We are instructed to give cost advice on construction projects on all sorts of buildings for different sectors. Over our almost fifty-year history we have been involved in a wide range of schemes from new builds to the refurbishment of ancient buildings and everything in between. But by far the largest proportion of our work is on residential properties.
One of our specialisms is working on heritage houses and these are often located on large rural estates with a main residence, outbuildings, and cottages.
The property featured in this image was one such large family estate and comprised extensive maintenance and development of the entire estate. The works were divided into various individual phases and have continued over a period of almost twenty years.
The assignments included the sympathetic refurbishment and conservation of the grade II listed mansion house and refurbishing and upgrading cottages. The estate cottages had fallen into disrepair and been unoccupied for a number of years. These were completely refurbished and upgraded with modern facilities including heating from renewable sources, electrics, insulation, kitchens, and bathrooms.
A neglected gatehouse was restored, and an underground security facility and staff accommodation were added. The abandoned estate roads and driveways were reinstated. The expansive grounds re-landscaped, an outdoor swimming pool, greenhouses and potting sheds constructed, and the walled kitchen garden was restored and now provides fresh produce for the family.
Conservation of heritage buildings can be expensive, and our role is to help the client obtain best value for money. We work with the client’s design team and prepare initial cost budgets considering cost planning and life cycle cost advice. This leads on to preparation of tender documents and administering the tender process so that the client engaging the right specialists and contractors. Once building works are underway, we monitor the construction, review and approve interim valuations and give advice and agree the cost of variations. Following completion, we negotiate the final account and help the team to resolve disputes and claims.
