2 Feb 2011

Warning of pitfalls in cut price building deals

6:49 am on 2 February 2011

The Master Builders Federation says a price war is underway in the building industry, but many cut price deals may not be as good as they seem.

The Federation says firms are reducing the price of new homes to attract buyers in the wake of a downturn and record low building consents in December.

It says this may sound good for the consumer, but in many instances builders are cutting corners and people should check the fine print of their contracts.

The Certified Builders Association says there is anecdotal evidence of builders failing to include vital costs such as scaffolding in building contracts, or under estimating the costs to homeowners for some fittings.