They looked legit. The price was sharp. The quote felt right. But six months later, the builder’s gone, the projects half done, and no one’s picking up the phone.
When you’re planning a new deck, patio, or outdoor space, most of the focus naturally goes to the design, the materials, and the price. But there’s one factor that’s just as important, if not more, and that’s the builder you choose to partner with. In recent years, we’ve seen a growing number of construction businesses on the Sunshine Coast close their doors. Some were small one-man outfits, others were larger companies. Regardless of size, when a builder collapses, the impact on their clients is often the same:
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Projects stall or stop completely
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Warranties become worthless
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There’s no one to call if problems show up later
Even if your project reaches completion, having a builder you can’t contact again puts all the responsibility back on your shoulders. We’ve seen it happen, and it’s not just inconvenient; it can turn a simple fix into a costly and time-consuming issue that affects a busy lifestyle and can be a stressful process. At Stilus, we’ve been approached by homeowners looking for help after being left in the lurch by a contractor who’s no longer in business. Some of these are projects we originally quoted but didn’t win. And while we’re always willing to help where we can, we’d much rather clients avoid that situation altogether.
What Price Are You Willing to Pay for Peace of Mind?
We understand that budgets matter. But chasing the cheapest quote is one of the most common reasons people end up in trouble.
Too often, lower quotes come with hidden costs:
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Underquoting to win the job, then piling on variations later
Tip: Always ensure you have a clear ‘scope of work’ in writing. If it’s not written down, don’t assume it’s included. -
Cutting corners on materials or labour quality to meet price
Tip: Know exactly what materials and finishes are included in the proposal. Ask for product specifications. -
Lack of service or care
Service is often assumed but not always specified. We all want a well-managed project, but is that part of the price?
Tip: Ask how the project is managed. Who will coordinate the schedule, oversee contractors, and ensure quality control?
The price on the page might look attractive—but it’s meaningless if the builder disappears, delivers subpar work, or leaves you managing trades on your own.
What Real Value Looks Like
Instead of looking for the lowest price, look for a builder who offers long-term value:
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A stable company with systems, staff, and a solid local reputation
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Transparent quoting, realistic timeframes, and open communication
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A team that’s growing and passionate about their work—and still around when you need them
When it comes to decks, patios, pools, and outdoor spaces—where safety, structure, and finish all matter—investing in the right builder pays off every single time.
So ask yourself:
Do you really know who’s building your outdoor space?
When a Builder Folds, It’s More Than Just Inconvenient
Unlike big home builds with staged payments and complex contracts, many outdoor projects are fast-paced and flexible. That can make it easier for rogue operators to get in, take money, and vanish without delivering the goods.
Here’s what can go wrong if your contractor goes under mid-project:
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The project stops immediately. With no builder in business, there’s no one to manage trades or finish the job.
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No warranty. Even if the deck is built, there’s no one left to return for defects or maintenance issues.
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You’re out of pocket. Deposits or progress payments are often unrecoverable once a company folds.
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Finding another builder is tricky. Taking over half-done projects is messy—and many reputable builders won’t touch them.
We’ve been called in more than once to “rescue” projects that started off with good intentions but ended in disaster. The truth? A beautiful concept means nothing if the business behind it isn’t stable.
Local Builders That Didn’t Make It
Unfortunately, this isn’t just theory—it’s happening right here on the Sunshine Coast. A quick online search will confirm the trend. These builders no longer exist, and their clients now have no recourse if issues arise.
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Odyssey Landscapes went into liquidation in 2023, leaving projects incomplete. The director later reopened under a different business name.
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Shore Homes Pty Ltd folded in 2024 after failing to meet financial requirements, leaving unfinished landscaping and outdoor builds.
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Local Build Pty Ltd collapsed in 2023. The director reappeared with a new name and no QBCC licence, leaving former clients in the lurch.
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MC Coastal Constructions shut down in 2024, owing hundreds of thousands and walking away from outdoor upgrades across the region.
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National Construction Management, a long-time Sunshine Coast builder, entered administration in 2023—proof that even well-known names aren’t always built to last.
It might not hurt now, but if foundational or structural issues appear years down the line, having no builder to turn to can make it costly and difficult to resolve.
Whether it’s a $30,000 patio or a $400,000 pool and outdoor space, if the builder collapses, the pain is real.
Why Building with Stilus Means Peace of Mind
When you build am outdoor space with Stilus Design and Construction, you can build with confidence. You’re getting the backing of a reliable, debt-free business that’s been building and growing for over 12 years.
Here’s what sets us apart:
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Long-term stability. We’ve been here since 2013 and we’re not going anywhere.
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A solid team. From project managers to carpenters, our in-house crew ensures your project doesn’t rely on one person’s availability.
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We’re business-loan free. That means no pressure from lenders and no cashflow roulette behind the scenes. We operate lean and smart.
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Fully licensed and insured. Your project is covered with QBCC Home Warranty Insurance (where applicable), plus our own workmanship warranty.
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We prioritise transparency. You get clear contracts, real timelines, and a builder who actually answers the phone.
We also take pride in the little things: clean job sites, quality finishes, and communication that keeps you in the loop from start to finish.
Before You Build, Ask These Questions
If you’re planning a deck, pergola, or outdoor space, make sure your builder can confidently answer the following:
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How long have you been in business? Can I see recent examples of your work?
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Do you have staff, or are you a one-man operation?
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Are you licensed and insured with the QBCC? What’s your licence history?
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Who manages the project schedule and oversees quality control?
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What is your quality assurance process?
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What are your warranty terms, and how do I contact you for follow-up?
Let’s Build Something That Lasts
Outdoor projects are some of the most rewarding to build. They transform how you live and entertain. But when the wrong builder is involved, what should be exciting can quickly turn stressful.
At Stilus Design and Construction, we’ve spent over a decade perfecting decks, patios, and outdoor entertaining areas that stand the test of time and we back every build with integrity, stability, and pride.
Want to build with confidence?
Let’s have a conversation. No pressure, no pushy sales talk, just honest advice and a proven process with a team you can trust.
Outdoor Entertaining
We all love it! It’s where food is shared, laughter is harvested and lasting memories are created.