Self Builder in Wiltshire wanted the Adventure of a Self Build
THE PROJECT
Our client had a vision of owning a 5 bedroom home surrounded by land. He was fortunate enough to find a property close to his family home which was perfect to renovate and it was surrounded by fields.
With older children who were preparing to fly the nest, their dream was to build a home suited to their life-style. They liked the idea and adventure of designing and building their own home, not for it to be a forever home, but one they could be proud of and enjoy.
Our client was diligent about his research, and attended the Project Management course at the NSBRC, which is run by CLPM’s Charlie Laing. Not being an expert in building homes, our client knew he didn’t have the knowledge and expertise to manage such a project himself.
Getting along with Charlie on the course, and understanding the value CLPM’s expertise could bring, gave him confidence to appoint an independent project manager.
Our clients had a number of frustrating meetings with an architect who didn’t understand their vision. This led to the plans halting for a time. Then they met Potton, a timber frame specialist, at the Self Build Centre, Their designers listened to their wishes and created their designs. The clients were impressed with their service and appointed them to provide the timber frame and they worked with them throughout the project.
The wish list was:
- 5 bedrooms
- Balcony off the main bedroom
- Grand entrance hall
- High ceilings throughout
- Energy efficient using renewable technologies
Now, the build team was coming together.
THE CHALLENGE
The main challenge was the fact that our clients work full time, and have busy lives.
Knowing he wanted to self build. our client needed to understand what was involved, and what he needed to know. He knew he didn’t know how to build a house, but wanted to retain overall control. Through his research he knew he would need help, and having met Charlie, knew a project manager was going to be necessary.
The client wanted to use renewable energy, and planned to be as energy efficient as possible. Working within the industry, he knew what he wanted to achieve.
The other challenge was that they continued to live in the property as it was being renovated. A converted garage helped provide accommodation for a short time, but it is something to test your resolve.
THE SOLUTION
Realising that managing a self build is all consuming, the key to success was going to be organisation. Decisions needed to be made daily. This is where the Project Manager took the lead and stress.
Mario our Gloucester based Project Manager was appointed to oversee the job. As Contract Administrator he was integral to making sure all parties carry out the work to the terms written in the contract.
During the planning stage, CLPM’s energy consultant Rob was appointed to oversee the energy plans. The clients wish for a renewable energy source was designed in conjunction with their chosen installation company. Rob helped to ensure the plans were the most suitable ones for the property.
Our client was extremely happy that between himself, Rob and the installation company, they sketched out what the client wanted and Rob oversaw the installation.
CLPM’s Quantity Surveying team helped the clients monitor their budget via monthly cost reporting. This provided the reassurance our client was looking for to ensure the build cost they had planned per square meter was kept to.
THE RESULT
Our client was delighted with the completed renovations. We think the property looks incredible.
The designs began in 2019, and the works were mostly throughout 2020 and 2021. Covid did affect the project with businesses closing and the availability of materials, but fortunately for the most part the contractors were able to continue with the build. The location enabled the build team to keep socially distanced.
Overall, there was about a 4 month delay to completion, but given the circumstances the clients were happy with the timings.
The project did go over budget. This was predominantly due to price increases because of the Covid impact, and project changes along the way. The Swimming Pond was a late addition which added to the costs, but finished off the landscaping beautifully.
Our client has since been enjoying his home.
He was delighted with CLPM and had this to say ‘I thought both Rob and Mario were very organised and knowledgeable and did a great job in coordinating the project’.
Rob had organised a topping out ceremony during the build which was a great way to bring everyone together to celebrate the achievement. The client thought this was one of the highlights of the build.
Our client took advice early in the design stage from The Vat Man. He advised on what was required to be successful in a VAT claim. Through careful spreadsheet planning and keeping receipts and documentation, he was able to claim back £78,000 of the £94,000 he aimed for.
He knows that he could not have managed the project without a project manager as he would have got into a pickle!
Photography by Patricia Rayner at Image 2 Photography
CLPM Services used by our client:-
Design Review
Budget and Tender
Preparation of Contracts
Programme
Onsite Support and Cost Reporting