THINGS TO KNOW PRE-START & How We WORK

At Step 1 Builders, we believe that smooth projects are built on clear communication. To guarantee an efficient timeline and protect your project budget, we operate under clear operational boundaries. By separating these logistical requirements from our core building costs, we ensure you pay only for the actual construction of your project, without hidden markups. 

1. Pre-Start & Paperwork - CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES*

Before our team breaks ground, all administrative approvals must be finalized. Your structural engineer can typically coordinate and provide most of these documents for you:

• Approved building permits and commencement notices
• Certified site surveys
• Council-approved architectural drawings
• Hoarding permits and finalized structural engineer details

2. On-Site Logistics & Facilities - CLIENT RESPONSIBILITIES*

A safe, organized site keeps a project moving quickly. To keep operations running smoothly, the client is responsible for arranging:

• Site Facilities: Adequate welfare units, site toilets, or temporary offices (these are mandatory for large-scale sites or winter builds).
• Waste Management: On-site waste management solutions and physical skips.
• Safety Infrastructure: All scaffolding must be supplied and installed by a licensed, fully insured firm to guarantee a safe working environment.

3. Understanding Site Realities & Complexities

Every property is unique. While our estimates cover standard construction builds, certain structural and environmental variables require specialized time and labor. Additional costs and timeline adjustments will apply if your project includes:

• Structural Complexities: Architectural features such as chimneys, elevator shafts, curved walls, non-standard angles, or excessively steep roof pitches.
• Sub-Surface Realities: Hidden ground conditions that require extra mitigation, such as dense site clearing, heavily treed lots, existing ponds, unanticipated hardpan depth, or rising foundation walls exceeding one meter in depth.

4. Site Access & Heavy Machinery

Construction requires heavy specialized vehicles. To prevent delays, the site must be accessible for heavy pump trucks and concrete trucks.

• Steady Ground: Specialized stone fill may be required to create a steady, safe surface for these heavy vehicles.
• We Can Help: If your site requires this specialized stone fill, Step 1 Builders can facilitate and manage the installation for you as an approved project add-on.