10 Essential Questions to Ask Before Building Your Home

Published: November 11, 2025 | Category: Building Tips

Questions to ask before building your home

Introduction

Building your dream home is one of the most significant investments you'll ever make. As NHBRC registered builders with over 20 years of experience in Limpopo, we've seen many projects succeed because homeowners asked the right questions from the start. To help you make informed decisions, we've compiled the 10 essential questions every prospective homeowner should ask before breaking ground.

1. What is My Total Budget, Including Contingencies?

Before you begin, establish a realistic budget that includes not just construction costs, but also:

  • Land purchase (if applicable)
  • Professional fees (architects, engineers, surveyors)
  • Municipal approvals and permits
  • Site preparation and utilities connection
  • A contingency fund of 10-15% for unexpected costs
  • Landscaping and finishing touches

Understanding your complete financial picture prevents mid-project surprises and ensures you can complete your home to the standard you envision.

2. Is the Builder NHBRC Registered?

In South Africa, working with an NHBRC (National Home Builders Registration Council) registered builder is crucial. This registration ensures:

  • Compliance with national building standards
  • Access to warranty protection for your home
  • Professional accountability and quality assurance
  • Protection against builder default

Always verify your builder's NHBRC registration status before signing any contracts.

3. What is Included in the Contract Price?

Get clarity on exactly what's included in your quoted price. Ask specifically about:

  • Site preparation and excavation
  • Foundation and structural work
  • Electrical and plumbing installations
  • Fixtures and fittings (what quality/grade?)
  • Flooring, tiling, and paint
  • Kitchen and bathroom installations
  • External finishes and roofing

A detailed breakdown prevents misunderstandings and helps you compare quotes accurately.

4. What is the Expected Timeline?

Understanding the project timeline helps you plan your life around the build. Ask about:

  • Start date and expected completion date
  • Key milestone dates (foundation, roof, finishes)
  • Factors that could cause delays (weather, material availability, approvals)
  • How delays are communicated and managed

Realistic timelines account for Limpopo's climate, municipal processing times, and material supply chains.

5. Who Will Be Managing My Project?

Know who your point of contact is throughout the build. Ask:

  • Who is the project manager?
  • How often will you receive updates?
  • What is the best way to communicate questions or concerns?
  • Who handles on-site decisions if you're not available?

Clear communication channels ensure your vision is understood and implemented correctly.

6. What Warranties and Guarantees Are Provided?

Understand what protection you have after completion:

  • NHBRC warranty coverage (typically 5 years for major structural defects)
  • Workmanship guarantees
  • Material warranties from suppliers
  • What's covered and what's not
  • How to report issues after handover

Proper warranties give you peace of mind and protect your investment.

7. Can I See Examples of Your Previous Work?

Reviewing a builder's portfolio helps you assess:

  • Quality of craftsmanship
  • Design capabilities
  • Attention to detail
  • Style and finish quality

If possible, visit completed projects or speak with previous clients to understand their experience.

8. How Are Changes and Variations Handled?

It's common to want changes during construction. Clarify:

  • The process for requesting changes
  • How variation costs are calculated
  • Timeline impact of changes
  • Approval process for variations

Understanding this process helps you make informed decisions if you want to modify the original plan.

9. What Happens if There Are Disputes or Issues?

While we hope for smooth projects, it's wise to understand:

  • The dispute resolution process
  • How quality issues are addressed
  • Your rights as a homeowner
  • NHBRC complaint procedures if needed

Professional builders have clear processes for handling concerns fairly and promptly.

10. What Happens After Handover?

Your relationship with your builder shouldn't end at handover. Ask about:

  • Defect liability period and process
  • Maintenance guidance and recommendations
  • Warranty claim procedures
  • Ongoing support availability

Good builders provide guidance to help you maintain your new home properly.

Conclusion

Asking these questions before you start building helps establish clear expectations, prevents misunderstandings, and ensures you choose the right builder for your project. At Chitate Holdings cc, we welcome these questions and are committed to transparency throughout your building journey.

Remember, building a home is a partnership between you and your builder. The more informed you are, the smoother the process will be, and the better the outcome for your dream home.

Ready to Start Your Building Journey?

If you're planning to build in Mokopane or anywhere in Limpopo, we'd love to discuss your project. With 20+ years of experience and NHBRC registration, we're here to help you build the home you've always dreamed of.