With build costs having risen significantly over the last few years, we wanted to engage the expertise of experienced quantity surveyor and build cost expert Tim Phillips to highlight ways that costs can be reduced on a self-build or renovation project.
This masterclass is split over three episodes for ease of listening and all three episodes can be found below. Tim explains the role of a quantity surveyor and how they can help shape the budget for your project.
Along with building expert Michael Holmes, Tim goes on to explain how a detailed cost breakdown can help when finding quotes and keeping your budget on track throughout the build.
His tips will be invaluable to anyone currently looking to price up a project or those seeking ways to reduce their project estimates.
Episode 1
In episode one Michael Holmes and Tim Phillips discuss the role of a quantity surveyor in a project and how they can help you work out your budget and how to account for every cost.
Tim also goes on to highlight areas where quantity surveyors can help to bring down the cost of your project.
Episode 2
In this second instalment, Tim explains the tender process and what information you should put together in order to get back accurate quotes that you can trust.
Once you've received your quotes, how do you compare them and ensure that you choose the best option, particularly when you receive a broad range of prices?
Episode 3
In the final instalment of this three-part masterclass, Tim covers value engineering, and how this process can help bring down the cost of your quotes if they are unaffordable.
He also shares his top tips on how to stay on budget throughout your project and what to do if you feel that costs are starting to spiral.
Meet the experts
Tim Phillips, an experienced quantity surveyor and estimator, is Homebuilding’s build cost expert, and has worked in the construction industry for over 35 years.
He also has a personal insight into the cost challenges of residential self-builds, renovations and extensions, being a serial renovator and managing his own property portfolio.
Michael, one of the UK’s leading property experts, is Homebuilding & Renovating's Director of Content, Vice Chair of the National Custom and Self Build Association, presenter of multiple property TV shows and author of Renovating for Profit.
He also runs an architectural design practice, and has undertaken over 50 building projects.
Watch previous masterclasses
- Permitted Development Rights Explained with Simon Rix, planning expert
- Project Managing Your Build with Mark Stevenson, self-build and plot finding expert
- Everything You Need To Know About Heat Pumps with David Hilton, renewables and sustainability expert
- Coming soon: Getting The Most From Your Architect with Allan Corfield, RIBA chartered architect
- Coming soon: Landscape Design Tips for Self-Builders and Renovators with garden designers Lucy Willcox and Will Cooke
For more exclusive content, browse our Premium area. Keep an eye on our newsletters too for more upcoming masterclasses. If you have any questions about our Premium service drop us a line at homebuildingpremium@futurenet.com.
