ABSOLUTE HOMES
Building Variations Explained: What You Need to Know
If you’ve started looking into building a new home, you may have already come across the term “variation.” It can sound a bit intimidating, often paired with the warning:
“Be careful — changes can be costly.”
And while that’s not untrue, it doesn’t tell the full story. With the right approach, variations don’t need to be stressful. Let’s break down what they actually are, why they can affect your budget, and how we handle them at Absolute Homes.
What is a Variation?
Put simply, a variation is any change you make to your signed building contract. These changes can be big or small — for example:
- Tweaking the floor plan
- Changing the kitchen or bathroom finishes
- Adding skylights, storage, or other features
- Adjusting the electrical plan
You can request a variation at almost any point in the build, but the earlier it happens, the smoother (and more affordable) it usually is.
Why Do Variations Add to the Cost?
There are a few reasons why changes can come with a price tag:
- Work already completed - If something has to be pulled apart or redone on site (like moving a wall or changing electrical wiring), it affects multiple trades and can impact the build timeline.
- Extra admin and coordination - Every change has to be quoted, scheduled, approved, and communicated to the team and suppliers. That takes time and resources.
- Supplier differences - Your new choice might be a different price, or need to be ordered specially, which can add to costs.
- Builder fees - Many builders add large margins or blanket admin charges to every change — which can quickly make even small tweaks expensive.
The Best Time to Make Changes
Without a doubt, the easiest and most cost-effective time to make adjustments is before your final plans are submitted to council. At Absolute Homes, we also encourage clients to use their colour consultation meeting to refine choices, because this is when changes are straightforward and don’t affect the timeline.
Once consent is granted and construction has begun, variations are still possible — but they can involve more complexity, cost, and in some cases even require updated council approvals which could delay your build.
Tips to Keep Variation Costs Under Control
- Plan thoroughly from the start
Spend time on your design and specifications before signing off. Ask questions, look through inspiration, and make sure you’re happy with the details.
- Understand the process
Every builder handles variations differently. Ask what fees apply, whether you’ll be credited for downgrades, and how pricing is calculated.
- Always get it in writing
Don’t agree to any change without a clear written quote showing the cost, lead time, and impact on your build.
- Think about timing
The later you make a change, the more it’s likely to affect your budget and timeline.
How Absolute Homes Handles Variations
We know changes are part of the journey, which is why we’ve set up a clear and transparent process to keep things fair.
- Specification stage: While your plans are with the architect and council, you’ll have around 4 weeks to confirm your colours and specifications. Once finalised, we place orders with suppliers to avoid delays.
- Guidance along the way: You’ll work with a dedicated Design Consultant who will help you bring your ideas to life and provide advice if you’re considering upgrades.
- Clear structure: After your selections are signed off, any changes requested will incur a $250 admin fee, plus the cost of materials and labour. Major changes may affect your timeline, but you’ll always know this upfront.
- Build book: Every client receives a build book outlining inclusions and specifications, so expectations are clear and surprises are avoided.
This way, you know exactly what to expect and can make informed decisions without worrying about hidden extras.
Why Build with Absolute Homes?
We’re a local, family-owned company based in Darfield, building homes across Canterbury. We take pride in delivering homes that are warm, affordable, and built to last—and we genuinely care about your experience. From your first enquiry to the day you move in, we’re with you every step of the way.