pre – construction
The key to a successful project is preparation. We work through three the project there are a number of stages that we need to work through. Most projects need planning permission or a certificate of lawful development if you want to extend or alter the property’s exterior
+ stage 1 - site survey
It is essential we that base our work on an accurate set of drawings. Our team will measure the entire building with lazers and produce a set of computer aided design (CAD) drawings upon which your entire project will be based.
+ stage 2 - the design and planning permission
design
We specialise in the design of beautiful homes, we don’t work on retail, healthcare or anything else. We have specialist skills to take your initial ideas, develop them, add to them and deliver them through the critical planning phase. We will explore design proposals informed by our knowledge of planning policy and shaped by our realtime cost feedback loop, to arrive at the best design for your home. We are able to provide clients with an accurate 3d ‘walk through’ of their new home to help them make those last-minute, but crucial, design decisions.
submission
Once your design is finalised and we clear on budget and planning policy, we will prepare and submit your application for planning permission or permitted development. When the application is with the council for consideration we will act on your behalf to negotiate and liaise with the council during the eight week process.
+ stage 3 - the detailed construction drawings
In our experience, construction projects are most successful when every possible decision has been made prior to the first swing of a hammer. We will produce a comprehensive set of construction drawings, schedules and specifications to ensure that ambiguity is ruled out, and to achieve a high quality, design driven home.
Every construction project requires the input of a professional team of consultants. We will manage the entire project and advise on consultants/experts which based on our experience are necessary, we then coordinate the production of their work. We will source quotations from experts that we regularly work with and forward them to you for your approval.
structural engineer
If structural alterations or additions are required. A qualified Structural Engineer will assist throughout the design process and provide a full Engineering construction package including calculations and steel construction/ connection details. This information will take c.4 weeks to produce.
party wall surveyor
A Party Wall Surveyor will agree the legal contracts between you and your neighbours to ensure that both properties remain safe during the build, as well as set out the conditions of the project such as the hours of construction and access requirements. This process can take up to eight weeks or more and is the most common cause of delay on of work starting on site.
building control
All construction works must be monitored and signed off by Building Control, which ensures that the quality of the works and design have meet the national standards. A building control inspector will inspect the construction as it progresses and ultimately certify it as fit for purpose.
scope of works/construction quote
Upon completion of the construction drawings and receipt of consultant information, we will prepare a fully itemised quote. The quote will quantify in detail the project as described in the construction drawings, we will provide our quote and a blank document which you can use as a check price or carry out a full competitive tender. To produce a quote takes ten days to complete.
contract and deposit
Once the quote is agreed we generate a contract for the works. This is normally a JCT contract. Attached to the contract will be the detailed programme and the payment schedule.
the build
All projects are managed personally by us!
On site we have built up a strong core team of site managers, trusted general builders and specialist trades, from roofers and joiners to tilers and decorators and work with a select number of long-term trusted suppliers, from specialist paint finishers and structural glaziers.
Our goal is to deliver your project to high quality, while keeping the build carefully managed and you the client fully updated and engaged, every step of the way.
+ pre-commencement meeting
Before we start on site we will meet for a pre-commencement meeting, introduce you to your site foreman and talk through any queries, concerns or thoughts. We understand that a construction project is an exciting but daunting prospect so will be there to field any concerns prior to the start on site.
+ the build
For the duration of your project we will ensure that our sites are compliant with health and safety and manage all liaison with the council and building control. We constantly check the standard and quality of the work. We have considerable experience of working with any specialist sub-contractors, should they be required and use modern technologies and materials.
+ project management
We like to have a weekly site meeting to run through progress updates, budget updates and general progress, but we are contactable 6 days a week if you need us.
+ completion
At the end of the project, we will carry out a complete inspection of the works with you and together we will sign off the project. You will be left with all the manuals, warranties and instructions for equipment that has been fitted in your new home.
+ retention
Throughout the construction period, you will withhold a fixed amount of each payment you make to us. It is normal that some small crack may appear o