Could Being an Owner Builder Save You Money — or Cost You More?

Becoming an owner builder can be a rewarding way to build or renovate your home, but it’s definitely not the right choice for everyone. While many people are attracted by the potential cost savings and greater control over the project, there are also significant responsibilities (and stresses) that shouldn’t be underestimated.

The Responsibilities You Take On

As an owner builder, you will be responsible for organising trades, managing schedules, overseeing quality, ensuring compliance with building regulations, and keeping the project on budget. You’ll also be responsible for workplace safety, which is a huge responsibility. Without planning properly, delays, unexpected costs, and mistakes can quickly outweigh any initial savings.

The Upside When It Goes Well

On the other hand, if you’re organised, willing to invest the time to learn, and comfortable making important decisions, being an owner builder can provide greater flexibility and a real sense of achievement. It also gives you complete visibility over the building process and allows you to have more direct control over the quality of the finished result.

What to Check Before You Decide

Before deciding, honestly consider how much time you can dedicate to the project, your level of building knowledge, and your ability to manage multiple tradespeople. You must also do your research for the state that you are in — each state has slightly different rules for owner builders.

In Queensland, for example, you must complete an Owner Builder course through a registered training organisation; this is not free. You may also have to complete an asbestos awareness course and a white card (basic safety onsite) course before proceeding.

Also keep in mind that in most states of Australia, it will be listed on the title to the property that works have been completed onsite under an owner building permit — this may scare potential buyers if you are planning to sell the property quickly.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, being an owner builder is worth it for some people — but only when they go into the process well-informed and well-prepared. Understanding your responsibilities by doing proper research before you start is the best way to avoid mistakes and achieve a successful build.