FAQ

  • What is a Bill of Quantities (BOQ) and why do I need one?

    A Bill of Quantities (BOQ) is a detailed breakdown of all the materials, labour, and resources needed to deliver a project, measured directly from the drawings and specifications. Having a BOQ ensures that all contractors are pricing the exact same scope of work, rather than making assumptions or leaving items out. This creates a fair and transparent tendering process, reduces disputes over “what was included,” and helps clients avoid hidden costs or budget blowouts. For subcontractors, a BOQ also reduces the risk of under-quoting and losing margin during delivery.

  • How does a Dilapidation (DELAP) Report protect me?

    A Dilapidation (DELAP) Report provides a photographic and written record of the condition of a property before nearby construction, excavation, or infrastructure works take place. It documents any existing cracks, defects, or wear and tear in detail. If damage appears during or after neighboring works, you have a defensible record to prove whether it was pre-existing or caused by the new activity. This protects homeowners, businesses, and strata committees from being held liable for damage they didn’t cause, and provides a clear basis for resolving disputes quickly.

  • How can independent cost planning save me money?

    Independent cost planning is about creating a realistic financial roadmap before works begin. We break down project costs into clear categories, labour, materials, plant, and allowances and compare them against market benchmarks. This process highlights inflated line items, vague allowances, and potential gaps in scope that could lead to costly variations later. By providing clarity early, cost planning gives you stronger ground for negotiating with contractors, helps avoid budget overruns, and ensures financial decisions are based on real data rather than assumptions.

  • Why should I have contract terms reviewed before signing?

    Many contracts hide risks in their fine print from extended payment cycles and “pay when paid” clauses, to strict retention conditions, liquidated damages, or vague scope descriptions. These risks can directly impact your cash flow, timeline, and exposure to penalties. A contract review translates the legal and technical language into plain English, highlighting what obligations you’re taking on and where the risks lie. By addressing these before signing, you can negotiate fairer conditions, strengthen your position, and avoid disputes that often arise from unclear or one-sided terms.

  • Can you help me compare contractor quotes and spot hidden costs?

    Yes. When you receive multiple quotes, it’s common for each contractor to structure them differently, making it hard to compare “apples with apples.” We carry out independent Quote & Scope Reviews to check exactly what’s included and excluded. This process identifies vague descriptions, missing line items, or “provisional sums” that could later become expensive variations. By providing a clear, side-by-side comparison, we give you the confidence to select a contractor based on transparency and value, not just the lowest number on the page.

  • How do progress and quality assurance (QA) reports protect clients?

    Independent progress and QA reports provide an unbiased record of how works are advancing on site. These reports link actual progress to payment milestones, confirm whether workmanship appears consistent with scope and industry standards, and highlight potential risks or defects before they escalate. By documenting progress with photos and commentary, clients, including homeowners, strata committees, and commercial operators, can verify that they’re only paying for completed, documented work. This protects budgets, keeps contractors accountable, and provides a clear audit trail for dispute resolution if needed.