How to manage your self build project

Taking on a self build project for a new home or extension is challenging but very rewarding.  Here are some tips from Vision Development that will help you to complete a quality building within timescale and budget.  It is assumed that you have already obtained full planning permission and building regulations approval.

1. Make sure that you have site insurance for public liability and theft.  You may well need to arrange container storage on site.
2. Check the Health & Safety Executive website with regards to the mandatory Health & Safety signs required on your site.  You will be able to obtain any signs required from Display Signs.
3. Ensure that your site is kept secure with adequate security fencing.  You may also need intruder alarms, CCTV and an alarm response service from a security firm.
4. You will need temporary supplies of electricity and water, as well as WCs, for the various building trades that will work on your site.
5. Compile detailed lists of the items you are purchasing and send these out to several merchants to obtain the best prices.
6. Get fixed price detailed quotes from sub-contractors.
7. Check that sub-contractors quotations have covered all your requirements.  Don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure you understand their content.
8. Ensure that the sub-contractors are fully insured.  It would be in your best interest to have a written contract between both parties.
9. Be sure that plumbing and electrical trades are able to supply you with the necessary qualification documentation needed for building control.
10. All variations in contract should be in writing and any cost adjustments need to be agreed in writing.
11. Make decisions in good time, especially in relation to kitchens and bathrooms, to ensure that the plumbing and electrics are in the correct locations.
12. Order the external joinery in good time to be able to link up with the erecting of the timber frame so that your house is secure at the time of the completion of the timber frame.
13. You will need to draw up a programme of works detailing when trades will be required on site and for what duration.
14. Link the programme of works with your funding source to ensure that you have correct funds available at the necessary times to pay the various building trades and sub-contractors.
15. Fix a budget at the start of the contract. You will find our cost calculator will be of help.
16. Allow a 10% margin for contingencies.
17. Stick to your budget.

This is designed as a guide you will find other information on our website. We are always available to answer queries you may have and assist where we can in your site management.  Please contact us, email us or call us on 0118 971 2181.