PROCUREMENT – DESIGN & BUILD CONTRACT

In construction procurement means the process of acquiring the materials and services to complete the project.

The three most common procurement routes are known as traditional, design and build and construction management.

Each has advantages and disadvantages.  Selecting the best procurement route depends on the client’s objectives in relation to time, cost and quality.

MAIN FEATURES

One organisation is responsible for both the design and the construction for an agreed lump sum price.

The same company is the single point of contact for client which should simplify the process for the client.

There are several different types of design and build contract.

The Quantity Surveyor role varies depending on the type of arrangement the client has with the contractor and how quickly the contractor is appointed.

There is a risk that the contractor prioritises ease of building over design.  This may compromise the quality of build.

When appointing a company to provide a design be clear about whether you will own the drawings should you wish to appoint a different organisation at any stage.

The contractor may reduce quality or quantity of materials to remain within budget.

The design and build approach is suitable for all clients including inexperienced or client requiring cost certainty and fast track projects. However, we would not recommend this route for complex projects or historic buildings.

WHY CHOOSE THE DESIGN AND BUILD CONTRACT ROUTE?

  • The contractor takes all the risk
  • Having a single point of contact makes communication easier for client
  • Construction can commence whilst the design is being developed so the overall time to completion can be reduced.

RISKS

  • Ease of construction takes precedence over design
  • You may worry that your contractor is reducing quantity or quality of materials to maximise profit.
  • Design options may be limited

TIMMS EIDA’S TOP TIP

A Quantity Surveyor like Timms Eida can review your design and build drawings to provide a budget estimate so that you have confidence that you are getting good value from your project.