How much does it cost to hire a builder? 2024 cost guide

Builders are normally hired for longer-term projects that usually involve a higher cost than many other jobs. Whether you’re building a new house from scratch, planning a renovation or an extension, there’s more involved than you may think.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Builder?

A builder’s hourly rate can vary from $85 - $150 per hour. Builders constructing new homes can charge as much as $160 per hour, whereas, renovation or extension work usually costs around $85 an hour. Builder prices may vary depending on your location, the nature of work, and the type of building services you may require. The prices also vary if you want to build a new house or renovate your current house.

Whether you want to know the cost of building a house, the price of a home renovation, or how much to pay for a house and land package, getting multiple options is important. Get 3 free quotes from local and experienced builders. If you are looking to renovate your home, research hiring trades such as plumbers, electricians, and painters. Also consider aspects like walls and floors, woodworks, fit-outs, and furniture, which will influence the final cost.

Types of Building Services

• New homes
• Extensions
• Granny flats
• Renovations
• Additions
• Second-level house extensions

Building contractors can help you pull together a complete home within a pre-determined time frame. They work with other subcontractors to determine a quote for your project. Most builders have their very own team of workers and charge on an hourly basis. In general, the team would be a group of carpenters, masons, and plumbers.

Types of Builder Costs

When it comes to ‘how much does it cost to hire a builder, you should take into consideration three factors. This includes labour costs, fixed charges, and the amount required for resources (materials).

Average Cost of Building a Home

The cost of building is influenced by many factors, though the Australian average is approximately $1393.55 per sqm, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). However, this figure doesn’t include design, planning permits, any site works, or any cost blow-outs. According to ABS Buildings Approvals data, the average dwelling in Australia spans 248 sqm, which puts the cost for the build portion on average at $323,000.

Fixed Charges

As suggested by its name, ‘fixed charges’ represent the amount that you should pay. These charges remain the same for all customers. As you bid on a builder, you will be asked to pay their fixed charges. The fixed charges are dependent on the location, project, and season. This includes general site preparation costs between $5,000 and $70,000. On the lower end of the spectrum, you have medium-sized buildings on flat blocks in more developed parts of the country. On the other hand, the higher end of the range features sloping block building sites and large elaborate designs.

Variable Costs 

Secondly, you should be aware of the materials and time charges. As the scope of your project increases, the price of materials and time will increase. Once again, the time and materials required depend on your project. On average, you can hire a digger and operator for between $200 - $600 per day. The average total cost for a site cut is around $1200 - $4000 depending on the project.

Unexpected Costs

So, how do builders work when an unexpected event occurs? To begin with, the builder drafts a change order. They list all of the materials, additional work and price changes required to complete the job. Even if the builder has a low quote on the original contract, these changes can increase your budget. This is why you should stay in close contact with your builder. Make sure that you know how the builder works and fixes his rates.

Things to check before you hire a builder

The Cost

The actual cost depends on the size and scale of your project and it can range between 5 - 25% of your property’s worth. Builders constructing new homes can charge as much as $160 per hour, whereas, renovation or extension work usually costs around $85 an hour. The prices above are just a guide and subject to the time the article was made, if you want an accurate and up-to-date price, get up to 3 quotes from local builders.

Licence and Insurance

As you plan your home building project, make sure to verify the credentials of your builder and his crew. Licensing requirements differ from state to state. Check if the builder’s licence number and insurance are valid and up-to-date before commencing the construction. At Service.com.au we verify businesses in order to assist our clients so that they can see which builder has been recommended.

Customer Feedback

Experienced builders have a long list of satisfied clients. Before hiring, ask your builder about their previous projects to check for customer references to get reliable feedback. If they recommend the same builder you are looking to hire, they may be the most suitable option. Hire a builder that respects your timeline and budget requirements. Ask for assistance to help maximise your finances.

Right Type of Builder

It is recommended to hire a builder based on their expertise. If you are building a granny flat, you might want to consider hiring a builder that specialises in granny flat construction. Also, if you want to refurbish or renovate your home and not build a new one, it is more practical to hire a home renovator. 

Further Reading

• House Moving Checklist for Your Next Move
• 5 Substantial Costs to Consider When Buying an Established Home
• 5 Smart Tips for Buying Your First Home in a Rising Market
• How to Hire the Best Carpenter Near You