NJR Homes are one of Canberra’s most recommended building companies. Photo: NJR Homes.
Building a new project from scratch is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. Choosing the right builder is the first and most important step in the journey to bring your vision to life.
To protect your investment and keep your stress levels in check, you’ll want to work with an experienced, value-for-money builder who takes pride in their work and a portfolio of successful projects. They should also coordinate various aspects of the project for you, from obtaining permits and hiring subcontractors to ensuring the work is completed on time and to the highest standard.
Experienced builders have a wealth of knowledge to draw on and are well positioned to provide suggestions, recommendations and advice in line with your goals, budget and deadline.
In this article, we’ll outline the qualities to consider when choosing a builder, and share where to find the best in Canberra.
What makes a great builder?
Having confidence in your builder’s ability to do a great job is key to making your project stress-free, whether they’re working on your forever home or an important commercial build.
It can be helpful to keep the following in mind when choosing a builder:
- Experience with your chosen building needs. A great builder should have extensive experience in the type of project you’re undertaking. Look for builders with a strong portfolio of completed projects similar to yours. This indicates they have the expertise needed to handle your specific requirements.
- Reputation. The reputation of a builder speaks volumes about their quality of work and customer satisfaction. Check for builders with high ratings and plenty of positive reviews on Google and Facebook. Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends or family in Canberra can also be invaluable.
- Communication skills. Effective communication is key in any building project. A great builder should be able to clearly convey project timelines, costs, and any potential issues that arise. They should also be responsive to your questions and concerns throughout the process.
- Quality of workmanship. The best builders are known for their attention to detail and commitment to high-quality workmanship. Look for builders who use premium materials and adhere to best practices in construction to ensure a durable and aesthetically pleasing result.
- Licensing and insurance. It’s crucial to hire a builder who is properly licensed and insured. This not only ensures they meet industry standards but also protects you from potential liabilities. Always verify their credentials and ask for proof of insurance before signing any contracts.
The best builders in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
NJR Homes
Canberra-based NJR Homes provide beautiful custom homes and quality knock-down rebuilds. Managing director Nick Rowe is a qualified carpenter with more than 20 years in the building industry. He and his team only use local trades and suppliers, with expert supervision, to ensure all projects are completed to the highest standard.
NJR Homes keeps clients up to date throughout the entire construction process, bringing individual ideas to life with great attention to detail. Nick and the team value high-quality craftsmanship, empowering their clients to create the living space they want with the very best materials and workmanship.
Every NJR project begins with a detailed consultation to understand clients' unique needs, followed by a documented, comprehensive quote that includes a full scope of works. They then provide a home building contract approved by Master Builders ACT, and a written schedule detailing critical project stages. Nothing goes unconsidered.
Erin Barry. On Google, Erin Barry wrote “We cant recommend Nick Highly Enough. The entire building process, from design to completion, was smooth, fast and friendly."
P+G Builders
P+G Builders is a Canberra-based family business boasting more than 40 years' experience in the construction industry.
Carpenters by trade, Peter and Mark became qualified builders to create beautiful and long-lasting homes that stand the test.
Specialising in renovations, extensions, knock-down rebuilds and custom new homes, this highly experienced team takes a detailed approach to every home, managing projects with ease and fostering relationships with clients.
P+G Builders has been a proud member of the Master Builders Association (ACT) since 2016.
Peter and Mark use a carefully chosen network of skilled and reliable tradespeople. This ensures every job is done to the P+G standard.
Ali and Nick entrusted the complete renovation of their Chapman home to P+G Builders.
"We were on an extremely tight timeframe and Peter and Mark worked with us to ensure everything stayed on track," they said.
"Peter was responsive and available to answer our many questions, while Mark was onsite ensuring everything ran smoothly. We couldn't be happier with the outcome and are already planning our next project."
Sunny Homes
A family owned business specialising in residential custom homes, knockdown rebuilds and farmhouse construction, Sunny Homes proudly goes above and beyond for all clients.
Having built more than 250 beautiful properties across the region, Sunny Homes has been recognised with a number of awards from the likes of Master Builders Australia and the Housing Industry Association.
They include Display Home of the Year, Medium Builder of the Year and Custom Home of the Year up to $600,000 (2024), Dual Occupancy of the Year and Custom Home of the Year up to $350,000 and $500,000 (2022) and Custom Home of the Year up to $500,000 (2021).
Sunny Homes work can be viewed at their display homes located at 73 Robin Boyd Crescent, Taylor and 60 Edward Drive, Googong.
Sunny Homes have state-of-the-art display homes in Googong NSW and Taylor ACT. Photo: Sunny Homes.
Owner Sunny has delivered top quality dream homes with unmatched craftsmanship since 2012. He leads a highly skilled team that takes great pride in their work, striving for excellence in every project they undertake. Clients are guided through their dream home building journey with tailored, one-on-one support.
All builds undergo thorough inspections by independent, certified third-party inspectors, so their new owners can have peace of mind that they are moving into an exceptional, well-maintained property.
Kumar and Indrani had their dream property built by Sunny Homes in August 2024. Kumar describes the process as seamless and defined by excellent communication throughout.
"A massive thank you to Sunny and the entire team for the positive building experience and for the smooth handover of our wonderful new property," the couple says online.
"Sunny went above and beyond to ensure that we were happy with the end product."
Fresh Renovation and Construction
FRESH Renovation and Construction is a trusted building specialist based in Curtin. Owned and operated by local builder, Luke van der Linden, the FRESH team specialises in extensions and large-scale renovations across Canberra.
With incredible attention to detail and nearly 20 years’ experience in the industry, FRESH has earned a reputation for quality, flawless renovations that transforms outdated houses into beautiful and unique places to live.
FRESH works with each client from project conception to completion, providing advice and recommendations on the most efficient, economical and practical ways to achieve their design vision. They deliver renovation and extension projects on time and on budget, going to great lengths to keep clients informed at every step.
Project managers have access to an extensive network of trusted contractors, tradies, draftspeople and architects, armed with the experience and know-how to ensure top quality results.
The team at FRESH knows that renovating or extending is a practical alternative to a complete rebuild. Changing existing structures can reduce time and save thousands of dollars. It’s also a more sustainable choice, with less waste involved when compared to demolition.
FRESH Renovation and Construction wants clients to live somewhere they love. That's why they specialise in restoration work - it maintains the unique character of a home while delivering new exceptional, tailor-made spaces.
On RiotACT, satisfied customer Heather Mann says, “Luke and his team from Fresh Renovation and Construction recently completed some work for us at our property. We very highly recommend them, they were very professional, polite and completed the work to a very high standard.”
Facelift Renovations and Construction
Facelift Renovations and Construction have built a stellar reputation for their repair, renovation, and rebuild services across both residential and commercial markets in Canberra.
The team of skilled and certified trade professionals delivers turn-key solutions from initial design right through to final handover.
Facelift Renovations and Construction are one of Canberra’s most recommended renovation and construction companies . Photo: Holly Williams.
For this team, projects are only considered complete once clients are completely satisfied. Their focus on client outcomes ensures every job is finished to the highest standard, and communication and efficiency are central to their service.
Lucinda Cooper shared this review on Google:“We absolutely love our newly renovated bathroom, ensuite and laundry. The tiling looks totally amazing! The Facelift team were extremely easy to work with, and their attention to detail was impeccable. We would recommend Facelift for any tiling services or home renovation!”
BACE Project Management
BACE Project Management is Canberra's one stop shop for all things building.
The BACE team offers both design and construction services, for everything from renovations and extensions to knock down rebuilds, new homes, apartments, warehouses, commercial fitouts, and more.
With a class A building license and proven track record with local projects, BACE is all about finding solutions, not problems. Providing a positive experience for every client throughout the entire design and build process is their top priority.
Take a look at our articles on the best renovation companies, best bathroom renovation companies, best kitchen renovation companies and best architects in Canberra for more information on how you can maximise your building project.
If you’re interested in organising your building project yourself, check out our articles on best curtain & blinds suppliers, the best joiners, the best bricklayers, best flooring specialists, best house painters, best landscapers and best fencing contractors in Canberra.
To explore smart-home options, check out our article on the best home automation system installers in the region. And, to make your new house a home, check out our article on the best furniture stores that Canberra has to offer.
Your experience with builders in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any Canberra builders? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right builder?
The type of builder you choose will likely be influenced by the size and complexity of your project. You’ll certainly need one who is fully licensed, insured and experienced. Other factors are experience with your type and scale of project, how long they’ve been in business and testimonials from customers. You’ll also want someone you’re comfortable working with.
Where should I start looking for a builder?
A great starting point is a professional association such as the Master Builders Association (ACT). Check the ''Find a builder'' section on its website. Also research online for names and ask your architect if you’re using one. Real estate agents you know may have insights and so might friends or colleagues with first-hand experience.
What can I expect from my builder?
Definitely expect a professional approach and strong communications so you’re clear on project steps and kept up to date. You can expect your builder or renovator to meet deadlines, unless there are extenuating circumstances you’re informed about, or unforeseen circumstances that can impact on a project (including crazy weather).
Should I get more than one quote for a builder?
It’s wise to get more than one quote, especially if your project is complex and/or going to cost a lot. When seeking quotes, do so in a consistent way so you can compare apples with apples.
How much do builders charge?
This depends on many factors, including the type, size and timing of your project, as well as its location. Also, different builders have different skills and levels of experience that can impact on costs. The best approach is to meet a builder and explain your project. Then ask for detailed and itemised quotes so you can see what they’re charging for.
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