
Pointers to success with building projects; Sticking to budget on a new build
The first piece of advice on sticking to budget on a new build would be to make sure that your initial budget is as realistic and comprehensive as possible. Complete Budget Make sure that not only do you properly account for the physical build costs, but that you allow for all of the hidden expenses. The…

Pointers to success with building projects; Assessing building costs in the ground
Calculating the cost of getting your house out of the ground is probably the trickiest part of any estimate. Above ground it is possible to define almost exactly what materials and labour you require for the construction. Below ground is a potential minefield for the unwary. Nevertheless, by taking a step-by-step approach you can reduce…

Pointers to success with building projects; The hidden costs of building part 2
The hidden costs of building Part 2 As well as basic build costs involved in the actual construction of a new build there are a number of “secondary “ costs that are often forgotten or miscalculated during the budgeting stage such as connection to services and insurance. Design costs Architects fees can cost as much…

Pointers to success with building projects; The hidden costs of building part 1
The hidden costs of building Part 1 Previously we have suggested that using typical square foot/metre costs as they can be extremely misleading unless you have previously built a particular style and quality of house, in the same area with the same labour force. Experience shows there are very many variables that can significantly affect…

Pointers to success with building projects; site safety & security
Adrian Wild shares his experience on how to ensure safe & secure construction sites Site safety is extremely important. It is critical that you take out adequate insurance, which will cover you for most accidents, but only if you can demonstrate that you took precautions to avoid them. You will have heard of CDM (Construction…