Beginner's Guide - Running a Site

For Self-build Project Managers
Here’s some simple tips for successful would-be builders

• Find and contact local tradesmen during the planning process and get them organised, ready to start when you need them.
• Run a site office with copies of plans, standard site equipment, a phone and shelter.
• You’ll need to be able to take calls and visit the site at all times of the day, either to handle deliveries or to deal with any problems.
• You’ll do well to invest in a small pick-up or a suitable alternative that can handle carrying bags of cement and smaller non-deliverable items.
• You’ll need to negotiate with tradesmen and materials suppliers, be comfortable firing people, and know what you’re talking about.
• It’s a continual struggle to find good labour and maintain a contacts book.
• Account for the VAT reclaim in your upfront cash-flow plans. In other words, you will get much of the VAT you spend back in the months after the build has finished, but you’ll still need to find the cash to pay for it upfront.

For DIY Builders
Start your DIY project on the right track with this advice

• Draw up a project schedule which will help you organise when labour and materials are required.
• Find time to plan. Don’t just get caught up in the detail of each day’s progress — you’ll need to be constantly thinking ahead.
• Make decisions early and stick to them — the hubbub of a busy building site is no time to be making snap decisions about kitchens, flooring and design issues. Use the slow months before work commences to research materials and ideas.
• Establish a relationship with a local merchant — it enables you to pick up materials on credit, which is useful financially and also makes the paperwork much simpler to organise.

For Those Using Package Suppliers
Consider the following, even if you intend to be hands-off

• Work out the design process for your shortlist of package suppliers — some offer a completely bespoke service, while others offer plans off the shelf.
• Be wary about paying package companies large amounts upfront for timber kits — insist it goes into a separate trust account which protects the money in case of disaster.
• Ask to see previous homes built by the company in question and get an independent recommendation.
• You might be able to opt out of signing up for the ‘whole’ package to save money.

For Those Using Main Contractors
Using a builder doesn’t mean you can devolve all responsibility

Be a good client
When we talk about working with builders, we tend to think of avoiding cowboys. But there is another aspect which is often overlooked, and that is being an effective client. Your relationship with your builder will break down if you are repeatedly confrontational, unwilling to compromise and, worst of all, a late payer. You don’t need to become his friend, but do try and understand where he’s coming from.

Consider a contract
Most projects are carried out without formal contracts in place: they tend to get used when a professional is involved in overseeing the project. But it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of the issues involved with contracts — and maybe to consider entering into a simple contract with a builder. It doesn’t have to be expensive. There is a reasonably good one available to download for free at homepro.co.uk, and the JCT Homeowners Contracts are available for less than £15.

Run the money
Money problems are a significant issue on many building jobs and a frequent underlying cause of disputes. If money is tight, it is far better to discuss the matter openly with your builder than to pretend that everything will be alright. On the other hand, be wary if your builder starts asking for large cash advances.

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Further reading:

• The 12 Steps of Self Build is a complete guide to all aspects of self-build

• Read more about project management in the self-build project management section

• Get tips and advice from other self-builders and renovators in the Homebuilding Discussion Forum

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