When deciding on a contractor it is important to ask for at least five previous project references. Keep the following in mind: • The contractor and client should have the confidence to show their project without hesitation. • The professional relationship between contractor and client should still be in tact after completion of the project. • Tenders should be completely transparent. • All aspects of the building costs should be specified separately, and not summarised in lump sums.

The answer to this question is subject to a variety of factors and pertaining to the specific project: • Terrain and accessibility • Building type (single story or multi-level) • Chosen finishes • Weather conditions

As in the question above the answer to this question is subject to a variety of factors and pertaining to the specific project: • Project size (larger rooms usually cost less) • Chosen finishes • Specific services included (i.e. NHBRC fees, electrical and water connection, etc.)

It is of utmost importance not to enter into any contract except for one of the following: • JBCC PRINCIPAL BUILDING AGREEMENT - This type of contact is normally utilised on bigger contracts where a principal agent has been appointed; • JBCC MINOR WORKS AGREEMENT - Utilised for smaller contracts where no principal agent needs to be appointed; • MASTER BUILDERS OF SOUTH AFRICA: HOUSE BUILDING AND SMALL CONTRACTS AGREEMENT - Utilised for smaller contracts where no principal agent needs to be appointed. These contracts have been developed to protect the interest of the client and the builder and should not be modified in any way. Avoid contracts ‘based’ on the above contracts at all cost.