
Generally, it is the owner’s responsibility to arrange these items. Keep in touch with your builder to find out the correct time to arrange these connections.
When do I arrange my own house and contents insurance?
You should arrange applicable cover for your house and contents from the day you take occupancy of your new dream home.
When can I discuss anything to do with my dream home with my Builder?
We are available by phone during normal business hours (Monday – Friday 8.30 am to 5.30 pm), or by mobile if there is an emergency after these hours. We ask that you respect our private time which we prefer to devote to our personal and family matters.