What

Every successful project begins with a strong foundation. Our Questionnaire is an essential tool designed to understand your vision, needs, expectations, timeline, and budget. Think of it as a dating profile — we're both deciding if we're the right fit for each other.

How it works

Complete the online questionnaire covering your proposed project details — from when you'd like to build, to why you want to build, to how much you'd like to spend. Our team reviews your responses and determines project feasibility. If we're the right fit, we schedule a consultation. If not, we'll refer you to someone more suitable.

Why it matters

We Understand You — your ideas, your vision, and what this home means to you. It drives Efficiency by knowing your preferences upfront, streamlining the entire planning and building process. It provides Risk Mitigation — selecting the right builder from day one is the key to success.

Your action

Complete the questionnaire thoroughly and honestly.

What

Every successful relationship starts with a successful first date. Building a house is like entering a relationship with your builder — we'll work hand in hand for 12–24 months. The initial consultation is about relationship workability rather than the home itself.

How it works

During this session, we get to know each other on a personal level before diving into your proposed Forever Home. We review your Questionnaire responses, discuss what this home means to you, why you're building it, and your expectations. We then provide further insight into the next steps of our Forever Home Process. A consultation fee of $375 + GST applies, paid directly to Zanetto Builders. You'll receive a payment link via SMS once booked.

Why it matters

Alignment — ensures both parties are on the same page. Trust and Mutual Respect — open and honest communication from day one. Confidence — discussing your project in detail gives you the assurance that you've chosen the right partner.

Your action

Attend the consultation with an open mind and any questions you have about the process.

What

Every Forever Home needs a great designer. At this stage, we determine whether you already have a designer or architect on board, or whether you need help finding one. Either way, we ensure the right creative partner is working alongside you and Zanetto Builders from the earliest possible stage.

How it works

If you already have a designer or architect, Zanetto Builders can begin working alongside them immediately using the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) agreement outlined in Step 04. If you don't yet have a designer, Zanetto Builders has a portfolio of architects and designers that we can recommend based on your specific needs — including client fit, design style, project complexity, and budget. The earlier the builder-designer relationship is established, the better the outcome for your project.

Why it matters

The relationship between your builder and your designer is one of the most critical success factors in residential construction. When the builder is involved in design from the start, decisions are made with buildability and budget in mind — not just aesthetics. This prevents the all-too-common scenario of finishing plans only to discover the build is significantly over budget.

Your action

Let us know whether you have a designer in place or would like a recommendation.

What

ECI allows Zanetto Builders to be actively involved during the design phase, providing construction expertise alongside your designer. We call this the 'ABC' success relationship — Architect/Designer, Builder, Client — all three involved from the very beginning.

How it works

We engage on an hourly basis ($150 + GST/hr in 15-minute increments) to consult on your design, provide buildability advice, and help manage your budget during the design process. We join meetings with your designer, review and comment on design options, track time and log hours clearly, and recommend build-friendly materials and methods. All hours are cost-tracked through our project management platform Wunderbuild and invoiced at the end of each month with a 7-day payment period.

Why it matters

Budget Management — builder and designer work towards a set budget with years of combined experience, preventing budget blowouts. Peace of Mind — knowing what to expect at each stage reduces stress. Timeline Transparency — the proposal includes a project timeline so your builder can pre-schedule the build.

Your action

Participate actively in design meetings. Share your thoughts, ask questions, and provide feedback throughout.

What

The QBE is a breakdown of your project's expected costs based on your concept plans. It's not a contract, but a solid foundation to see if your dream lines up with your budget. We break every project down into three core components: The Labour, The Materials, and The Subcontractors.

How it works

A fee of $750 + GST applies. We make database-driven decisions based on every home that Zanetto Builders has estimated, costed, and back-costed to provide our best and most accurate allowance for each line item. The accuracy of the QBE is based on the plans provided — the earlier we are in concept and the less documentation available, the greater the variance. Delivered within seven days of invoice payment via a one-hour online delivery consultation.

Why it matters

Confidence — knowing estimated costs upfront eliminates financial uncertainty. Decision-Making — helps you make informed choices about design elements, materials, and finishes. Project Feasibility — ensures the project is financially viable before proceeding further.

Your action

Review the QBE carefully and ask questions about any items you don't understand.

What

The LOE outlines our working relationship, including a mutual non-compete clause. It gives you confidence that we're on the same team, with clear next steps and responsibilities. It serves as a binding agreement that safeguards the interests of both parties.

How it works

Once drafted, we share it with you electronically for review. You'll sign this after the QBE meeting to progress to detailed costing. Read it carefully, ask any questions, and once satisfied, sign the EDOC sent to your email.

Why it matters

Commitment — signing signifies a mutual commitment to the project. Transparency — both parties have a clear understanding of what is expected. Accountability — defined roles and responsibilities deliver a smoother and more successful project.

Your action

Read the Letter of Engagement thoroughly and come prepared with any questions.

What

If your QBE reveals a gap between your design aspirations and your budget, this stage is where we work collaboratively to align the two. We use value-management strategies to optimise your design without compromising your vision.

How it works

We review every element of the estimate and identify opportunities to reduce costs — alternative materials, design simplifications, scope adjustments — always in consultation with you. Once the budget is approved, we send an FBE Fee Guide to educate you on the final build cost and inclusions.

Why it matters

This stage prevents the all-too-common scenario of spending months on plans only to discover the build is $300,000+ over budget. Proactive alignment saves you time, money, and heartache.

Your action

Be open to alternatives. Prioritise your must-haves versus nice-to-haves.

What

The FBE is your final pre-contract estimate and the most comprehensive financial document you'll receive. At Zanetto Builders, we work exclusively in open book pricing because we believe trust is built through transparency. You will see every cost — labour, materials, subcontractors, allowances, and margins — laid out clearly. This is your financial blueprint — our Signature 100-point estimate.

How it works

A fee proposal is provided based on the QBE median price. Estimated delivery: 4–8 weeks depending on project scale. We may issue Requests for Information (RFI) to clarify details. We strongly recommend an interior designer for selections. Once revision one is complete, a dedicated meeting walks you through every line item — open book, no surprises. Further revisions continue until the final document meets your expectations.

Why it matters

Financial Clarity — no surprises, you'll know exactly what costs to expect and why. Open Book Trust — you see every dollar, every allowance, every margin. This level of transparency is rare in the building industry and it's what sets us apart. Budget Alignment — we revise inclusions to ensure the project meets your budget.

Your action

Review the estimate carefully. Ask questions. Make sure you're comfortable with the financial commitment.

What

Before we dive into the details of your contract, it's important to understand that there are two ways a building contract can be managed. At Zanetto Builders, we operate under two contract administration models: Builder-Administered (Master Builders Tasmania) and Architect-Administered (ABIC).

How it works

Option 1 — Builder-Administered Contract (Master Builders Tasmania): We use the DB5 contract for Fixed Price or CP5 for Cost-Plus. These contracts are prepared by Master Builders Tasmania and designed for residential building work. Option 2 — Architect-Administered Contract (ABIC): When a third-party architect is administering the contract. ABIC contracts are jointly published by the Australian Institute of Architects and Master Builders Australia.

Why it matters

Understanding who administers your contract is fundamental to understanding how your build will be managed day-to-day. Both models are robust, legally compliant, and designed to protect the interests of both parties.

Your action

Confirm with your PM which contract model applies to your project.

What

A Fixed Price (Lump Sum) Building Contract means the builder agrees to complete the defined scope of works for a set contract price. When Zanetto Builders administers this contract, it is the Master Builders Tasmania DB5 contract.

How it works

The price is locked based on your approved plans, specifications, and agreed allowances at contract signing. If you don't change anything, your price doesn't change. If you DO want to change something, that's a variation — it gets quoted, you approve it in writing, and the contract price adjusts. Progress claims are issued at defined construction stages as per the Master Builders Tasmania contract.

Why it matters

The #1 benefit is certainty. You know what your home will cost before construction starts. The trade-off is less flexibility — every change requires a formal variation with associated costs and potential time extensions.

Your action

Ask yourself: Do I value cost certainty over flexibility? Am I confident my plans and selections are close to final?

What

A Cost-Plus Building Contract means you pay the actual cost of everything (labour, materials, subcontractors, permits, expenses) plus an agreed builder's margin or fee. When Zanetto Builders administers this contract, it is the Master Builders Tasmania CP5 contract.

How it works

The CP5 contract provides an Estimated Contract Sum — this is an indicative price, NOT a guaranteed final cost. Every dollar spent on your project is tracked and visible through our open-book accounting system. The builder's Cost-Plus Fee is stated as either a percentage rate or a fixed fee. Your 5% deposit is refundable upon completion on a Cost-Plus contract.

Why it matters

The #1 benefit is transparency and flexibility. You can refine your design, upgrade selections, and adjust scope throughout the build without the rigidity of a fixed price. You see exactly where every dollar goes.

Your action

Ask yourself: Do I value flexibility and full visibility over a locked-in price?

What

PC and PS allowances are the two items in a building contract that cause the most confusion — and the most disputes. A PC (Prime Cost) Allowance is a placeholder budget for something you'll select later. A PS (Provisional Sum) Allowance is an estimate for work where the scope or site conditions aren't fully known.

How it works

PC Allowances cover the supply cost of the item only (including GST) — NOT installation, labour, builder's margin, delivery. Once you select your actual item, the contract price adjusts. PS Allowances may include labour, materials, plant, subcontractor costs, GST, and builder's margin. Once the work is completed, the PS adjusts to reflect actual cost.

Why it matters

PC and PS items are NOT fixed prices — they are estimates. They exist to give you flexibility (PC) or to account for unknowns (PS). Understanding this upfront means you won't be caught off guard when adjustments happen.

Your action

Review every PC and PS item in your contract. Start making selections early to lock in actual costs.

What

Specifications form part of your contract documents. They are the detailed written description of exactly what will be built and how. The plans show WHERE things go — the specifications tell you WHAT materials, WHAT products, WHAT quality standards, WHAT finishes, and HOW things get installed.

How it works

Your specifications cover descriptions of materials and products, brand names or performance requirements, standards of workmanship, finishes and colours, construction methods and installation requirements, and relevant Australian Standards. Any change to the specifications after contract signing is treated as a variation.

Why it matters

The specifications are your insurance policy for quality. They lock in exactly what you're getting. Without clear specifications, there's room for misunderstanding about materials, finishes, and standards.

Your action

Read your specifications carefully. If a brand or product is listed, make sure it's what you actually want.

What

A variation is any change to the original contract — plans, specifications, selections, scope, or site conditions. An Extension of Time (EOT) is a formal notification that the build timeline has been extended due to weather, your changes, supply delays, or other causes outside the builder's control.

How it works

You request a change → We assess the impact on cost and time → We provide a written quote → You approve or decline in writing via Wunderbuild → If approved, the work proceeds and the contract price adjusts. ALL variation requests must be in writing via Wunderbuild. An administration fee applies to all variation requests. If a variation causes delay, it may trigger an Extension of Time.

Why it matters

Variations and EOTs are where most building disputes start. We explain all of this upfront so there are zero surprises. The 48-hour response window is critical — delayed decisions cascade through the entire schedule.

Your action

Respond to variations within 48 hours. Never instruct subcontractors directly — all requests go through your PM.

What

Every proposal includes terms, conditions, and exclusions. We know most people skip the fine print — so we're going to walk you through every single point in language anyone can understand.

How it works

Invoicing: Your payment schedule is set out at contract stage. Payments are due within 7 days. If a payment becomes overdue, the builder can pause works. Exclusions — things NOT included (unless specifically stated): council fees, design services, engineering inspections, building certification costs, electrical/gas service relocation, dewatering, traffic control, and unscheduled meetings.

Why it matters

Exclusions are the #1 source of 'surprise costs' in building. If something is excluded, it doesn't mean it won't be needed — it means it's YOUR responsibility to arrange and pay for separately.

Your action

Read every exclusion. If you're unsure whether something is included, ask before you sign.

What

Construction has its own language and its own set of 'what-if' scenarios that every homeowner worries about. This step breaks down the most common questions and terms so you're never left confused.

How it works

Common scenarios: What if we find rock or bad soil? A variation is issued. What if we find rot or termite damage? A quote is provided. Do I need a contingency? YES — always recommended. When do I make selections? Ideally before signing contracts. Will you need driveway access? Yes. Who pays water/power during construction? You do. What are latent conditions? Hidden problems that can't be seen during normal inspection.

Why it matters

The more you understand before construction starts, the fewer surprises you'll face during it. Being prepared is the difference between a stressful build and a smooth one.

Your action

Read through every scenario. If any apply to your project, discuss them with your PM before signing.

What

Your building contract includes defined construction stages, each triggering a progress payment. The number of stages is customised to your project — ranging from 6 stages for smaller projects to 18 stages for large-scale builds. Payments are due within 7 days of invoice.

How it works

Typical stages: Demolition, Footings, Foundation, Frame & Trusses, Wall Wrap & Glazing, Insulation, Plastering, External Cladding, Joinery Installation, Tiling, Practical Completion. For Cost-Plus contracts, progress claims are issued regularly and reflect actual costs incurred plus the builder's margin.

Why it matters

Understanding exactly what triggers each payment removes ambiguity and prevents disputes. You'll know precisely what work should be complete before each invoice is issued.

Your action

Familiarise yourself with the stage definitions for YOUR specific contract.

What

Every home experiences natural material behaviour and construction tolerances. The Guide to Standards and Tolerances is the industry benchmark that defines what is acceptable and what constitutes a defect.

How it works

Key areas: Concrete — minor shrinkage cracking is normal. Timber — tannin leaching is cosmetic, not structural. Settlement — silicone joins and joinery may shift slightly in the first 12 months. Grout — may discolour over time. Cladding — is a rainscreen system designed to manage water. All tolerances are measured against the published industry guide.

Why it matters

Managing expectations is critical to satisfaction. Knowing what is considered normal versus defective empowers you to make informed assessments at practical completion.

Your action

Read the Guide to Standards and Tolerances. Ask questions about anything you don't understand.

What

We do contracts differently. We schedule a dedicated meeting to discuss the Success Agreement and provide a comprehensive Contract Education Session. A draft contract is presented for your review alongside educational modules.

How it works

This interactive session covers: Variations, Extensions of Time, Prime Cost allowances, Provisional Sum allowances, progress payment stages, your contract type, specifications, exclusions, terms and conditions, and your rights and obligations under the contract.

Why it matters

Informed Decision-Making — empowers you to make decisions based on a deep understanding. Transparency — all terms are clear, understood, and agreed upon. Confidence — knowing what every clause means gives you confidence to proceed.

Your action

Come prepared with questions. Engage actively. This is your opportunity to truly understand what you're agreeing to.

What

You'll receive a document outlining the foundations of our relationship. The pillars listed are two-way commitments ensuring a successful relationship built on open communication.

How it works

We schedule a meeting to go over the Success Agreement in detail. This is your opportunity to clarify any points and ask questions. Once both parties are happy with our 'vows,' the agreement is signed.

Why it matters

Alignment — ensures both builder and client are on the same page. Accountability — outlines what is expected from both parties. Peace of Mind — a signed agreement means there's a structured plan backed by mutual commitment.

Your action

Read the Success Agreement thoroughly. Come prepared with any questions or concerns.

What

A building contract is a two-way street. Both parties have clearly defined responsibilities. Understanding exactly who is responsible for what prevents confusion, finger-pointing, and delays.

How it works

Zanetto Builders is responsible for: all construction works per approved plans, compliance with Building Code and Standards, WHS management, prompt notification of changes. YOU are responsible for: providing site access, following site safety policies, making timely selections via Wunderbuild, responding promptly to requests, paying progress claims within 7 days.

Why it matters

When both parties know their role and deliver on it, the project runs smoothly. When responsibilities aren't clear, delays, disputes, and frustration follow.

Your action

Review both lists. Make sure you can commit to your responsibilities — especially timely selections, prompt responses, and on-time payments.

What

We routinely photograph and video our projects for record-keeping, inspection purposes, and marketing. This consent form allows you to choose how (or if) your project is used in our public materials.

How it works

You can choose to: opt into photography and content sharing, opt out entirely, approve use for awards submissions only, approve social media but not print, or request review-before-publish. Your address is never disclosed in marketing materials.

Why it matters

Your privacy matters. But sharing your Forever Home story can also inspire others and celebrate your achievement. We want you to feel in control.

Your action

Review and sign the consent form. Choose the option that suits you.

What

This is it. We arrange a formal setting where you can take your time to read through the final contract. Once comfortable, we complete the meeting and send an electronic copy through the Master Builders Tasmania portal (EDOCS).

How it works

The contract is reviewed in person at our Contract & Proposal Q&A meeting. Signing is completed electronically through EDOCS. All supporting documents should be signed: Success Agreement, Site Access Agreement, Safety Induction, Social Media Consent, and Standards & Tolerances acknowledgement.

Why it matters

Legal Assurance — the signed contract protects the interests of both parties. Transparency — all terms are finalised and understood. You've been educated, you've asked your questions, and now you're signing with full knowledge.

Your action

CELEBRATE! This is the start of a new and exciting adventure!

What

Once you've signed the contract, you'll receive an invoice for a deposit of 5% of the total contract value. This deposit secures your project's place in our construction schedule. On a Cost-Plus contract, the 5% deposit is refundable upon completion. On a Fixed Price contract, the 5% deposit is retained.

How it works

You'll receive the deposit invoice via email. IMPORTANT: Due to increasing risk of cyber fraud, if you receive an email with new bank account details, please confirm by telephone before transferring funds. Before scheduling: payment of the 5% deposit, proof of land ownership, written confirmation from your lender that funds are available, and completed contract signing.

Why it matters

Project Security — your deposit locks in your project. Resource Allocation — allows us to allocate necessary resources and materials specifically for your project.

Your action

Review the invoice carefully. Verify bank details by phone. Arrange proof of land ownership and lender confirmation.

What

A formal handover occurs between our Director and your assigned Project Manager. You'll meet directly with our Director, setting the tone for collaboration. Your PM becomes your primary contact.

How it works

The handover meeting introduces your PM and site team (Lead Carpenter, Apprentice, Office Admin). A construction schedule with key dates and milestones is built out. Your project is created in Wunderbuild and all documentation is transferred. A kickoff email is sent with PM intro and timelines.

Why it matters

Leadership involvement from day one builds accountability. A structured team provides continuity, experience, and personal attention. You're not just another job — we're invested in your outcome.

Your action

Attend the on-site handover meeting. Get to know your PM and ask any initial questions.

What

Wunderbuild is your home's central command centre — a cloud-based project management platform giving you live visibility into the entire construction process, 24/7.

How it works

You'll receive a personal login to access: weekly site diaries with photos, stage payment schedules, variation requests with approval workflows, Extension of Time notifications, selection progress tracking, forecast completion dates, real-time schedule, and built-in messaging with your PM. Every Friday, your PM uploads a weekly summary.

Why it matters

Transparency is key to building trust. All communication is archived for easy reference. No lost emails, no miscommunication. You're always in the loop.

Your action

Download the Wunderbuild app. Use it as your primary communication channel. Check weekly updates every Friday.

What

The Start Work Notice is notification to Council that work has started. Signing it triggers: Zanetto Builders takes possession of the site, contract work days commence, insurance takes effect, and all safety measures are activated.

How it works

Site establishment includes temporary fencing, amenities, signage, storage, security, and neighbour engagement. Site standards cover presentation, noise control, access/egress, and working hours.

Why it matters

Proper site establishment protects your property, ensures WHS compliance, and sets the standard for a professional, organised build from day one.

Your action

Ensure the site is accessible and clear. Complete your safety induction at first visit.

What

Construction flows through defined stages — each inspected, documented, and invoiced. You may notice periods when it appears nothing is happening on site. During these periods, we're still coordinating behind the scenes.

How it works

Typical flow: Site Prep & Foundations → Frame Up & Roofing → Lock-Up → Rough-ins → Internal Works → Finishing Touches → Final Inspection & Handover. Progress payments are invoiced at the end of each calendar month. You'll get updates at every major stage inside Wunderbuild.

Why it matters

Structured stages provide predictability and accountability. You know what to expect and when. The schedule holds us accountable for delivering on our promises.

Your action

Review progress claims promptly. Coordinate bank inspections in advance if applicable.

What

All client-chosen items (tiles, tapware, door handles, paint colours, joinery finishes, lighting, appliances) must be finalised according to strict deadlines tied to the critical path.

How it works

Key deadlines: Plumbing fixtures — before slab pour. Tiles & layouts — during pre-construction. Joinery — signed off 12–15 weeks before installation. Imported items — deposits submitted prior to base stage. We strongly recommend engaging an interior designer.

Why it matters

Late selections cause cascading delays. Every week a decision is delayed can push your handover date and add ongoing site costs (scaffolding, fencing, toilet hire, container hire, security).

Your action

Make selections on time. Factor in lead times for imported/custom products.

What

Throughout construction, financial changes can occur through variations, allowance adjustments, and scope modifications. Transparent financial tracking is maintained through Wunderbuild.

How it works

All costs tracked in Wunderbuild with full visibility. Variation summaries included with each progress claim. PC and PS reconciliation is ongoing. We recommend a contingency of 3–5% (up to 10% for bespoke builds). Late payments (10+ days overdue) incur interest at the nominated contract rate.

Why it matters

Financial clarity prevents disputes. When you can see exactly where every dollar is going, trust is maintained and the partnership stays strong.

Your action

Review financial summaries at each stage. Maintain your contingency. Pay invoices promptly.

What

A collaborative Completion Inspection & Homeowner Orientation walks through your entire home to confirm quality, identify any defects, and demonstrate every feature, system, and maintenance requirement.

How it works

Two purposes: confirm delivery at the quality level described in our documents with all selections correctly installed, and demonstrate features, discuss use and maintenance. Defects are categorised as non-structural or structural and documented in a mutually signed defects list.

Why it matters

Complete transparency about the condition of your home at handover. A documented, mutually agreed defect list protects both parties.

Your action

Attend the inspection. Take your time. Note any concerns.

What

Practical Completion means the works are complete except for minor omissions and defects that don't prevent habitation. A formal Notice of Practical Completion is issued. The Building Surveyor issues the Occupancy Permit — required before you move in.

How it works

Notice signifies end of contract days. Insurance transfers to you. Final invoice released. Generally 2–4 weeks from PC to Handover: bank inspection/valuation, defect remedy, professional clean.

Why it matters

Practical Completion is a legally defined milestone triggering final payment, insurance transfer, and warranty commencement.

Your action

Pay the final invoice promptly. Arrange your own home insurance from the date of Practical Completion.

What

Handover is the final milestone — and a celebration. We walk you through your completed home, provide instructions for every system and appliance, deliver a comprehensive handover manual with all warranties and supplier contacts.

How it works

Conditional on: Occupancy Permit received, final payment cleared (including all variations, PC/PS reconciliations), all contracted works complete. You'll receive: keys, handover manual, product warranties, maintenance documents, and supplier/trades contact details.

Why it matters

This is more than a handover — it's the beginning of living your dream. Once you have your keys, you can move in and love living in your Zanetto Builders Forever Home.

Your action

Ensure all payments are cleared. Receive your keys. CELEBRATE!

What

Minor defects or omissions found outside acceptable standards must be recorded and agreed. The builder must fix them as soon as possible, no later than six months after the defects document is received.

How it works

Standards measured against the Guide to Standards and Tolerances. Continue communicating with your builder. All defect rectification is coordinated through your PM.

Why it matters

A structured approach ensures genuine defects are addressed fairly and promptly while distinguishing them from normal material behaviour.

Your action

Document any defects. Communicate promptly. Provide access for rectification works.

What

Building warranties last six years from practical completion and transfer to new owners if the property is sold. We schedule two standard warranty check-ins: 3 months and 11 months after handover.

How it works

We supply all product warranties, maintenance/usage documents, and a home care guide. Post-handover, you can still contact your PM or Supervisor. We also provide an online maintenance request form for ongoing support.

Why it matters

Your Forever Home is built to last — and so is our commitment to you. Scheduled check-ins ensure any settlement issues are identified and addressed.

Your action

Maintain your home as advised. Keep gutters clean, follow manufacturer guidelines, re-stain timber on schedule. Report concerns promptly.