In all cases, Hopkins says, contractors were able to create good lots and solidly built houses. Speedy work wins rewards Many builders are pressing forward despite the land and labor crunches. The average time for building a new house ranges from three to six months, depending on the company and the time of year. Bill Bondurant, an area production manager for Squires in Charlotte, says that although the company's first concern is quality, the business demands speed. Most superintendents can earn bonuses based, in part, on how quickly they build houses.
Builders contend they try hard to address most problems.
Most of the larger companies have separate warranty departments that respond to customer complaints. Some also schedule dates when they will come back and reinspect their work. But some builders are leaving homeowners in a bind. To become a licensed home builder in North Carolina, contractors don't have to be bonded or carry liability insurance. In South Carolina, bonding will become mandatory in 2000.