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Date Published : Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Frustrated builders are barring property buyers from the site of their future homes because of increasing instances of interference and "back seat" building, it has been reported.
News.com.au says many contractors have taken the "hardline approach" because of a rise in homebuyers turning up on site and issuing instructions to tradesmen and subcontractors without their knowledge or permission.
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) told the website it is a serious issue as such actions could result in delays to the project and can ultimately lead to "chaos" on site.
Construction manager Barry Milne of Henley told the site that any alterations or variations in building plans have to be submitted in writing and approved by the builder, so the buyer can be properly charged and subcontractors can be paid for carrying out the work.
Robert Harding, the HIA's acting executive director, said more of his organisation's members have reported experiencing the hands-on approach from buyers, with some apparently under the impression that securing a home loan grants them a direct role in the construction process.
However, Mr Harding said technically speaking, builders have possession of a site until the property is completed and formally handed over. They are therefore entitled to halt work if anyone is on with without permission.
"Most builders are happy for the owner to engage in the process, but not just to turn up unannounced and wander over the site," he commented.
Official figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, cited by Bloomberg, show the number of home loans approved for new houses declined in April by three per cent.
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