Traditionally when the need for a new build is required, be that a renovation, extension or indeed a complete new dwelling, the first move is to consult with a designer. More than often the design process moves down the road and as it develops it serves the purpose of satisfying the requirements of the client & appeasing the statutory
requirements for the local government planning department.
This process can be a double edge sword for the client, there is excitement for the outcome being produced by the designer as it begins to come to life on paper. At the same time there can be frustration with getting the new project through the often-arduous planning approval process. All in all, this process can be exciting as it moves toward being able to build your dream.
This process can be a double edge sword for the client, there is excitement for the outcome being produced by the designer as it begins to come to life on paper. At the same time there can be frustration with getting the new project through the often-arduous planning approval process. All in all, this process can be exciting as it moves toward being able to build your dream.
Planning approval is obtained, or at least notification that approval is immanent and all involved are excited for the
next step. The process from this point can vary depending on the designer & direction chosen. The planning approved drawings can be issued to builders for budget pricing, often designers will choose this option to gauge the market prior to proceeding with construction drawings. Alternatively, the design proceeds on to the “for
construction” drawings & at this stage other required information such as structural engineer design, energy reports, soil reports are compiled to create a documentation set that is ready for building permit & construction.
Regardless as to what extent the documentation, design & approval phase has progressed, an investment has been made & money spent. It is now time to either get budget appraisals or in fact a tender submission from builders. Quality builders these days will often charge to carry out this service be that a budget or a tender. Many hours of work go into producing tenders, in this day and age builders are not giving away expertise for free. A few weeks pass & the information returns from the nominated builders, typically two to three.
A builder is like a portrait painter. It is a creative vocation & despite the design information being produced separate-
ly to the builder, it is the builder who needs to physically produce the intended design. This means that no two build-
ers will see &/or approach the project the same way. For this reason, the submissions from the builders will differ in
not only price but also the list of questions, clarifications & requirements that will accompany the price.
The previous four paragraphs summarise the traditional & typical process in the procurement of a potential project.
We are now at the stage where documentation has been produced to varying levels, planning approval has been
received & builder submissions (with clarifications) have been received but, the submissions are too high! If there
are submissions that tend to fit closer to the budget they will be surrounded by questions & clarifications that need
to be addressed to firm costings. It is at this stage the excitement turns to stress. Finger pointing can start & can
vary from the “builders are too dear” through to the “designer doesn’t understand build cost” & everything in
between.
