Before works start on site, we arrange and attend a Pre-Start meeting with the builder and the client to finalise all arrangements including making sure that a signed building contract is in place. This sets out everyone's roles and responsibilities and the procedures to be followed. At the Pre-Start meeting we would discuss and decide on such things as
- insurance of the building work
- start and completion dates
- Contract Sum
- working hours
- access arrangements
- proposed programme
- any temporary accommodation required (eg temporary kitchen)
- valuation and payment schedule
- site meetings
- Party Wall Agreement conditions
- client supply items
- subcontracted work
- contact details
- keys
Once the build starts we would attend regular site meetings when we would inspect the work in progress, monitor the programme and record decisions and instructions. We would circulate a record of the site meeting to all parties thereby ensuring that everyone is kept informed. If any variations to the work are agreed, the builder would normally be required to price the work before execution. We would value the work completed on a regular basis, recording priced variations so that at all times the client is aware of the estimated outturn cost and is only required to pay for work that has been properly completed.
This enables time, cost and quality to be managed on an on going basis and means that the client is kept fully informed and involved in the build from start to finish.
During the build, aswell as working closely with the builder we would also liaise with other consultants and the Building Control officer on an ongoing basis. We like to take a pro-active and collaborative approach to the build so that all parties are encouraged to work as a team. This allows open and constructive dialogue to take place and everyone is motivated to make a positive contribution.
When the build is completed, we would carry out a final inspection, make sure all the necessary paperwork is in place, such as certificates, guarantees and operating manuals and then issue a completion certificate. If any subsequent defects arise we would inspect and issue instructions for their rectification. After the defects period elapses, we would produce a final account.
We recognise that for homeowners, the build can be an unsettling aswell as an exciting experience, particularly at times when their home has been dismantled but not at a stage where they can start to visualise the finished result . We have the experience to be able to guide clients through these periods so that they can ultimately stand back and admire a successfully completed project and enjoy their new home.
