When comparing a G.J. Gardner home with a kitset offer, you will nearly always find that we offer superior value when all factors are taken into consideration. If you are thinking about buying a kitset home because it appears to be cheaper, you should first take into consideration the following issues before making any firm decisions.
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- Liability:
- With a kitset home you are responsible to ensure the home meets council and building code requirements and that it will continue to perform according to the building code requirements for up to 10 years, even when the home is sold to another owner.
- You are responsible for all aspects of the site including Health and Safety of all staff and contractors.
- Risk:
- You will need to manage the entire project including the contracting out of sub trades including building, plumbing, electrical work, bricklaying, plastering etc.
- The responsibility for contractors performance and ensuring the quality of their workmanship meets building code standards will rest with you.
- Budget:
- The price of a kitset home may not include earthworks, building consents, connection to services such as sewers, drainage etc, and many other component parts of the building. Make sure you check to be certain of what is included.
- Quotes for kitset homes may also include Provisional Sum amounts (PS sums) for some aspects of the building. As with any build, be sure to check that these amounts are realistic.
- Potential finance challenges - Getting progress payments from banks may be a Because the home is built off-site, many banks will not lend money for the build phase and often will require larger home loan deposits.
- Transport Costs/excluded costs and hidden
- Be aware that some businesses advertise the price of the home excluding the transport and site costs. This is often a significant cost.
- Estimated price for the transport may apply for steep driveways, powerline permissions, traffic control and tree removal and trimming.
- Design - Transportable homes are governed by road rules as much as building codes, therefore they have restricted dimensions to fit on a truck and navigate roads. As a result homes are typically limited in width and height.
- Transport Damage - The vibration and flexing during transport can cause plaster cracking and GIB tears, popping nails, or minor structural misalignments that require remedial work upon delivery. It is crucial to check who is responsible for fixing cracks that appear once the house settles on its new piles otherwise you may have to fix these repairs yourself. You should also check how long the maintenance period lasts for.
NOTE: When you undertake a Labour Only contract, some of the issues noted above around Liability and Risk will also apply.
If you're looking at getting a kitset or transportable home make sure you talk to your local GJ's about a quote by filling out the form below