What Your Builder's Credit History Can Tell You

You're about to invest hundreds of thousands of dollars into building or renovating your home—but how much do you really know about the builder you're hiring?

While most Australians compare quotes, browse reviews, and check licences, few dig deeper into the warning signs that could reveal financial instability, recurring disputes, or other hidden risks before signing a contract.

In this episode, we sit down with Angus Luffman, founder of Trust Signal and one of Australia's pioneers in credit reporting, to explore why builder due diligence has become more important than ever. Angus explains how information already sitting in tribunal records, company histories, insolvency data, licensing registers, and insurance eligibility can paint a much clearer picture of a builder's track record—if you know where to look.

Together, we unpack why builder collapses are rarely as sudden as they appear, the red flags homeowners and investors often overlook, and why construction remains one of Australia's highest-risk industries. We also discuss the emotional side of building, why consumers tend to skip proper due diligence, and the practical questions everyone should ask before committing to one of the biggest financial decisions of their lives.

Whether you're building your dream home, renovating, or investing in your next property project, this conversation will help you approach the process with greater confidence, ask better questions, and avoid costly mistakes before construction even begins.

Episode Highlights02:03 – Why Builder Due Diligence Matters More Than Ever

05:37 – What Tribunal Records Can Reveal About a Builder

07:21 – Can You Predict a Builder Collapse?

09:27 – Phoenixing: The Warning Signs to Watch For

19:41 – Could Banks Help Prevent Builder Collapses?

21:27 – Renovating? The Insurance Mistakes to Avoid

24:42 – The Builder Red Flags Most People Miss