Design & Build Process

At Top Tier Building Solutions, we believe building or renovating your home should be an exciting and rewarding experience—not a stressful one. Our clear, transparent process keeps you informed every step of the way, ensuring your project stays on time, on budget, and aligned with your vision.

What’s involved in the design and build process?

We start by getting a clear understanding of what you want for your home. Whether it’s a custom home build, home extension, or renovation in Canberra, our first step is to listen. We’ll sit down with you to discuss your goals, style, budget, and lifestyle needs.

From there, we guide you through every stage—concept planning, design development, approvals, construction, and final handover. You’ll be involved at every step, with regular updates and open communication to ensure everything is progressing smoothly.

Our goal is to make the experience stress-free and enjoyable, with complete transparency around costs, materials, and timeframes. We take care of the technical side—approvals, trades, and scheduling—so you can focus on the exciting part: seeing your new home come to life.

How do I get started?

Getting started is simple. Just give us a call or send us an email to arrange an initial consultation. We’ll take the time to understand where you’re up to in the process—whether you already have plans or are just starting with an idea—and explain how we can help move your project forward.

We’ll discuss your goals, timeframe, and budget, then outline the next steps, including design collaboration, site assessments, and preliminary costings. From there, we’ll tailor a plan that suits your needs and guide you through every step of the process.

How long will it take to receive a quotation?

Once we have all the necessary plans and supporting documentation, we aim to provide a detailed written quotation within two working weeks, unless communicated otherwise.

Our quotes are not generic estimates—they’re comprehensive, fixed-price proposals that clearly outline all inclusions, exclusions, and allowances. This ensures full transparency from the start, so there are no hidden costs or surprises later in the build.

What will be included in my quotation?

Your quotation will cover all aspects of the project, from approvals and certifications to the final handover. It details materials, labour, permits, and timelines, providing a clear understanding of what’s included and how your investment is allocated.

We’ll also arrange an in-person meeting to go through the quote in detail. During this session, we’ll explain technical terms, discuss any questions you have, and make sure everything aligns with your expectations before you sign off.

What if I don’t have plans yet?

No problem! If you don’t have plans or drawings, we can connect you with our trusted Canberra-based draftsmen and architects. Together, we’ll design a layout that fits your space, style, and budget.

This collaborative approach ensures your design meets both your personal vision and ACT building regulations, helping you avoid costly changes or compliance issues later on. Whether you’re designing from scratch or modifying existing plans, we’ll guide you through the design process seamlessly.

Can I choose my own products and finishes?

Absolutely! As a custom builder, we encourage our clients to personalise every aspect of their home. You have full control over the products, finishes, fixtures, and brands used throughout your project.

We can also recommend a curated list of preferred local suppliers who offer high-quality materials and competitive pricing. Whether you prefer premium fixtures or sustainable, budget-friendly options, we’ll help you choose the perfect combination to suit your taste and lifestyle.

How long will my project take?

Project timelines depend on several factors, including the size, complexity, and scope of work. During your initial consultation, we’ll provide an estimated timeframe based on the type of project—whether it’s a small renovation, large extension, or full custom build.

Once the contract is signed, you’ll receive a detailed project schedule outlining each stage of the build, including anticipated start and completion dates. We pride ourselves on realistic timelines and transparent communication, so you’ll always know what to expect.

Can I stay in my home during construction?

In most renovation or extension projects, it’s possible to stay in your home while we work. We carefully coordinate trades and construction schedules to minimise disruption to your daily life.

If staying in your home isn’t practical due to the scope of the work, we’ll help you plan a temporary relocation. Either way, our goal is to make the process as smooth and convenient as possible while keeping your comfort and safety in mind.

Will my project be insured during construction?

Yes. Top Tier Building Solutions carries all required insurances for residential building projects in the ACT and NSW, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire construction process.

Our coverage includes:

• Public Liability Insurance – Protection against accidental property damage or injury on site.

• Workers’ Compensation Insurance – Coverage for all tradespeople and contractors on-site.

• Housing Indemnity Insurance – Protection in the unlikely event of builder insolvency or project non-completion.

• Home Warranty Insurance – Ensures your home is protected even after completion, covering structural defects and major issues.

We take safety, compliance, and accountability seriously—so you can rest easy knowing your project is protected from start to finish.