I think I can answer part of this:
Usually, Ben's recommendation for Total Alkalinity is 80- 125 especially for gunite/plaster pools. Generally, as you know, pH is easier to keep constant when the T/A is at the higher end.

Other than that, I would agree with Chem_Geek's advice to do what the builder says chemically to avoid giving him an excuse to void the warranty.

The Taylor 2006 or 2006c kit is an excellent choice. Equally good is the Leslie's FAS-DPD Chlorine Test service kit, but Leslie's stores rarely sell it. It's available on-line.

The best kit of all is Ben's test kit available at his sister site to this one, PoolSolutions.com. It's ONE BIG problem is that Ben (PoolDoc) hasn't been selling it for awhile, and, until he announces that he's selling and shipping again, it's just not available.

Still, any of these kits will quickly pay for themselves and you will wonder how you ever got along without them!