Protect your investment with expert contract administration throughout construction. We manage builder relationships, progress claims, variations, and quality control to ensure your project is completed on time, on budget, and to specification.
SQM Architects has delivered over 210 development projects across Melbourne with a 98% planning approval rate. Our team of ARBV-registered architects brings 15+ years of experience navigating Victorian planning requirements, helping developers across Melbourne's suburbs realise value from their sites.
We act as your representative throughout construction, managing all contractual matters between you and your builder to protect your interests and ensure project success.
Review and advice on building contracts, ensuring appropriate terms, conditions, and protections are in place before signing with your chosen builder.
Independent verification of progress claims against actual work completed, protecting you from paying for incomplete or substandard work.
Assessment and negotiation of contract variations, ensuring any changes are documented correctly and priced fairly.
Regular site inspections to verify construction quality matches approved drawings and specifications.
Identification and documentation of defects, managing the rectification process to ensure your project meets quality standards.
Management of practical completion process, final inspections, and handover procedures to protect your interests.
Success in Melbourne's eastern suburbs requires architects who understand both the planning requirements and the council's design expectations.
Building contracts can be complex. Professional administration protects your interests and ensures accountability throughout the construction process.
Independent assessment of progress claims ensures you only pay for work that's been completed to the required standard. This prevents overpayment and protects your cash flow.
Regular inspections identify defects early when they're cheaper to fix. Our detailed documentation provides evidence if disputes arise later.
Proper variation management prevents scope creep and budget blowouts. We ensure all changes are documented and fairly priced before work proceeds.
Having an architect as your representative levels the playing field with experienced builders. We speak builder language and know the contracts inside out.
Every claim assessed against actual progress. We ensure you don't pay for work that hasn't been completed or doesn't meet quality standards.
All variations properly documented with clear scope and pricing before work proceeds. No surprise bills at project end.
Regular site visits to verify construction quality. Issues identified and documented while there's still time to rectify them properly.
Track progress against construction program. Early warning of delays allows time for recovery strategies.
Comprehensive defects list maintained throughout construction, ensuring nothing is missed at handover.
Thorough practical completion inspection. All defects rectified and sign-offs obtained before final payment released.
Review building contract before signing. Advise on terms, conditions, and any recommended amendments to protect your interests.
Regular site inspections throughout construction. Each progress claim independently assessed before payment approval is recommended.
All variations assessed and documented. Fair pricing negotiated before work proceeds. Budget impacts tracked and communicated.
Comprehensive final inspection. Defects list compiled and rectification managed. Final sign-off coordinated with all required certificates.
Managing multiple projects or complex developments where professional administration protects your investment and reputation.
New to development and want expert guidance through the construction process. Learn the ropes with professional support.
Building your own home or investment property but don't have time to monitor construction closely.
Investing in Melbourne property from interstate or overseas. We're your eyes and ears on the ground.
Contract administration includes contract review and advice, progress claim assessment, site inspections, variation management, quality monitoring, defects documentation, and practical completion management. We act as your representative throughout the construction process.
Our contract administration service is typically charged as a percentage of the contract value, ranging from 1.5-2.5% depending on project complexity. This fee often saves multiples of its cost through proper claim assessment and variation management. We provide a fixed quote before engagement.
Site visit frequency depends on the construction stage and project requirements. Typically, we conduct inspections at each progress claim stage (5-7 visits for residential, more for larger projects) plus additional visits during critical construction phases and at practical completion.
Yes, we can step in at any stage of construction. We'll review all existing documentation, assess current progress, and establish proper administration procedures going forward. The earlier we're engaged, the more protection we can provide.
Our documentation provides essential evidence if disputes arise. We can assist with dispute resolution processes, provide expert reports, and if necessary, recommend specialist building dispute lawyers. Good contract administration often prevents disputes from escalating.
Access the complete VPP including Clause 54 (one dwelling), Clause 55 (two+ dwellings), and ResCode standards.
View VPPOfficial Department of Transport and Planning guides for residential development, subdivisions, and permit applications.
View GuidesResidential development standards for setbacks, overlooking, overshadowing, private open space, and car parking.
View ResCodeVictorian Building Authority regulations, National Construction Code compliance, and building permit requirements.
View RegulationsGet instant insights into your property's subdivision potential. Powered by official Victorian planning data—no phone call required.
Professional contract administration saves money, prevents disputes, and ensures your project is completed to specification. Contact us to discuss your project.
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