This project shows how you can build a substantial property while minimising your home's impact on the environment
THE PROJECT
With planning permission in place to build a 6 bedroom house over 4 floors, they were looking for a self build project manager to find and appoint a builder and then help them ensure the construction stage went smoothly.
THE CHALLENGE
Our clients had bought a building plot which included a run-down house. Therefore the project first involved demolishing the existing dwelling on the site to make way for the new build house.
Designed to exacting standards by a well renowned local practice, the architectural plans incorporated a basement and accommodation over an additional three floors. Not satisfied with simply meeting building regulations, the home was designed with energy efficiency in mind.
The energy approach towards this build was very much ‘fabric first’. The design and construction materials meant that despite this being a significantly sized family home, the specifications would mean the future running costs would be comparatively low.
High levels of insulation and quality glazing was installed, as well as rainwater harvesting and grey water recycling. The specification also included all of the best of the latest smart home technology. Other features such as low energy LED lighting and mechanical recovery auto room dust recovery were also installed.
THE SOLUTION
If you are building a property with superior energy performance in mind, it’s important to appoint the right build team. Our role was to check our clients plans and determine the best way of achieving a high quality, yet affordable build. This involved deciding how to split the building works out between the main builder and a series of specialist installers, before getting them to quote individually via a series of formal tenders.
When deciding on the shortlist of builders and specialists to tender to, we were careful to ensure we talked to people who were keen to respond to the challenges of creating an energy efficient house. It was also important that they could all work cooperatively with the trades and many specialist installers who would be involved with the build.
Once the build team was appointed and the project was onsite, we were appointed to oversee the works as Contract Administrator. We also gave additional project monitoring support to the clients to ensure that all parties were briefed and coordinated as closely as possible.
THE RESULT
While carrying out a build of this nature is never simple, good organisation and close supervision of the build team meant the construction works went very smoothly, and our clients now have a green, and comfortable family home.
CLPM Services used by our client:-
Design review. Procurement Advice. Tender Management and Analysis, Build Team Appointment. Contract Administration role with main contractor with site inspection and coordination of specialist providers.
Building a home from scratch provides you with the wonderful opportunity to build a sustainable property. Investing in clever design, and setting the energy performance targets as high as you can will deliver a home that’s greener and more future-proof. You’ll benefit from a more comfortable home with lower running costs. Should you wish to sell, your house will be more valuable and attractive to anyone looking to purchase your property too.