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A Guide to the Design Process for Smaller Works ¨ What do you want? It is always a good idea to write down or sketch your requirements, and to produce a schedule of accommodation before design work begins. ¨ The
design A good plan is essential, and adequate time should be given to determine the best and most practical layout. The external appearance is also very important, when altering a property a sensitive approach is advisable to maintain a consistent appearance. I prepare proposal drawings showing the plans and elevations, which are then adjusted to suit your requirements during the design process. ¨ Planning
permission Some small residential extensions and alterations do not require planning consent, but the rules vary for certain building and districts, for instance if your property in with a conservation area or it is listed. I will advise you on the situation concerning your property and also on the planning policies which affect the design ¨ Working
drawings & building regulations approval Once the design has been finalized, I add the information needed to show the builder how to construct the work and I also prepare detailed working drawings where required. These drawings are also used to obtain building regulations approval. ¨ Consultants advice I will recommend that you employ a suitably qualified consultant to provide structural calculations, cost advice and electrical/ heating/ plumbing designs depending on the complexity of your project. ¨ Finding
a good builder I have built up a list of small builders over a number of years and would be pleased to suggest any from whom you may obtain quotes. For larger projects it is important to vet suitable contractors and to check that they are able to resource the project adequately. For all projects I advise that a specification is prepared which details your requirements, to make as sure as possible that there are no misunderstandings or omissions. I always advise that you check the financial status of the contractor before a contract is signed. Once the builder is selected I will prepare a small works contract or, for larger projects, alternative forms of contract suitable for the particular scheme. These state the details of the project, how much and when you will have to pay, the start and completion dated and what happens if problems occur during the course of construction. ¨ Work
on site If you have decided to use the form of contract and specification I will be acting as the Contract Administrator for the construction phase. In this capacity I will monitor the construction as work proceeds. The contractor may encounter unexpected problems and you may require further advice as a result. I provide an additional site visit service for these eventualities. As part of these duties, I agree the value of the work that has been carried out and confirm the amount that you must pay to the contractor on an Architect’s Certificate. ¨ Completion
& defects liability period On completion I carry out an inspection and list minor snagging items which require attention by the builder, and after the defects liability period has lapsed I make a final inspection and arrange for all defects to be rectified. |
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