Building FAQs: Warkworth, Matakana & Rodney

Answers to the questions we're asked most about building, renovating and consents in Warkworth and Rodney. Can't see your question? Call 021 425 129.

Getting started

How can I get started with McMahon Builders?

Contact us through the website or call 021 425 129 to arrange a consultation. We'll talk through your project and guide you through the next steps.

What areas do you build in?

Warkworth, Matakana, Omaha, Snells Beach, Leigh, Kaipara and the wider Rodney area, down to the Hibiscus Coast.

What types of projects do you take on?

New homes, architecturally designed homes, minor dwellings, renovations and additions, villa restorations, commercial builds and fit-outs, garages, sheds, cabins, decks, pool houses and outdoor living areas.

Can I send you plans for a price?

Yes. Upload your plans through the website or email them, and we'll come back to you about pricing.

Do I need an architect or designer before I contact you?

No. If you have plans, we'll price them. If you don't, we can talk through your ideas and recommend designers we work with.

Pricing and contracts

How do you price a project?

You get a written proposal setting out the work, the timeframe and the cost before anything starts.

What's usually not included in a build price?

Site works, driveways, landscaping and service connections are the most common exclusions. Your proposal lists exactly what's in and out.

Will I have a written contract?

Yes. Residential building work costing $30,000 or more (including GST) needs a written contract under the Building Act, and we provide one for every job of that size.

Consents and council

Do I need a building consent?

Most new homes, additions and structural work need one. Some smaller work, like certain sheds, low decks and minor dwellings up to 70 m², can be exempt. We'll tell you what applies to your project.

Do you handle the building consent?

We work with your designer and engineer on the application, then manage the council inspections through to the Code Compliance Certificate.

How long does a building consent take?

Council has 20 working days to decide, but the clock stops whenever they ask for more information. The period from 20 December to 10 January doesn't count, so plan around the holidays.

During and after the build

Are your builders licensed?

Yes. Our team are licensed building practitioners, and restricted building work is done or supervised by them.

How will I know how the build is going?

We keep you updated throughout, with regular site meetings at key stages.

Can I make changes during the build?

Yes. We'll price any change in writing before we do it, so the budget stays clear.

What happens after handover?

We walk you through the finished work at handover. Under the Building Act, there's a 12-month defect repair period: the builder must fix defects you report in writing within 12 months of completion.