Do I need a Construction Consultant

There are lots of good reasons to employ a Project Manager or Construction Consultant for you Renovation or Self Build Project!

“The Project Manager is the most important role after the architect..”

Kevin McCloud from Grand Designs goes on to explain that building project management is the most important role during a building project as one individual takes the responsibility for seeing the whole project through from start to finish!

In this blog we explain there are many good reasons to employ a project manager for your extension, renovation or build project. As a team of construction consultants we have a wealth of experience in a diverse range of construction projects.

Sometimes this role is questioned as to its importance and questions arise. We don’t want you to take our word for what Keven McCloud says but we do want to answer some of those questions, especially ‘Do I need a Construction Consultant’.

Do I need a Construction Consultant?

Well, that is up to you! If you have some knowledge of construction or building projects, then perhaps not. If you are determined to get that feel good satisfied feeling of ‘I’ve done it‘, then again, maybe not. However, in many cases we have found that even the most organised, determined professionals still need a little expert advice.

Our favourite phrase is ‘You don’t know, what you don’t know!’ Many times we have had clients tell us that we have filled a knowledge gap, or were able to help with a certain aspect of a build they didn’t think they needed to know about!

Equally, you need to be sure that you are familiar with the way you have decided to build or extend. Perhaps you are a self builder using ICF, or are you renovating and integrating new renewable technologies. If you are not aware of the processes and procedures, how can you check that your build team are doing things right?

Here are two case studies where our clients needed some help. The first one was an experienced self builder who just wanted some things rubber stamped. He just wanted help when he needed it, and the freedom to get on where he could. Secondly, our client was the most organised professional we have come across. He knew exactly what he wanted to achieve, but became overwhelmed by the sheer volume of decisions and day to day management.

We recognise each project is different and will require a bespoke service.

When should you involve a building project manager?

We feel it is best to engage your Building Project Managers at the earliest stages of a building project. This way they can advise on plans and have an early input to decision making.

However, it is OK to join a project part of the way through. No matter where they’re involved, they should understand what it is you want to achieve and how to best deliver against your objectives.

What does it cost?

At CLPM you can choose a complete service or a solution to individual tasks. We have a number of service options to suit all projects and budgets. Understanding that some clients want to be more involved in their projects than others is so important, and we are happy to be as involved as you want and need. We are happy to chat with you about possible costs, and what the right service options would be for you.

What does Project Management Involve?

Early intervention can include a Design Review to check the plans include all the required details to build from. It still amazes us that there are often things like groundwork or drainage missing!

We can help you build a Programme to work from, and plan a Schedule of Works. Our QS team can assist with Budgeting, Tendering to find a build team, and Value Engineering. It is essential that your designs are affordable.

We can also highlight the potential risk factors through our Principal Design service.

Our team can then help with on site with regular visits and provide site support or contract administration. Controlling the individual tradesmen to get them to site in the right order and with the right information is key. Checking on individual invoices and telling you what you are okay to pay. They will keep a track of all the project constraints such as time, cost and quality.

What about Sustainability?

Sustainability is an everyday part of any building project. The challenge can be how best to weave sustainability into a project with practical answers that can deliver improvements to a client’s building and enjoyment of their house. We have a team of sustainability experts, who can help make the right decisions for your circumstances. They have extensive experience of renewables and energy efficiency for both residential and commercial projects.

Is it all happy ever after?

We’re really good at getting clients over the finish line with their dreams still intact. We act as the client’s advocate, getting to know what matters most to them and managing the process so compromises on spec are kept to a minimum. We know the role of a construction consultant can often seen as a luxuary, or one that can be done by someone else. In reality our experts really do make a difference.

How do we reduce risk?

Regularly attending site and checking on everything, we monitor the programme so we know if there are likely to be any delays. We work with the architect and contractor to ensure plans are feasible, and with our QS team we keep your finances in check. We’re there at those crucial times ensuring that the work is done on time and to budget, so you don’t have to be.

How do we reduce hassle?

We deal with as much of the project as you need us to. Whether it’s looking after every aspect of the project management including costs or just hand holding, we tailor our services to suit your needs.

Trusted in the Industry

CLPM are now regular experts in the Ask and Expert area of Grand Designs. Our team were recently invited to provide expert advice and join the debate panel at Grand Designs first ever roadshow. You can find us at the upcoming event in London this April & May.