The bulk of Everest Contracting’s projects consist of remedial building work – or fixing building problems that are ultimately the result of the original builder not conforming to Australian building codes and standards.

One of the common issues we come across are waterproofing issues. Water leaks through roofing, ceilings, walls and floors often occur when there is heavy rain. This is frequently the result of incorrectly applied waterproofing and/ or using non-compliant waterproofing products during a new build or renovation.

During the investigation process we can find damaged waterproofing membranes, this can be the result of builders installing new windows, doors or other equipment on existing membranes and causing damage to them, rather than rebuilding the waterproofing and lintels from scratch before installing new equipment.

Water issues can also be the result of roof flashings that are incorrectly installed. If the flashings installed are not high enough, they will not divert water to gutters adequately when there is a large amount of rain or when drains are blocked. Water will overflow the flashings and flood roof cavities and flow down walls.

If window flashings have been incorrectly installed, when there is rain and wind the rain can penetrate the window flashings. This can cause dampness in the adjacent interior area and also in rooms below that share the same wall.

Quality workmanship is a core value held by Everest Contracting. To ensure we produce lasting, reliable results on every project, we adhere closely to the Australian Building codes and standards and we use only compliant building products.

Prior to commencing our projects, we obtain project specifications from building consultants, which specify the products we are to use. If these are unclear, we obtain advice from specialist consultants including engineers, architects and accredited suppliers to provide us with reports and recommendations for procedures and products. Our clients are always consulted during this process too.

Prior to hand over of any project, we have a final inspection by building engineers and consultants to ensure our work has met Australian standards and codes.

If you want to ensure you have an ethical Builder who meets Australian codes and standards, you can do the following:

  • Ensure you have a written and signed contract before you begin. By law, your chosen builder must give you a written contract if the contract price is over $5,000. Jobs worth between $5,000 and $20,000 require a ‘small job’ contract with minimum basic information, while building jobs worth more than $20,000 must be covered by more extensive written contracts
  • Request a copy of the Builder’s Home Owners Warranty for your job, Public Liability Insurance and Workers Compensation Insurance certificates; check these are valid by contacting the insurance company shown on the certificate

Be wary of:

  • a builder or tradesperson who encourages you to sign a contract quickly to avoid a price increase – this is usually just a sales pitch
  • a builder who suggests you get an owner-builder permit while they organise all the building work for you. This can be a ploy used by builders who don’t have the right kind of licence, or can’t get home warranty insurance. Sometimes, it’s simply to avoid responsibility. If you become an owner-builder, you take on added responsibilities and place yourself at greater risk if the work is not done properly.
  • a builder or tradesperson who gives you a quote which seems extremely low compared with others.

 

Contact us for more information.