8 Tips to Deal with Supply Timelines

Thankfully we are seeing supply issues lighten up after years of constant delays.

We are also seeing suppliers start to engage in price matching which means that they are hungry for business - great news if you are building or thinking about starting that project.

BUT… delays still happen, however with a proper schedule, knowing your selections, quantities and timelines you can get out in front.

💵 Reserve cash to be able to pay for deposits up front to lock in materials.

💵 Know your quantities - this one is so important. Make sure you have your Fixtures & Fittings schedule set. Know how many sqm tiles, flooring etc you need. Make your selections EARLY and be upfront with the supplier - ask what quantities are they sitting on, when is shipments coming in if they are low on stock. That way you won’t have to go though choosing again because your first option isn’t going to arrive in time.

💵 Look at the fine print of order confirmations - some say quote valid for 30 days. Confirming within this timeframe ensures that you are not subject to price increases.

Building around June 30? Most suppliers use this as an opportunity increase prices so put this in your diary and ASK if there is any increases coming up? This will help you budget and potentially save $$$

💵 Take possession of goods before you need them. Obviously its not practical to sit on timber trusses or bricks… but think about the things you can store so that when they are needed on site you have them there. Taps, tiles, lighting, sinks and basins, door hardware are all good examples of this.

💵 Cabinetry - this is a big one. Many cabinet makers still have a backlog of work, so get this trade locked in super early.

💵 Know who you want to work with - finding the right trade to get the finish you want is so important (and the good ones are BUSY) so do you research early on so you can lock in your no 1 preference at the time you need them onsite.

💵 TALK with your team - know what is coming up in the next weeks and month and be ready for what they need. This will ensure a (somewhat) easier flow on site from materials to trades.