About us · Our process
How an HRE Built project runs, stage by stage
You always know which stage you are in, what happens next, who is responsible for it and what it costs. That is the whole point of the process.
Our process
Five clear stages, from first visit to warranty
pack
You always know which stage you're in, what happens next and who is responsible for it — no
guesswork, no chasing.
01
Free consultation
We visit your property, listen to the brief and give an honest read on what’s possible and what it’s likely to cost.
Stage 1 of 5
02
Design & fixed quote
Concept plans and an itemised fixed-price quote — every allowance visible, no vague provisional sums.
Stage 2 of 5
03
Permits & approvals
We prepare and lodge planning and building permit documentation with your Melbourne council.
Stage 3 of 5
04
Construction
Licensed trades, a dedicated site supervisor and weekly progress updates through to lock-up and fit-off.
Stage 4 of 5
05
Handover & warranty
Final walkthrough, defect sign-off, warranty documents and domestic building insurance in your hands.
Stage 5 of 5
Before construction
Most of the risk is removed before anyone picks up a tool
The pre-construction stage is where projects are won or lost. We inspect what is behind the walls and under the floor, confirm what your council requires, price the real scope and lock the structural decisions before permits are lodged.
That work is why our variations are rare and our programs hold. It is also why we will sometimes tell you a job is not worth doing the way it has been drawn.
01
Free consultation
We visit your property, listen to the brief and give an honest read on what’s possible and what it’s likely to cost.
02
Design & fixed quote
Concept plans and an itemised fixed-price quote — every allowance visible, no vague provisional sums.
03
Permits & approvals
We prepare and lodge planning and building permit documentation with your Melbourne council.
04
Construction
Licensed trades, a dedicated site supervisor and weekly progress updates through to lock-up and fit-off.
05
Handover & warranty
Final walkthrough, defect sign-off, warranty documents and domestic building insurance in your hands.
FAQs
Questions about how the process works
How long does the design and permit stage take?
For most renovations and extensions, design, engineering and building permits take three to six months before construction starts. Where a planning permit is required — heritage overlays, neighbourhood character, vegetation controls — allow longer, as council assessment timeframes sit outside our control.
When do I have to make selections?
Structural and layout decisions are locked before permits are lodged. Finishes such as tiles, tapware, joinery and flooring are confirmed during pre-construction, well before the trades need them, so nothing is chosen under pressure on site.
How are progress payments structured?
Payments follow the stages set out in your contract — typically deposit, base, frame, lock-up, fixing and completion. Each claim is made after the stage is complete, and you receive photo evidence with the claim.
What happens if something unexpected is found on site?
It is documented, priced and presented to you as a written variation before the work proceeds. This is most common in older homes where wiring, stumps or drainage are worse than they appeared. Our pre-construction inspection is designed to keep these to a minimum.
What do I get at handover?
A defect walkthrough with your supervisor, the defects rectified, then a handover pack containing compliance certificates for plumbing, electrical and waterproofing, warranty documentation and your operating manuals.
Start your project today
Start at stage one
A free consultation with no obligation — we visit, we listen and we tell you honestly what is possible.