Are you really saying that you paid the builder money without even seeing/reviewing/checking/assessing the contract?
What did you sign?
Maybe clarify what has happened and then people can provide some advice…

At first glance, it sounds like poor workmanship to me. That is: plastering before bricking with water trapped in the cavity.
Too many factors unknown for me so I'd say ask…

It looks like the tree roots have already damaged the paving, assuming its the tree roots. I'd say it is and unless you solve the problem it will get worse…

I'd be very wary of such a product. Aluminium can be prone to corrosion, powder coating will fail if not done perfectly and warranties mean nothing in most cases. Will…

leanneP1959..... who are these more reputable companies? List a few here so other readers can benefit from your experience.

Sorry, no answers at all.

Surely your designer has answers to all your questions?
If so, it would be nice to include their answers here so we can all learn something.
(Of course, always good to get…

If not in direct contact with water (like rain) and not in a moist environment (like over water) and provided there is good air circulation and provided it is only…

Seems to me you need to promptly get your own building certifier or inspector to check these and other future issues.

Sorry, don't know costs, but there are a couple of very important principles you need to get right (and now) ....
(1) never agree to any "upgrade" unless you first know…

Insulating internal walls is a good idea - I always do it. Helps reduce noise transmission and helps with thermal insulation.
Do you want thermal insulation or acoustic insulation? It makes…

I've had direct and extremely unpleasant dealings with Stratco patios. It is the worst company I have ever dealt with. Utterly incompetent, expensive, poor quality product and no idea on…

The only sensible thing to do is to meet with whoever gave your approvals and figure out how best to rectify the situation.
Do not wait. Face the problem and fix…

Yes there is a better way to seal air gaps. There is an acoustic sealant made specifically for that purpose - can't remember the name. Also look into better options…

Answer to first question: No it won't be okay.
Answer to second question: because mass is critical to suppress sound.
Sound suppression is very tricky so you need to do lots of…

Okay, then the choice is really about the build quality of the door itself which means the brand name. Sorry I can't recommend one or the other so best to…

Depends on what you want to achieve - presumably you want the extra "sound proofing" of the heavier door.
If that is the case you'll be dissappointed since the sound rating…

Good questions but the best answer will be obtained by visiting (ie: interviewing) a couple of house designers and/or builders and ask them.
You may find it challenging to locate a…

It depends.....
They should be charging you some $ for their time and resources in sourcing the product. After all, it does cost something to get the products. That price…

No, a blade for aluminium won't survive the first cut. You need a blade for cutting mild steel.

I'm guessing you mean your mitre saw is 5000 rpm and not 500 rpm.
"They" are correct re RPM. Ensure your new metal cutting blade max RPM (see the label) is…

You cannot simply compare plasterboard with brick. Each can meet your acoustic requirements but the important thing to remember is the thickness and material content of each wall. There are…

The retaining wall looks fine to me apart from (maybe?) the lower end which seems to be only 3 or so courses high and leaning a little. Just get that…

Since you are in the design stage then I would direct your questions, in writing of course, to your designer.
Depending on the trust you have in the competence of your…

Well these guys are not looking good...
I sent them a written enquiry last week and they have not yet replied. If they cannot respond to a simple enquiry they certainly…

Assuming the structure of your cabinetry is good then I would DIY everything as follows:
- replace your counter tops entirely,
- replace all drawer runners with soft close runners,
- for cupboard…

Thanks alexp79. Is that, however, a recommendation based on personal experience or based on someone you personally know who has used them?

Looking for recommendations on a modular home builder who is based between Port Macquarie and Newcastle NSW.
Suggestions welcomed to give me a head start on the due diligence task.

It seems very clear to me that your contract states that a security account does NOT need to be established so the answer to the builder is NO.
If in doubt…

If you don't want to annoy the neighbours then simply get yourself some good head phones. For me the sound is much better using headphones.
The NCC (National Construction Code) has…