FAQ
Questions we hear most
Answered honestly. If your question isn’t here, just ask us.
Are you a builder in Batemans Bay?
Yes. Perrem is a licensed builder (NSW contractor licence 370201C) based at Cranbrook Road, Batemans Bay. We build new homes, knockdown rebuilds and major renovations across Batemans Bay, Catalina, Batehaven, Surf Beach, Malua Bay, Broulee, Moruya and the wider Eurobodalla and Shoalhaven.
Do you design the home as well as build it?
Yes. Our in-house design team, led by Daniel Perrem (a licensed builder and BDAA registered building designer), designs the home and our own builders construct it. One team from the first sketch to handover means the home you get is the home that was drawn, and the budget is checked against real build costs as the design develops.
Do you build custom homes or project homes?
Custom homes only. Every Perrem home is designed for its block, its views and the people living in it. We don't sell off-the-plan catalogue designs. Our guide on custom vs project homes explains the difference in cost, design and outcome.
Do you build sustainable and energy-efficient homes?
Yes, it is a big part of what we do. We plan orientation, insulation, airtightness, glazing and shading from the start, and can add solar, batteries, rainwater and onsite wastewater for off-grid blocks. Our director, Daniel Perrem, is a Certified Passive House Tradesperson, so high-performance details get built properly on site.
Can you build with SIPs or tilt panels?
Yes. As well as timber and steel frame, we build with structural insulated panels (SIPs) and tilt-up concrete panels. SIPs give a very well-insulated, airtight envelope. Tilt panels are robust, non-combustible and suit coastal and bushfire-prone sites. We'll talk through which system suits your block and budget.
We're retiring or moving to the South Coast. Can you manage the build while we're away?
Yes. Many of our clients are relocating or retiring to the coast from Canberra, Sydney or further afield. We handle design, approvals and construction, and keep you updated through the client portal with photos and milestone walkthroughs, so you don't need to be on site.
How will we communicate during the build?
A dedicated client portal is updated with on-site photos and documented changes. Your construction manager schedules regular check-ins and milestone walkthroughs. For clients based away from the area, we facilitate remote updates, and we are experienced working with interstate and out-of-area clients.
How long does a project take?
Projects typically run one to three years from first consultation to handover. Getting to know you, your lifestyle and your priorities, is one of the most important things we do before a single line is drawn.
How is the cost of my home determined?
We use a two-stage process. The Quick Building Estimate (QBE) gives you a realistic price range early, and the Full Quantity Estimate (FQE) delivers a detailed line-by-line quote before construction begins. You never commit to a number you have not thoroughly reviewed.
Do you offer fixed-price or cost-plus contracts?
Both. Fixed price gives you certainty: the number agreed before construction is the number honoured at completion. Cost plus suits more complex or evolving projects and is completely open book, with every invoice, receipt and labour cost visible to you.
Can we make changes during construction?
Yes, changes are part of custom building. Any variation outside a provisional sum item is handled through a formal variation document, with a tiered admin fee to keep everything documented and transparent.
Do you use subcontractors?
Yes. Our long-standing trade partners, including our electrician, plumber, tiler, plasterer and concreter, operate as part of our team, share our standards, and are scheduled by us directly.
How are progress payments structured?
Typically eight to ten milestone payments across the build. The deposit is 10% as required by the NSW Home Building Act. We operate four separate bank accounts so taxes, super, insurance and subcontractor commitments are always properly allocated.
What warranty does my home carry?
Your home is covered for the duration of the build and for six years post-completion through the NSW icare home warranty insurance system.
What contracts do you use?
We use HIA (Housing Industry Association) standard contracts, a well-established, industry-recognised agreement that protects both parties clearly and fairly.
How do you handle work health and safety on site?
We use HazardCo, a construction-specific app that keeps all Safe Work Method Statements accessible on site with instant incident reporting. Every site has first aid kits and is properly sign-posted, and our team carry personal first aid kits in their vehicles.
Do you work with external architects or designers?
Yes, absolutely. We enjoy collaborating with other design professionals and have extensive experience building from third-party plans and documentation.
Do you work with clients in Canberra or interstate?
Yes. Batemans Bay is Canberra's closest coast, and many of our clients build from Canberra, Sydney or interstate. We manage the whole process remotely with clear, regular updates, so being away is a choice rather than a problem.
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