We have compiled a list of our Top 15 Frequently Asked Questions to give you some insight into us, our build process and the value of sustainable construction before you begin.
However, if you still have questions, please contact us as we are happy to help and answer them.
What information do I need to provide my Builder to receive an accurate quote?
There are many factors that contribute to the cost of a project, especially when building unique and custom homes. These may include finishes, selected materials, site access as well as the technical nature of the project etc. As each project is quite specific in its requirements, they will be quoted individually. You can rest assured that the detailed quote provided will discuss all of these elements and we welcome the opportunity to discuss potential options that may benefit your project and budget.
In order for us to provide you with an accurate quote for your new project, it is best to offer as much detail as possible right from the beginning. If you have been working with an Architect or Draftsperson, they will have collated a ‘tender’ package for your Builder, which will include a full set of working drawings, engineering and specifications. If you are using our Design Team to manage your entire project, we will create these documents for you.
When quoting, we use a sophisticated software program that allows us to quantify the exact material needs for each individual project. We also liaise closely with our suppliers and sub-contractors for specific items, materials and components to ensure that all aspects of the quote are accurate and reflect correct material selections.
Therefore you can rest assured that when you receive our detailed quote that everything has been carefully taken into account, ensuring no surprises popping up down the track. And, if you are comparing our quote to another, you will have a clear indication of where our expenses have been allocated.
If you would like to request a quotation please click here and scroll down to submit information and your tender package.
What is the process for Designing & Building my new home?
Ultimately, when you engage with MLB for your project, we handle all of the complicated paperwork, provide you with clear and accurate communication and documents, and systematically walk you through until you are moved into your new home.
It’s meant to be an exciting experience, not a complicated one.
The general sequence of events
- An initial consultation with Michael and our design team should you require plans to be created or with your own Architect.
- Design and creation of working drawings, including engineering and specifications-this can take up to 6 month depending on the extent of the project and the complexity involved
- Quoting Process- approximately 4 weeks to complete a thorough cost analysis.
- Signing of Contracts and Deposit to secure project.
- Preliminaries -To be completed by MLB Team. Includes permits, site survey, soil test and all other relevant documentation
- Construction Stage.
- Frame-stage walk through with Michael and our leading sub-contractors.
- Handover
- 3 Month rectification follow-up
- Warranty.
Our Blog Article “The Building Process Demystified” offers a comprehensive overview from the very first steps, to required site preliminaries, payment stages, hand over completion and follow ups as does our Client Welcome Pack which is sent out to all new clients.
We have a great design checklist that you can download and use to collate your thoughts and ideas prior to our initial consultation.
Do you only build Sustainable Homes?
Our passion is sustainability and high performing homes.
When you understand the benefits of building in a manner that creates energy efficient, healthy and durable homes, crafting anything less goes against all of our principals and feels like it would be taking a step backward.
However, there are many aspects and degrees of sustainability that can be incorporated into a home, ranging from everyday simple inclusions like clotheslines and water tanks, to passive solar design, glazing, insulation and material selection, all the way to full Passive House Certification. Our aim is to match your philosophy and budget with the sustainable options that suit you and your home the best. So yes, we are passionate about and advocate for sustainably constructed homes, however we are guided by you to a certain level.
Are Passive Houses really worth it?
Ultimately, a ‘passive’ home is one that does not require additional sources of heating and cooling and maintains an optimal internal living environment without you having to do anything. A Passive Home is designed to be up to 90% more efficient in regards to internal heating and cooling than your typical Australian home. Life without energy bills is pretty appealing, one of our favorite feedback comments from recent clients was that their last Electricity bill for the entire Summer period was $5!
However, it isn’t just the financial costs that need to be considered when looking at the construction method of your home, but also the internal living environment and the quality and durability of the building itself. The airtight design and the provision of controlled fresh and filtered air from a balanced ventilation system, significantly reduces the airborne pollutants and pollens. Meaning that the air quality is far superior to a standard home. Another benefit resulting from the constant internal temperature is that mold, mildew and condensation do not form. No more weeping windows, or mold accumulating on window sills.
Lastly, the actual value of your home has been shown to increase when quality and sustainability are featured.
For further information regarding Passive House construction please head to Passive House Association Australia or alternatively, our video chat featured below addresses many of the common questions we get asked.
Why is it recommend involving the Builder from the beginning of the design and concept process?
We have found that sometimes the preconceived ideas and plans don’t quite meet the reality of the budget and occasionally there might be construction issues that do not get thoroughly identified until later into the quoting or construction process leading to financial and time expenditure.
Therefore by involving your Builder from the very beginning and throughout the design process we have found that many of these issues can be easily resolved, discussed and planned for in the initial stages, leading to a smoother and shorter build process in the long run and a design specifically tailored to your budget requirements.
What is the difference between MLB and other Builders?
At MLB, not only are we passionate about being an industry leader in Sustainable and High-Performance homes, we are also family run business with family values. Our core values both on site and off are focused around honesty, integrity, respect, safety and detail. We view our staff, sub-contractors and clients in the same manner.
As part of our values, we view new technology and the latest building practices to be paramount to a successful construction business, one that ensures we can provide the best service possible for our clients. Over the last decade we have carefully accumulated a skilled team of carpenters and sub-contractors whose work ethics and skills match our passion for sustainability, quality craftsmanship as well as knowledge of the latest materials and design concepts so that the final product we get to hand over is a truly high performing and functioning home that is built to last.
Clear communication is crucial for all aspects of a smooth building process, hence we have our own Client Portal which allows our clients to log in from any smart device and view their project. This portal is easy to use and includes features such as a daily log of site progress, regular photographs and a visible schedule as well as an easy means of communication between our MLB staff and sub-contractors. It’s a singular place where all people involved in the project can communicate and view the latest documents.
Michael is proud to be a founding member of Builders Declare Movement within Australia, which is an powerful sustainable initiative to create significant change and improvement within the Construction Industry. This movement is about the collaboration between all construction professionals and the sharing of knowledge in order to take construction to a new level necessary for the future.
We also have a “Trade Walk-Through” Day. This full day is where Michael and each leading trade guide our clients throughout their entire project at the completion of frame stage to discuss and finalize all of the finer details. Being able to walk through and experience the space we have found to be really beneficial and allows a much easier spatial awareness when considering elements like exact power point locations, pendant lights etc.
At MLB, clear and frequent communication is a cornerstone of our customer service. As mentioned previously, each client has their own project portal which allows access to all elements of the construction process, trades, selections, schedules etc.
Do you work with Architects or only MLB designs?
Whilst we do offer a comprehensive design process involving our design team featuring a Building Practitioner/Passive House Tradesperson, Architectural Designer and Interior Designer we also work closely with leading Architects throughout the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast, Geelong and Melbourne.
Where do you build?
Our main office is located at 23 Everist Rd, Ocean Grove and we build across the Bellarine Peninsula, The Surf Coast, The City of Greater Geelong and just beyond.
How long will my project take to build?
This will depend entirely on the scope of the project, however the estimated length of build time will be stated within your contract and our client portal allows you to view your individual project schedule so that you can watch your home tracking along.
Do you include Landscaping?
If you would like Landscaping to be included in your project we work with several talented, local Landscape Architects, Designers and Gardeners and will happily coordinate this for you.
I’d like a little more help with Exterior & Interior Designs, what do you recommend?
Rest assured that our experienced team, including our Building Designer and Interior Designer are available to assist with all of your selections. We have a range of samples and colour palettes for viewing in our meeting room and can arrange for specific joint consultations with our Cabinetry, Tiling, Lighting, Plumbing & Electrical Suppliers