When you build a home, choosing the right builder is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. It’s about much more than price – it’s about quality, communication, reliability, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your investment is in good hands.

Here are some green flags that indicate you’re dealing with a builder who is likely to deliver, respect regulations, and produce a home you’ll be proud of.

1. Proper Licensing, Insurance & Credentials

In Australia, every state has specific licensing requirements for builders and contractors. In WA, for example, builders need to hold the correct builder’s registration through the WA Building Commission. A good builder will readily show you their license, proof of insurance (public liability, workers’ compensation), and any relevant certifications.

2. Solid Track Record & Experience with Local Builds

Experience matters, especially local experience. A builder who has worked in Perth or WA will understand council requirements, local soil conditions, and how the climate behaves. WA experiences strong sun, heat, coastal salt, occasional cyclonic weather in the north, and bushfire risk. When you hire an experienced local builder, you reduce your risk of:

• Poor insulation, warping or rot
• Delays due to weather or shipping
• Cost blowouts from hidden issues or unclear scopes
• Disputes over workmanship or incomplete finishes

We also recommend asking for examples of past homes similar to yours and checking the builder’s portfolio and recent client testimonials.

3. Transparent Contracts, Quotes & Communication

Some of the biggest frustrations for clients are hidden costs, delays, or unexpected extras being added along the way. A good builder will provide a detailed, written quote, clarify what is and isn’t included, explain variations, and outline a payment schedule. During the build, they’ll keep you informed with regular progress updates and flag any unexpected issues early.  

4. Commitment to Quality & Attention to Detail

It’s easy to cut corners if margins are tight, but a good builder doesn’t. They select trades carefully, ensure workmanship is done properly using quality materials, and follow up on finishing details.

 5. Time Management & Scheduling Reliability

Delays cost money, not just in labour, but in living arrangements, finance, and stress. A good builder will have realistic timelines, schedule efficiently, and have contingency plans for common disruptions (such as weather, supply delays etc.). We suggest asking how many projects a builder is running at once; too many may stretch them too thin.

6. Good Reputation: References & Reviews

Word of mouth still counts, and a trustworthy builder will have many satisfied clients. Ask for references and take the time to call them. Browse online reviews (Google Reviews, Facebook, local community groups), check for any complaints or warnings with industry bodies (e.g. Master Builders WA, the Building Commission). Also, see if they have been recognised in their field with awards or commendations.

7. Integrity, Accountability & Fair Practices

Green flags include:

• Willingness to admit and fix mistakes
• Clear variation procedures (how changes post-contract are handled)
• Fair deposits and staged payments rather than large up-front asks
• Respect for contracts and customer rights
• Honest advice (not upselling where not needed)

Need Help Narrowing It Down?

If you’re about to build, renovate, or knock-down and start again, don’t settle. Use this checklist when you’re interviewing builders. Ask the right questions, visit their past builds, and make sure all the paperwork is clean. A good builder will not only deliver the home you want, they’ll make the process far less stressful, and more enjoyable.

Struggling to narrow down builders who tick all these boxes? Mr Enthusiast can help! Contact our team today.