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FAQ'S

 

Frequently asked questions & answers

Over the years, we have often been asked questions about how the renovation process works and what happens next. As making the decision to renovate and which builder to choose can be a daunting process, we have gathered together and answered some of our most frequently asked questions, hopefully to help give you a better understanding on what to expect during the process of renovating.

Why should I renovate my house instead of selling?

Why move when you can renew your current house to feel like new? Renovating your current home rather than moving…

Why move when you can renew your current house to feel like new? Renovating your current home rather than moving or building can work out much better on your pocket. You can avoid the costs associated with moving, the financial impact of waiting for your currently property to sell, not to mention the hassles of changing your address on everything! The process of building new is very exciting and rewarding, but it can also be a large financial burden when you are doubling up on mortgage payments for 6 - 12 months, sometimes longer if you can't sell your current house straight away. When you choose to renovate, you improve what you have without having to relocate. It is the house you know but updated to be the best house that it can be. 

How do I choose the right builder for me?

At Ramko, we feel it is the utmost importance to have a builder that understands all your needs when it…

At Ramko, we feel it is the utmost importance to have a builder that understands all your needs when it come to your next building project. With personally having experience as both the client and the contractor when it comes to building, we understand time frames, budgets and gaining an understanding of what you are actually wanting to achieve are some of the most important items to cross off prior to any works commencing. There are many great builders out there, just make sure you choose one you feel you can talk to and trust when it comes to working on your next building project. 

Important reminder: Always check that your builder is licenced and insured for the work they are providing. 

What services do you provide?

The number one service that our team provides is helping to get the most from your home once more. We…

The number one service that our team provides is helping to get the most from your home once more. We offer full home renovations, landscaping (both structural and non-structural) and design, transforming your ideas into works of art. Our design consultants can help guide you with your color and material selections so that everything just works. We can also install that new shed or carport you've been thinking about doing too! 

We are listed with many insurance companies for building repairs in the unfortunate event of a claim, along with demolition services of both residential and commercial buildings when it is time for a complete overhaul. 

What areas do you build in?

The Ramko team is based in the Redlands of South East Queensland, covering from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine…

The Ramko team is based in the Redlands of South East Queensland, covering from the Gold Coast to the Sunshine Coast and everything in-between. If you are unsure if we work in your area, please send us a message and we will let you know as soon as possible. 

Are you a licensed QBCC Builder?

Yes. The team at Ramko is licensed with the QBCC to complete all low-rise building work, carpentry, structural landscaping, sheds…

Yes. The team at Ramko is licensed with the QBCC to complete all low-rise building work, carpentry, structural landscaping, sheds and carports. 

Do I need council approvals and if so, how long does that take?

This is very dependent on the work you are wishing to undertake. If you are looking at installing a new…

This is very dependent on the work you are wishing to undertake. If you are looking at installing a new structure, such as a carport, shed or patio extension where no structure currently exists, then you will require council approvals (some exceptions do apply, such as garden sheds under 10m2 etc). If you are upgrading an existing structure to the outside of your home, you will likely also still require approvals. Some internal house renovations can be completed without approvals, dependent on the size of the renovation however. If any extensions of the home are required to complete the renovation, then approvals will be required. Normal turn around is approximately 1 - 2 weeks to gain approvals from a local council once they have all of the information they require. Please note, this time frame may fluctuate depending on how busy that department is at the time.

How long will the work take to complete?

As with the above question, the time frame is based on what work is being completed and will vary on…

As with the above question, the time frame is based on what work is being completed and will vary on every job. We first need to organize a site visit to see and discuss exactly what is required, then we can then present you with our obligation free quote. Once we have your acceptance, we can then draft up plans, contracts and arrange deposits to be paid, seeking approvals from body corporate and council as required as the next step. 

As an example, the Ramko team can complete a full bathroom renovation approximately 2 weeks, including demolition (if there is no hidden damage, such as water or termite damage to the frame that would require further work and time than first quoted) or a complete single house renovation, with 2 bathrooms, 2 living areas and 4 bedrooms in approximately 3-4 weeks (once the contracts have been signed, deposits have been paid and cooling-off periods have been meet of course!).  

Do I need to move out while the work is taking place?

In our professional opinion, we do recommend with most reasonable sized renovations that you are best to stay elsewhere during…

In our professional opinion, we do recommend with most reasonable sized renovations that you are best to stay elsewhere during the duration of the work, mostly for your own comfort and safety. Building work can be extremely noisy, dusty and unsafe, especially if you aren't wearing the correct Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). There will be many onsite hazards, especially to pets and children who don't understand what is going on. There will be times where we require power and water to be disconnected to the home, which may not be convenient to you. We are also able to keep a much tighter schedule when organizing multiple trades if we are not working around school runs or business meetings, saving you both time and money over the total project. 

Can I visit or be on the site while work is happening?

Yes, but only when approved with our team first. We can organize as many site visits as you like during…

Yes, but only when approved with our team first. We can organize as many site visits as you like during the build process, however we need to make sure that it is a safe time to do so. As tempting as it may be to just drop by for sneak peak, we do ask that you plan it with our team first. Unexpected site visitors can be dangerous whilst on a building site, so please call or email first and we will schedule a time that is safe to do so. 

If we are not expecting you, we are not looking out for you or your safety.  

What happens with my furniture in the house?

If we are renovating the complete house (complete new paint, new carpets, bathroom renovations etc.), we may ask to pack…

If we are renovating the complete house (complete new paint, new carpets, bathroom renovations etc.), we may ask to pack away and store your belongings in an on or offsite storage (such as a taxi box) to ensure they are safe and free from construction damage and dust. If the renovation is restricted to one area of the home, we may be able to move the contents from that area and store in other rooms of the house. Ideally, the cleaner our run at the work required, the quicker it is for us to be in and out. If we are having to work around and move furniture constantly, this is going to add delays to completing your project.    

How much will renovating cost me?

Simple renovations can start anywhere from a few hundred dollars, ranging to the more involved that may be worth hundreds…

Simple renovations can start anywhere from a few hundred dollars, ranging to the more involved that may be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars or more. It all depends on what you are trying to achieve and how much money you are wanting to re-invest back into your property. We are more than happy to attend anytime to discuss what you are wanting to achieve and put together an obligation free quote to get your project started.

How much deposit am I required to pay upfront?

The Ramko team uses QBCC contracts and follows the recommended deposit amounts and progress payments. Depending on the size of…

The Ramko team uses QBCC contracts and follows the recommended deposit amounts and progress payments. Depending on the size of the renovation, we will require a 5 - 10% deposit upon acceptance and signing of contracts to commence work, followed by progress payment as the build progresses as outlined in the contract. For more information on when you need a contract, different classes of renovations and progress payments please visit the following link from QBCC.

https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/contracts/when-you-need-contract

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