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This is one of the single most important parts of any project. After all, nobody wants to spend more than they have to. So before you start out, it’s worth looking at all aspects of your project and how much they will cost. Then you’ll know what you can achieve with the money you have available. Touchwood Building Contractors Ltd would be more than happy to help you with any cost planning, giving input on all practical and financial issues.
Find a Builder
Touchwood Building Contractors will take on your project and look after all aspects of the work from start to finish. We will use our expertise and experience to provide you with a high quality finish that should expect from any builder. We have a good reputation, that we have achieved from developing good working relationships with all our current and past clients, who would be more than happy to provide you with references upon request. We would always recommend that you get a few quotations so that you can compare the prices and quality of work before you make a choice, and remember best value isn’t always measured on cost.
Architect's Plan
If you’re planning a major development of your property then its worth hiring an Architect. Having trained for 7 years, they have the skills to help you bring your ideas to life and will add value to your project. You can find a qualified RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) at www.architecture.com, or we can recommend one of the Architects we have worked with on past projects. However if your project isn’t too complicated then we may be able to save you money in this area.
Planning Permission
This can be a complicated issue depending on where you live and the type of house you live in. That’s why its worth checking with your local planning department before you start any work. Many home improvements don’t require any planning permission, but it can be a costly mistake if you don’t check first. You will find details online at www.planningportal.gov.uk and inside the Planning Guide we have included within this introduction pack.
Building Regulations
The Building regulations are designed to ensure any work we carry out is safe and legal. Again, your local authority building control department will be able to assist with this. To find your local authority building control department, contact your local council.
Agree a Time Frame
As with any project it will have a beginning and an end. Agreeing an end date with your builder is important as it helps to manage your expectations and more importantly your budget. As part of the service from Touchwood Building Contractors Ltd we will issue you with a full programme of works, which will form part of the contract between you the client and us the builder. An example programme and a sample of the contract we use is included within this information pack.
Structural Survey
If your project includes any major structural work such as knocking down a wall or building an extension then its worth getting a structural survey completed. Not all cases require a survey, so speak to us first and we will be able to advise you on this.