FAQs

Should I knock down & rebuild, or renovate?	Every project is unique, and the best approach depends on your budget, goals, and the condition of your existing home. In many cases, knocking down and rebuilding can be more cost-effective because it allows for a fixed-price contract with clear material and labor costs. Renovations, on the other hand, often uncover unexpected issues—such as structural problems or outdated wiring—which can make accurate upfront quoting difficult and lead to cost blowouts. When deciding, consider: Budget & Scope – How extensive are the changes you want to make? Structural Condition – Is the existing house in good shape, or will major repairs be needed? Design Goals – Do you prefer to preserve the character of the home (e.g., Victorian, Edwardian), or are you looking for a modern redesign? Emotional Connection – Do you love your current home’s features, or is a fresh start more appealing? Material Availability – Are the materials needed for restoration still accessible and in good condition? Ultimately, it’s about finding the right balance between cost, design, and long-term value. We’re happy to assess your home and provide guidance on the best approach for your situation.
How do I know if I am over-capitalising?	Over-capitalisation is a common concern, but it’s only a real issue if you plan to sell your home within a few years of completing the build. If you're creating a home to live in for the long term, investing in quality construction, materials, and design features adds value to your lifestyle and comfort. However, if resale value is a priority, consider: Property Values in Your Area – Research recent sales of similar homes to see how your planned investment compares. Scope of the Build – High-end finishes and extensive custom features may not always translate to a higher resale price. Market Trends – Real estate conditions fluctuate, so what may seem like over-capitalisation today could be a wise investment in the future. Ultimately, building or renovating should align with your personal goals and needs. If you’re unsure, we can guide you on smart investments that balance quality, functionality, and long-term value.
Do you warrant your work?	Yes, we stand behind the quality of our work. At MCL Constructions, we go beyond industry standards to give our clients extra peace of mind. 12-Month Defect Liability Period – Unlike the standard 3-month period, we provide an extended 12-month defect liability period at no extra cost. This ensures your home experiences all four seasons, so any seasonal-related issues—such as timber movement, expansion, or contraction—can be addressed. 10-Year Structural Guarantee – We provide a 10-year structural warranty covering key structural elements such as foundations, steelwork, frame, roof & waterproofing. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and lasting durability means your home is built to stand the test of time.
Can we visit the building site to see the progress of our home?	Yes, we schedule regular site meetings with you and our site supervisor to keep you updated on progress and key milestones. For safety reasons, all site visits must be pre-arranged and accompanied by our team. Construction sites can be hazardous, so we ensure every visit is conducted safely and in compliance with workplace safety regulations. If you ever have questions or would like an update between scheduled visits, we’re always happy to provide progress reports and photos.
How much will my home cost?	The cost of your home depends on several key factors: Size – The larger the home, the more materials and labor required. Complexity of Design – Unique architectural features, custom details, and structural challenges can increase costs. Inclusions & Finishes – Whether you choose basic, standard, or luxury fittings and finishes will significantly impact the final price. Land Characteristics – Factors such as slope, soil type, and site orientation can affect construction complexity and cost. During the early design stages, we can provide guidance on construction costs based on these factors, helping you make informed decisions that align with your budget and vision.
How do we know what’s included in the price?	When we present our quote, we provide a clear and detailed specification document that outlines exactly what is included in the price. This easy-to-understand list covers all the key elements of the build, from materials and finishes to any additional services, ensuring there are no surprises along the way. If you have any questions or need further clarification on specific items, we're always here to help!
Will you accept changes to the scope of works through the building process?	Yes, changes to the scope of work are possible and are referred to as variations. Any requested changes will be carefully assessed and costed. We will present these costs to you for approval before proceeding with any additional work. This ensures transparency and helps keep the project on track and within budget.
How long will our home take to build?	The construction timeline depends on factors such as the size and complexity of the design. Once the details are finalized, we will provide you with an estimated construction time before the building contract is signed. We aim to give you a realistic timeframe and keep you updated throughout the process to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Do you guarantee a date the project will be completed?	Yes, we pride ourselves on delivering all our projects within realistic, achievable timelines. While we make every effort to stay on track, factors such as weather conditions, material availability, or unforeseen circumstances can impact the timeline. If any delays arise, we will keep you informed and work proactively to minimize disruptions.
Do you provide everything required for my home extension project?	Yes, we have many levels of service from simply building your home using your plans to having an architect design a new home for you or plan renovations or extensions to your existing property. We can include many other design and construction services such as colour consultation, interior decoration, kitchen & bathroom design, landscaping, and more.
What areas do you build in?	The majority of our projects over the last decade have been in Melbourne’s Eastern and South-Eastern suburbs. If you're unsure whether we service your area, feel free to reach out—we're happy to discuss your project and see how we can help.
Do you provide home renovation and home extension services?	Yes, we specialize in home renovations and extensions, helping homeowners maximize their existing space without the costs and hassle of moving. With property prices rising, renovating or extending has become an increasingly popular choice. In fact, around half of our projects involve extensions. Whether you're looking to update your home, create more space, or enhance its functionality, we can guide you through the process to achieve the best outcome for your lifestyle and budget.
Can you build environmentally friendly and energy efficient homes?	Yes, we are HIA-accredited Greensmart builders and are committed to sustainable building practices. We work with designers and architects who specialize in energy-efficient homes, achieving ratings of 7 stars and above. We can incorporate a range of eco-friendly and energy-saving solutions, including: Passive solar design for natural heating and cooling Solar power and hot water systems Water-saving solutions (rainwater tanks, greywater systems, efficient taps) Eco-friendly building materials High-performance insulation for year-round comfort Thermostatically controlled roof vents to reduce heat build-up Energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting Our goal is to create homes that are comfortable, efficient, and built to last, helping you reduce energy costs while minimizing environmental impact.