Construction Project Planning Steps
Planning and design should be the first steps you take in any project, residential or commercial. Finding out whether you require planning permissions is a major step to a successful building development of any kind. Some projects require planning permissions, and some will not, such as simple types of Loft conversions and home extensions do not require planning as long as you keep within the guidelines. Refurbishment projects also require no planning permission from the local council because the job is all indoors rather than external. Some dormer loft conversions may require paperwork from local authorities so always look out for that and a new build construction of any type surely requires some signed documents to proceed smoothly. Out houses and garages are always a tricky one too and, again, if kept within measurements you can easily build one without having to apply.
The building constructor’s contractors team is always here to help when finding the right builder or planning ahead. You can also gain a quick quote from our experts and book a no obligation site visit to get some advice on the whole project.
Whether it is adding a new loft or giving the house a major facelift, construction projects are always expected to be messy, demanding, and stressful. In order to save you a lot of time and money, it is best to make all the necessary preparations before taking on any project. This will involve learning what to consider when starting a project which includes the following:
- Licenses and Permits
First and foremost, you have to understand that you can’t just tackle any construction project without notifying the government first. The government of UK will take interest in your construction project if it is:
- A structure where people are expected to make use of regularly.
- It will rely on a connection to local utilities like the sewer system and the power grid.
- Its construction and continued existence in an area will considerably affect those that live or work in the area.
As such, the local government might want to inspect your plans first to see if it follows the most recent building code. This is for the sake of your safety as well as other people who might use that structure.
Normally, any kind of building will require a construction permit. However, there are some interior projects that will require government approval. These include:
- Replacements of electrical systems.
- Plumbing repairs and improvements.
- HVAC installations.
- Addition of new rooms and levels in a building.
- Replacement of coverings on pitched and flat roofs.
- Replacement of doors and windows.
If you are having problems identifying the kind of permits and licenses required for your project, you always have the option to consult with the local government. They are more than willing to assist you in meeting the requirements and can even offer advice to make your project better.
How To Start Building A House
- Project Timeline
How long will it take to complete your project? Are you going to devote most of your time of the day to complete this project as soon as possible? A timetable is necessary for a project especially those that require multiple phases of construction.
DIY projects like decks and lofts might be completed within a few weeks. However, more complex structures like garages and new buildings can take months to a year to be finished.
Also, you should factor in delays in the projects due to lack of funds, materials, or manpower. If your project takes longer than necessary to be completed, you can expect for the expenses to be higher in the long run.
- Costs
Naturally, your biggest concern will be the expenses you incur for the project. When planning out the budget for your project, you should look at 3 different areas.
- Materials – Naturally, your project is going to be expensive if it covers a bigger area and requires a large quantity of materials. For instance, a car port that measures 15 X 25 feet is going to be relatively cheaper than one that covers 30 X 50 feet. This is because it demands fewer construction materials.
Of course, you should also account for mistakes during the construction process. This will necessitate the purchase of extra building materials which adds a considerable amount to your expenses.
- Manpower – You would also have to determine if your project is something that you can tackle on your own or will require the assistance of more capable folk.
For example, a simple deck might be a project that any skilled homeowner can take on their lonesome. However, something a bit more complicated like a garage or a new floor will require the help of electricians, masons, plumbers, and carpenters.
Always keep in mind that expenses are directly proportionate to the number of people needed to finish the project. In other words, the more help you need, the more expensive your project will be.
- Logistics – One important factor in determining what to consider when starting a project is the flow of materials coming in and out of your project site. As always, the amount you will spend for your project’s logistics will be proportional to the scope of the project.
You can save a lot in this regard if your construction project is simpler. After all, you are going to buy the materials yourself and have the ability to dispose of the waste once the project is complete.
However, more complicated construction projects will demand assistance from delivery specialists. You will have to contact a materials delivery business to supply you with the materials regularly and a skip hire service to get the waste off the premises.
- Project Oversight
People handling construction projects tend to rely on the help of contractors for two reasons. First, contractors understand what is needed to complete the project faster and have experience dealing with emergencies and delays. Second, they can offer advice on how to make the project better using cost-effective practices and materials without sacrificing quality.
However, a contractor is not always necessary in all types of projects. In simple construction projects, your oversight is only needed. For more complex and expensive ones, a contractor will be definitely needed.
Also, you have to find a contractor that is reputable. Being trustworthy and competent for the tasks are two qualities in a contractor that will help you finish the project in the soonest possible time.
- Changes, Errors, and Mistakes
The one thing that is inevitable in a construction project is the potential for the occurrence of errors. For instance, the designers might make errors in the drawings and specifications. The contractor you hired might miss an important item when coming up with the initial price list.
Or how about when you, the owner, yourself would change things in the project’s details or add new work. In determining what to consider when starting a project, always anticipate for unexpected changes to the plan and that such changes will add a considerable amount to your expenses.
At the very least, set your initial budget 5% higher than what was proposed. Also, include designing contingency costs to cover any mistake that your designer might make. The value is dependent on the project type but a range of 1-2% of the overall construction budget should be sufficient.
Considering a construction project? Contact us so we can walk you through your options. Our team of expert builders in London can help transform your plan into reality.
