5 Key Questions to Ask Your Builder Before Breaking Ground on Your New House
Building a new house is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make — especially in Liberia, where land, materials, and labor costs can vary widely depending on location and quality. Whether you’re constructing a family home in Monrovia or an investment property in Gbarnga, choosing the right builder is critical.
Before breaking ground, it’s essential to ask the right questions to ensure your project runs smoothly, stays within budget, and meets all legal and safety standards.
Here are five key questions every homeowner should ask their builder before starting construction:
1. Are You Licensed and Insured?
This is the most important question of all.
A licensed builder has met national and local requirements for professional conduct and technical skill. In Liberia, reputable builders will have:
- A valid business license from the Liberia Business Registry
- Affiliation with recognized construction associations (e.g., LCCI)
- Workers’ compensation and liability insurance
✅ Why it matters: Insurance protects you from financial liability if accidents occur during construction. Licensing ensures accountability and professionalism.
2. Can You Provide References or Past Project Examples?
Experience speaks volumes. Ask to see photos or visit completed projects similar to what you’re planning.
You should also request contact information for past clients so you can:
- Ask about communication and transparency
- Learn if the project was completed on time and within budget
- Get feedback on quality and after-sales service
✅ Pro Tip: Visit at least one live site or finished home to see the builder’s work firsthand.
3. What Is Included in the Quote or Contract?
It’s not uncommon for homeowners to be surprised by hidden fees once construction begins.
Ask your builder to clearly outline:
- Labor and material costs
- Permitting and design fees
- Waste removal and cleanup
- Contingency plans and change-order policies
✅ Red flags to watch for:
- Vague or overly optimistic timelines
- Missing details on finishes or fixtures
- No mention of delays or weather-related issues
A transparent contract gives you peace of mind and helps avoid disputes later.
4. Who Will Be Managing the Project Day-to-Day?
Knowing who is in charge makes a big difference in how smoothly your build goes.
Find out:
- If there’s a dedicated project manager
- How often updates will be provided
- Who to contact with questions or concerns
✅ Bonus question: “Will subcontractors be used, and are they vetted and insured?”
A reliable builder will assign a point person to keep you informed and involved throughout the process.
5. How Do You Handle Permits, Approvals, and Local Regulations?
In Liberia, securing permits from the Liberia Land Authority (LLA) or Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) is mandatory.
Ask your builder:
- If they handle permit applications
- What documents you need to provide
- How long the approval process usually takes
✅ Why this is important: Non-compliance can lead to fines, delays, or even demolition orders. A professional builder knows how to navigate these systems efficiently.
🏡 Final Thoughts: Choose Wisely, Build Confidently
Asking these five questions before construction begins can help you avoid costly mistakes and unnecessary stress. At Oasis Builders, we believe in transparency, accountability, and delivering value to every client — from the first consultation to the final walkthrough.
When you choose the right builder, you’re not just hiring a contractor — you’re partnering with someone who shares your vision and is committed to bringing it to life.
💬 Ready to Start Building?
Let us help you build a beautiful, durable, and legally compliant home in Liberia. We’re happy to answer any questions and walk you through every step of the process.
📞 Call us at [Phone Number]
📧 Email us at [Email Address]
📍 Visit our office in [City, Liberia]
