FAQS
DOES MY BUILDER NEED TO BE A LICENSED BUILDING PRACTITIONER?
The short answer here is yes. To carry out restricted building works in New Zealand, you need to be an LBP. Most building work, such as new builds, renovations and anything requiring a building consent, needs and LBP.
HOW IS RB THOMAS LTD DIFFERENT FROM IT'S COMPETITORS?
In an industry that is growing faster than people can be trained, where most people become qualified never having touched a floor prep or installed linings, we bring a wide range of experience to the table. We may be a small team, but there is nothing we dont know how to do, and not a lot of areas we havent completed projects in. If you are struggling to find a builder for a non standard project, get in touch today.
DO I NEED A BUILDING CONSENT?
Building consents are required for the following;
* Structural work- this includes new builds, additions, alterations and re-piling.
* Plumbing and drainage
* Heating, ventilation and air con systems.
* Retaining walls higher than 1.5 metres or with a building or dwelling near the top
* Fences more than 2.5 metres high.
* Swimming pools and swimming pool fences
* Decks more than 1.5 metres from ground level.
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Building consents are no longer be needed for a number of new or expanded types of low-risk building work, like sleep-outs (without bathrooms or kitchens), sheds (less than 30m2), carports (less than 40m2), outdoor fireplaces and ground-mounted solar panels.
Please see www.building.govt.nz for further information.
CAN I MAKE CHANGES TO MY PROJECT?
Yes, we welcome changes to make sure you get the most enjoyable outcome for your project. Please be aware however, that any changes incurring extra labor or material costs will be treated as a variation. All variations will be costed and presented to you for approval before work commences.
HOW DO I CHOOSE THE RIGHT BUILDER?
Each company has their own persoanlity and specialty. Not only do you need to find a good builder, you also need to make sure they are the right builder for your project.
You also need to make sure they have licensed builders that are able to manage all aspects of construction. They can provide the required warranties and documents after project completion.
WHAT IS A BUILDING CONSENT?
A building consent is a legal, written document which is apporved by your local council, to carry out building work and complies with the Building Code. It is completed in accordance with plans and specifications submitted with the consent application.
WHY DO SOME BUILDERS COST MORE THAN OTHERS?
Not all builders are created equal. Cost is dependent on experience, quality of materials used, whether they specialize in a certain aspect of construction, if they are a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) and whether they offer a guarantee. RB THOMAS LTD excels in all of these areas, but they do come at a cost. Think of it as the difference between a hatchback and a luxury performance SUV. You are paying more, but you are also getting a lot more, not just in the quality end product, but in the total experience as well as Guaranteed workmanship and materials.
DOES RB THOMAS LTD OFFER A GUARANTEE?
All aspects of workmanship are covered by the 10-year implied warranty as set out in the Building Act 2004. Please see consumerprotection.govt.nz for further information.
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On top of this, RB THOMAS LTD also works with NZCB to bring you the NZCB member exclusive Halo Guarantee. If you would like to know more click the link above.