Hi OzB
I'm planning major renovations to my house in WA on a cost-plus basis. I am looking at engaging a builder to to do this, who be carrying out the normal duties of a professional builder on a renovation project including engaging and supervising subcontractors, taking delivery of materials, scheduling etc. and possibly even doing some of the labour himself. This builder has done similar projects for, and was recommended by, other family members of mine, so is someone I trust. However, the builder is not registered and so in order to obtain a building permit I need to be an owner-builder. I broadly understand the process and responsibilities of an owner-builder, but my key question is how I should be structuring the arrangements between myself as the owner-builder and the unregistered builder to minimise my risks/exposure if something goes wrong?
For example, it makes sense to me that I should agree with the unregistered builder that I am entitled to hold independent inspections during key stages of the build and if defects are found then they must be remedied at the unregistered builder's cost.
Another example is where key subcontractors are involved (work that involves a material sum of money), me sighting their insurances and agreeing in writing with them in regard to the quote and scope/spec of their work directly, rather than going through the unregistered builder. However, is there risk to me in those subcontractors being directly engaged/employed by the unregistered builder?
On the topic of insurance, I am looking into taking out my own construction insurance.
Is there anything else specifically I should be looking at to protect my interests?
"Is there anything else specifically I should be looking at to protect my interests?"
Yes, ditch this guy and engage a licensed builder!