Question 1

What kind of projects do you take on?

Accepted Answer

Renovations, extensions, new builds, decks and pergolas, kitchens and bathrooms, and granny flats — across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie & the Hunter. Most of our work is in existing family homes: opening up a layout, adding a second storey or a rear extension, or rebuilding the outdoor living space.

Question 2

Where do we start if we're thinking about a project?

Accepted Answer

With a conversation, and it costs nothing. Bring whatever you've got — full plans, a rough concept, or just an idea and a budget in mind — and we'll walk through what's realistic, what it involves, and what it's likely to cost. Sharing a ballpark budget early means the design gets developed around it, not the other way round.

Question 3

Are you licensed and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Delaney Construction Projects Pty Ltd holds NSW builder licence 369751C and is fully insured. ABN 57 649 015 341, GST-registered since March 2021. You can verify the licence on the NSW Fair Trading register.

Question 4

Fixed-price or cost-plus — which contract is better?

Accepted Answer

Both have their place. If your plans and selections are mostly finalised — often the case on a new build — a fixed price can work well. For renovations and extensions, where hidden conditions and evolving decisions are common, we prefer cost-plus: you pay the actual cost of materials and labour plus our agreed margin, with a detailed budget before work begins, fortnightly cost updates, and every invoice and receipt available to you. No inflated "just in case" allowances.

Question 5

What do you need from us to price the job?

Accepted Answer

To prepare an estimated cost breakdown and an initial budget we only need architectural plans and engineering plans. Approvals (DA, construction certificate, stamped plans) aren't required at that stage but help, because they show the job can legally proceed. For a fixed-price contract you'd also finalise electrical and lighting plans, cabinetry drawings, fixtures and fittings schedules, and finishes selections.

Question 6

How accurate is a builder's estimate?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the detail in your plans. Concept or sketch plans: roughly ±20–25%. Architectural and engineering plans: ±10–15%. Full specifications with item schedules and finishes: within about ±5%, which is usually enough for a fixed-price contract. We also recommend setting aside a 10–15% contingency for hidden issues, upgrades or changes.

Question 7

Who will actually be on site?

Accepted Answer

Tobin and his own crew. You deal directly with the builder who quoted the job — not a sales rep who hands you over once the contract is signed.

Question 8

Can we live in the house during a renovation?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes — it depends on the scope. We'll tell you straight up whether it's workable, and if it is we plan the staging around it so there's always a usable kitchen or bathroom.

Before
you build.

Should you choose a licensed builder or go owner builder?

What plans, selections and approvals need to be finalised before construction — or before costs can be confirmed?

Is a fixed-price contract or cost-plus better for your project?

Which adds more value to your home — a renovation, an extension, or a new build?

How can you make your home more energy efficient?

What's the best way to plan your budget?

Beforeyou build.