RESOLVING ISSUES DURING YOUR BUILDING PROJECT

It is not uncommon to hear that someone has run into problems with their building project.

Construction is complicated and changes often need to be made once a project has begun.  Change can be required for all sorts of reasons: unexpected weather, unexpected ground conditions, delays with materials or contractors, and design changes.

Variations

These changes can result in variations to the building program and increased costs.  It can be difficult to keep track of how changes have affected the overall budget and who is responsible for the changes.

Written Agreement

Having a clear budget and a written contract that sets out each parties rights and responsibilities at the outset helps.  There are various versions of building contracts available.  It is important to read it and particularly focus on sections that deal with timescales, costs, variations and penalty payments.

Budget

A quantity surveyor working in partnership from the design process stage onwards is the ideal way to help provide you with the cost certainty you need.

Your quantity surveyor will work to your architect’s plans, scope and site specifics and use our industry knowledge and expertise to produce an early budget cost known as an Order of Cost Estimate (“OCE”). Once signed off, the OCE becomes your starting budget and reference point for comparison as the project and costs develop.

Monitor progress

Carefully monitor the build. When unexpected things happen, or changes are required keep a clear record of what has happened and what has been agreed. This could be an email confirming what you have discussed with your builder, what changes are required, how that will affect the timescale or build program and cost.

Expert Help

If the relationship between you and your builder is breaking down, an independent review from a third party can help avoid an expensive dispute. We can assist by inspecting the work and providing an expert opinion about the work that has been completed and how much that work should cost.

TIMMS EIDA’s top tips

  • An agreed budget – Have a clear budget that includes all the works.
  • Careful monitoring – When the building works are underway it is important to monitor progress and keep a record of issues that have occurred and changes to program or cost that have been agreed.
  • Written agreement – A written agreement, signed by both parties before the works start. This will record each parties rights and responsibilities and help avoid disputes.
  • Expert advice – Before your relationship with your builder breaks down, consider seeking an independent third party opinion to inspect the work and provide a report.