Build

Build

Approach

At EKOARCHITECTURE, the process is divided in two-stages, Design and Build. This allows you to maintain full flexibility when it comes to assigning a contractor for your Build. If you choose to use our Service, you’ll benefit from our full turn-key service. Your assigned Architectural Designer & Project Manager will ensure that the transition between Design & Build is completely seamless, and they’ll keep in close communication throughout the Build.

In case you already have a design prepared we would be happy to make a free site visit to understand more about your requirements and budget. We will provide you with a detailed quote, listing each area of work separately this allows you to see exactly what is being included, and gives you the ability to make any amendments to it before we proceed any further

The process

FORMAL CONTRACT

Once you are happy to proceed we can draw up a contract (based on the finalized quote). The contract will re-iterate exactly what work is being done and will specify the payment terms (usually an initial payment is due at the signing of the contract)

 

Pre-start Meeting

We start the build process by arranging a meeting with you at the property with your Contract Manager and Construction Manager. This enables us to confirm all of the details and answer any remaining questions.

 

Mobilisation Activities

We will have to complete a checklist of activities before the build starts.This might include assigning an Approved Inspector and suspending a parking bay for your skip.

 

Construction Phase

An extension usually takes between 12 to 16 weeks. During this time, your Contract Manager will give you regular updates about the works and you can be as involved as you would like to be.

 

Milestone checks

Your Contract Manager will inspect the build at regular intervals to check compliance with the specification, address any queries from the contractor and inspect the quality of the works.

 

Snagging

We will arrange for you to give your Construction Manager a list of snagging items that need to be carried out to complete the build and after those are completed the site will be cleared of waste and tools.

 

Completion Pack

The project is handed over together with a folder containing our 10 year structural guarantee for the works that we’ve carried out and other important documentation regarding your project.

Typical Costs

There are various factors involved in understanding the cost of a project. These include the scale of the refurbishment, impact on the existing rooms / services, right through to the paint specification. Costs cannot be easily determined as the overall sum will be heavily dictated by the structural alterations and your personal specification requirements.

For a basic breakdown of what you should expect to spend, follow these guidelines: Note that this excludes the kitchen, glazing and floor finishes.

Cost / Budget:

 

Ground floor extension only, including the internal refurbishment of existing areas directly connected to the proposed extension: £75,000 – £88,000 + VAT

You will have to carefully consider the specification of the internal / external finishes to complete the project within this range. The sum does not include for bespoke items, such as a kitchen, appliances, worktop, glazing, floor finishes and external landscaping. It does however include for standard electrics, plumbing, decoration and other works required to complete the project.

Loft conversion only: £45,000 – £54,000 + VAT.

Note that you will have to carefully consider the specification of the internal / external finishes to complete the project within this range. The sum does not include for bespoke items, such as wardrobes and also the floor finishes. It does however include for standard electrics, plumbing, decoration and all other works ready for use. You may have to consider the upgrading /strengthening of the existing roof, repairing / replacing the finishes, replacing all of the habitable room doors to FD30 and re-pointing of the existing chimney. This should be assessed by your design team and further guidance provided.

Other costs that you will need to consider relate to the internal redesign / reconfiguration. For example the bathroom and rooms that will need to be refurbished as a result of the works. Your plumbing and electrics will also have be assessed carefully to ensure that they are adequate for the development / additional loading. This should be discussed with the contractors when they are invited to tender for the works. Also note that if you decide to complete the extensions in stages, you should look to futureproof the property to minimise abortive works.

How Long Will It Take?

2-3 weeks – Prep

Design process and preparation of the relevant application to the local authority will take approximately 2-3 weeks.

8 weeks Planning

Planning / lawful development certificate applications are usually determined within 8 weeks from receipt of validation. If a resubmission is required due to a negative outcome, then you will have to allow for another 8 weeks.

6-10 weeks Design

Detailed design, structural engineering, party wall matters and tendering should take 6-10 weeks,

subject to a well managed and smooth process. You also have an opportunity to progress with the detailed design, whilst the planning application is being determined. This will involve an element of

‘risk’. You should discuss this with your selected design team.

12-16  weeks  Construction (Ground Floor Extension)

Construction timeframe for a project of this scale would be 12-16 weeks, subject to the contractor receiving uninterrupted access and specialist items being delivered on time.