Owner Builder vs Licensed Builder: How to Choose the Right Option for Your Project

If you’re considering building, extending or renovating your home, one of the first big questions you’ll have to ask is whether to act as an owner builder or hire a licensed builder. As building or renovating your space is arguably one of the largest investments you can make, making the right decision for your project is a must. 

Whether you opt for an owner builder or you hire a licensed professionalism, there are risks, benefits and financial considerations with both. Choosing the right option for you largely depends on your budget, your experience and how complex your particular project is. 

This is our guide to how to choose the right option for your build, and everything you need to know to make an informed decision that works best for your project. 

First, What Is An Owner Builder? 

In short, an owner builder is a homeowner that decides to manage and oversee their own home construction project rather than hiring a company to coordinate the work. The owner builder then directly liaises with tradespeople, buys materials and makes sure they comply with local regulations rather than having those aspects handled by a professional team. 

Whilst it can seem like the better option at a glance due to potential cost savings, it can very quickly become incredibly stressful for the owner to manage. Suddenly, all planning, scheduling, quality control and complete responsibility rests on the owner. This doesn’t just include the actual build either, you’ll have to manage every aspect including permits, contracts and site safety all while managing trades which can become incredibly difficult for owners who don’t have previous construction experience. 

So What Do Licensed Builders Do?

A licensed builder is a qualified professional that manages residential construction projects. These individuals take full responsibility for the entire construction process taking some of the stress out of your home build or renovation projects. 

When you work with a licensed builder in Melbourne, you get access to a specialist who has industry expertise, the best suppliers and project management systems that make sure you’re staying within budget. Licensed builders are also insured so that you have an added layer of protection during your project. 

 What Are The Key Differences Between Each?

Now that you know exactly what an owner builder and what a licensed builder does, it’s time to have a look at the key differences between each service. These are the factors you should be considering when trying to decide on the best option for your home. 

Compliance

As an owner builder, you are the sole person legally responsible for making sure compliance and regulations are adhered to at all times. If you don’t manage this properly, or if certain things slip through the cracks you leave yourself an option to fines and delays in your project. 

Licensed builders on the other hand make sure that all work complies with your local regulations. This is key, especially in Melbourne, to make sure you’re abiding by council rules and ensuring you don’t get hit with costly fines throughout your build. 

Project Management

If you choose to work as an owner builder, it’s important to consider how much time you will spend managing your project. From sourcing materials, hiring trades and addressing unexpected issues a lot of time can be chewed up when you’re managing your project yourself. 

Instead, licensed builders who have done projects like yours before have an added layer of project management expertise. This can be particularly important if you’re undertaking quite a large project, like a new build, as custom home builders Melbourne have the expertise to manage time properly and reduce delays. 

Costs

Cost is probably the number one reason owners choose to act as an owner builder rather than hiring a professional. But whilst you might save on labour, working with licensed builders can allow you to access cheaper products from suppliers and reduce the likelihood of fines from non-compliance. 

When Might Being An Owner Builder Be The Best Bet?

Acting as an owner builder might be best if: 

• You work in construction or have previous experience in the field. 
• Your project is small or relatively straightforward. 
• You have the time to manage trades and paperwork. 
• You’re prepared to accept the risks involved. 

When Should You Work WIth A Licensed Builder?

You should work with a licensed builder if you’re considering the following: 

• Your project is complex or requires structural changes. 
• You want to extend your property (this type of task definitely calls for a team of professional home extension builders). 
• You’re time poor. 
• You don’t have previous experience in construction. 
• You’re not well versed in the legal and council requirements for builds in your area. 

Choose Second2None As Your Licensed Builder

When you are trying to decide between an owner builder or a licensed builder, it really comes down to your experience level. If you’re looking for complete peace of mind throughout the entire process, working with the Second2None team could be the perfect solution. 

With our team at your side, we can help you create your dream space without adding any extra stress or pressure to your day-to-day life. To check out our previous work, explore our range of before and after photos online today.