Wealden Times | WT228 | May 2021 | Restoration & New Build supplement inside

6SCL’s
steps
to take before starting
a new project
SCL Groundworks share advice for getting a clear idea
of what it will take to get you your dream new-build
or extension, before you start out sclgroundworks.co.uk
To prepare land for a new-build or extension, the
preferred starting point is often to get in touch with
an architect to create the design of the project.
Once the architect has created an initial scope of
specification for what you wish to achieve, you will
be able to go to a structural engineer to organise the
groundworks. Finding the right engineer is just as
important a step as finding a good architect, as the groundworks
will create the base that the building will rely upon. This can
take up to 4 weeks depending on the complexity of the project.
Your engineer may ask for tests such as boreholes, or
soakage tests to be undertaken. It is also advisable to take
soil samples to analyse their waste classification, as this can
have a large impact on the cost of the project. These can
take two or three weeks for results from tests being carried out.
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Obtaining quotes for services and utilities. This is
also important for new-builds as the quotes provide
contractors clear information at the beginning of the
project and help prevent any unknown costs early in
the build. This would usually take four weeks from contractors
receiving information and drawings, to allow for a visit to the
site and a competitive price to be drawn up. When obtaining
quotations from contractors it is important for them to visit
the site to understand access, ground levels and other external
factors. To get an accurate quote you should also give them:
• full but concise information on how long
you wish for the build to take
• clear detailed drawings of the plans
• payment term information
• clarification on whether you expect to hold a retention
(a percentage of the project’s valuation which is held
for a rectification period of the works). This is usually
12 months at 5%, with 2.5% paid on completion and
2.5% paid once the rectification period is complete
Speak with local estate agents about the value the project
could add and compare this against build costs to assess
potential returns and whether the scheme is viable.
Weigh up all of your costs against what you could
gain from the project and make a decision!
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May 2021 Kitchen and bathroom ad.indd 1 20/04/2021 16:38