Variations and extra charges: what your builder must put in writing
A variation is any change to the work in your contract. It might be a different benchtop, an extra window, or work the builder says wasn’t in the original price.
Variations are the most common cause of surprise bills. The rules are there to protect you.
What are the rules for a variation?
- It must be in writing. A chat on site is not enough.
- You must agree to it in writing before the extra work starts. Urgent work is the one exception.
- You get a copy. The builder must give you the written variation before the work starts, or within 5 business days of you both agreeing, whichever is sooner.
- No paying in advance. The builder can’t ask you to pay for a variation before that work starts.
The written variation should say what the change is, the date it was asked for, how it changes the price, and whether it will delay the job.
If a bill turns up for work you didn’t agree to
- Ask the builder for the written variation you signed.
- If there isn’t one, tell them in writing that you didn’t agree to the change.
- Pay what your contract says for the work you did agree to. Hold off on the disputed amount until it is sorted out.
- If you can’t sort it out, read our guide to building disputes.
Avoid problems before they start
Before you sign, ask how the builder handles changes. A good builder will happily explain their variation process, and many use QBCC’s free contracts.