When you receive a build contract price, it’s more than just a lump sum. It’s made up of different elements that cover labour, materials, overheads, and risks. Understanding these components helps you:

- Compare quotes fairly

- Avoid hidden surprises

- Make informed decisions about your project

1: PRELIMINARIES & SITE COSTS

These are the set-up costs before the actual building begins:

- Site establishment (fencing, access, scaffolding, site toilets)

- Temporary power and water supply

- Health & safety compliance

- Project management fees

Think of these as the “get ready to build” costs.

2: LABOUR

Covers the tradespeople working on your project, including:

- Builders and apprentices

- Subcontractors (plumbers, electricians, plasterers, painters)

- Site supervisor(s)

Labour costs vary depending on skill level, project complexity, and availability of trades.

3: MATERIALS

Everything required to construct your home:

- Framing, cladding, roofing

- Windows and doors

- Plumbing and electrical fittings- Kitchens, bathrooms, and joinery

- Flooring, paint, and finishing touches

4: FIXTURES, FITTINGS & FINISHES

These are the visible items that bring character to your home, such as:

- Kitchen cabinetry and benchtops

- Tapware, tiles, and bathroom fittings

- Light fittings and switches

- Appliances (sometimes included, sometimes excluded)

Clarify with your builder what brand, quality, and allowance (PC sum) is included.

5: CONSENTS, FEES & COMPLIANCE

Mandatory costs you’ll need to cover:

- Council building and resource consents

- Engineering reports (structural, geotech, stormwater)

- Inspections and code compliance certificates

- Insurances (public liability, builder’s risk cover)

6: OVERHEADS & PROFIT

Every builder includes a margin to cover:

- Office and admin costs

- Warranties, insurances, guarantees

- Builder’s profit

A fair margin ensures your builder stays in business and can support you during and after the build.

7: CONTINGENCIES & PROVISIONAL SUMS

Allowances set aside for unknowns:

- Ground conditions (rock, poor soil)- Upgrades or design changes mid-build

- Price increases on certain materials

Always budget an extra 10–15% contingency on top of your contract price.

🧱 McKAY BROTHERS BUILDING & RENOVATIONS APPROACH

We believe in transparent pricing. Our build contracts clearly outline:

- What’s included and excluded

- PC sums (Prime Cost items)

- Provisional sums (estimates for unknowns)

- Payment schedule tied to progress milestones

No grey areas. No nasty surprises.

📞 READY TO BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE?

We’ll walk you through every line of your contract, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

At McKay Brothers Building and Renovation, we:

✅ Provide honest, upfront information

✅ Help you make informed decisions

✅ Keep projects on time and on budget

📞 Call us today on 021 614 246