Avoiding Bill Shock

Keith Sawlor, June 6, 2013 | Posted in Build; Tagged Builders, Change Orders

Extra or unknown costs are a legitimate concern for those building a new home. You don’t want to sign off on one price, only to be stuck with a much different price in the end!

Avoiding this dilemma starts with choosing the right builder and ensuring proper documentation. But you’re not off the hook once construction starts — you need to be aware that changes can take place during construction as well!

Your Builder should have a process in place to handle changes that happen during construction, with the most common process involving a change order. Any changes made to your plan or specifications should be documented in a change order, with adjustments to cost, specifications, and timelines clearly detailed. You must sign a change order before additional work can take place, and should be accounted for in the building contract you’ve agreed on with your builder.

If all your paperwork is in order, your final bill should be a simple summary of your contract, allowance adjustments, and change orders. With no surprise costs tacked in to your bill, you can move in worry-free and spend your money where you choose to spend it.

Keith Sawlor

Keith Sawlor is the second generation Owner of Sawlor Built Homes. With more than 35 years experience building custom homes in Nova Scotia, Keith has built a team that mirrors his professional knowledge and values.

Keith is a Certified Residential Builder who is also certified with many leading industry organizations. He is a Passive House Institute US (PHIUS) Certified Builder, a Net Zero Energy (NZE) Certified Builder, a Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) R-2000 Certified Builder, and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

Keith is a Past Board Member of the Atlantic Home Warranty Program as well as the Canadian Home Builders' Association Nova Scotia. He is involved in many other industry programs and associations, such as the Canadian Home Builders’ Association National and Better Business Bureau.