Independent project management for people designing, building or substantially renovating their own home, bringing the programme discipline and cost control of major projects to a private build.
Self-building is one of the largest financial and logistical undertakings most people ever take on. It means coordinating architects, engineers, planners, building control and a long list of trades, usually alongside a full-time job.
As your project manager I sit on your side of the table. My job is to protect your budget, programme and interests throughout: flagging problems early, keeping decisions moving and making sure what is built matches what was designed and paid for.
Managing architects, structural engineers and specialist consultants so the information is complete and on time.
Liaison with the planning authority, Building Regulations and warranty providers.
Preparing tender packages, comparing quotes and appointing the right contractors.
A realistic programme, tracked throughout, with early warning of slippage.
Budget monitoring, valuation checks and control of changes so there are no surprises.
Regular inspections to make sure the work matches the design and the specification.
Practical oversight of site safety and your duties as a client.
Final inspections, snagging, certificates and documentation, so you can move in with confidence.
Every self-build is different. Some clients bring me in at planning stage, others once ground has broken and things have started to slip.
Reviewing the brief, budget and site constraints, and shaping a realistic programme before planning is submitted.
Tendering the build, comparing contractors and agreeing contracts and a clear cost plan.
Managing the works on site: progress, quality, safety, changes and monthly reporting to you.
Final inspections, snagging, warranty documentation and building control sign-off.
Ideally at design stage, when decisions have the biggest effect on cost and programme. But I can also join part-way through a build, including one that has fallen behind or over budget.
No. I coordinate and manage them on your behalf. Your architect designs and your contractor builds. I make sure everyone is delivering what was agreed, on time and on budget.
Yes. A recovery review of the programme, costs and contractor position is often the first step, followed by a clear plan to get things back under control.
Cumbria first, then the wider North West, the North East and the Scottish Borders. If you are unsure whether your site is in range, just ask.
Whatever stage you are at, from a plot with planning in progress to a build that is already underway, send over the details and I will come back with how I can help.
