Building Basics Overview Finance Contract Documents Building Specification s Cost of Building Architectural Drawings Building on a site Project Management Professional s An Introduction to Professional Services The Architect The Engineer The Building Designer The Quantity Surveyor The Cost Estimator The Project Manager The Building Contractor Insurance Plant Hire Overview Conditions of Hire and Rates Siteworks An Introduction to Siteworks Excavation Site Huts & Toilets Poisoning Tree Felling & Stump Removal Signage Building Basics http://www.buildaid.co.za/Resources/Understanding%20the%20Building %20Process.htm Overview There are a number of factors to be taken into account before beginning a building project, these range from finance and drawings to project management and building on a site. This section offers an overview of what one should be aware of, to ensure the basics are covered before the build commences. Finance Once you have decided to buy or build, the next step is deciding on a budget. Looking at a home loan (which the vast majority of people must do), it is important to note that banks generally do not offer more than an 80% loan. Therefore, one must have at least 10-20% of the purchase price before approaching a bank for a loan. Banks do sometimes offer a loan of the full purchase price, but this is rare and the interest rate implications are very high. Please note that when purchasing a home, it is the seller’s responsibility to ensure that the municipal rates and taxes are paid up to date and an electrical compliance certificate must be produced. It is important to note that with building loans, banks are reluctant to offer more than 70% of the cost of the contract. The purchase price can comprise the land and cost of building. If the land is paid in full, this can be used as security for a loan for the cost of building. Before one is able to secure a building loan, plans must be presented along with at least three quotes from a reputable building contractor (the building contractor must present proof of all risk insurance cover, and NHBRC enrolment certifi cates), an engineers report is most often required – this can be obtained through the contractor, the design professional, or directly from an certified structural engineer. Coupled with this, one must present a comprehensive document outlining how and when the building contractor will be paid. Contract Documents The JBCC Series (Joint Building Contracts Committee) contracts are recommended. There are various types of contracts to suit different circumstances. They are available from the NHBRC (National Home Building Registration Council), MBA (Master Builders Association) and through the JBCC website. The CIDB (Construction Industry Development Board) have also developed four contracts that are recommended.