Before Construction Starts: Run a Builder Pre-Start Readiness Review

Signing the building contract can feel like the point when uncertainty ends. In reality, unresolved document gaps, approvals, site access and responsibilities become more expensive once people and equipment mobilise.

A pre-start review is a commitment gate: can the team begin the authorised work with a shared, controlled set of information?

Run the START review

1. Scope: confirm contract documents, drawing register, specifications, exclusions and accepted clarifications.
2. Tests and approvals: list conditions, permits, inspections, reports and hold points required before relevant work.
3. Access and logistics: agree possession, neighbours, deliveries, storage, temporary services, safety interfaces and site records.
4. Responsibility and authority: name who issues directions, approves variations, answers RFIs and receives notices.
5. Treasury and time: align programme, payment process, funding availability, contingency and reporting cadence.

QBCC quote guidance stresses comparing the same scope, materials and timing. Australian Government contract guidance recommends clear written terms, responsibilities and timeframes. Requirements differ by jurisdiction, contract and project; use appropriately licensed and qualified advisers.

A clearly labelled hypothetical

At pre-start, the team finds the landscape plan and civil drawing show different finished levels. Mobilisation is not treated as permission to improvise. The design issue is assigned, affected work is held, programme and cost consequences are assessed, and only authorised directions are issued under the contract.

Close gaps with evidence

Do not rely on “the builder knows what we mean”. Record the current document revision, decision owner and contractual communication channel. Have the superintendent, contract administrator, lawyer, certifier and consultants confirm matters within their roles. A checklist does not alter the contract or transfer statutory duties.

The Think Property Club System places a gate before major commitments. Specialists resolve technical issues and Support helps maintain accountable communication under pressure.

Your next action

Schedule a START review before site possession. Give every unresolved item an owner, due date, cost or time consequence, and clear condition for closure.

Key Takeaway

Construction should begin because the project is ready for the authorised next work—not merely because the calendar says start.

Your Turn

Which unresolved drawing, approval or responsibility could become your first avoidable variation after mobilisation?

Continue learning

• Compare builder tenders
• Construction variations

Sources and boundaries

1. Queensland Building and Construction Commission, Seeking and comparing quotes (current page; accessed 7 September 2026)
2. Australian Government, Prepare a contract (current page; accessed 7 September 2026)
3. Australian Government, Make a risk management plan (current page; accessed 7 September 2026)

This article is general education, not personalised planning, legal, financial, tax or building advice. Requirements and outcomes vary by jurisdiction, site, contract, structure and circumstances. Check current information with the relevant authority and appropriately qualified advisers.