Self Build Project Management

Do It Yourself
Other Ways Of Managing A Project

Most self builders and renovators don't get involved in the construction side but do project manage, while about 20% decide to hand the entire project over to a project manager. Which should you do?

By Mark Ramuz

Time is Money

One of the most demanding aspects of any self build is the project management. This isn't a role that just anyone can take on. It demands the ability to juggle the ordering of materials, worker priorities and everything else that gets the house built, including the money.

Should I Tackle it Myself?

Before you decide to tackle the project management role, think about how your time is best used. If you're earning the money to pay for the project, taking time off or trying to do two jobs at once may well be a false economy. Project management means being on site most days and always available if something crops up.

Project managing also needs a methodical mind that can solve the big problems first and then work on the smaller details. Fortunately, there are several software packages that can help you work logically. Estimator Xpress from www.hbxl.co.uk combines accurate cost estimators and project management tools. It's expensive at £800 but does link to Jewsons, the builder's merchant, so that all material cost estimates are updated every time you log on.

Cash flow is also critical - if money isn't released at the correct time, materials can't be delivered on time and, in the worst case, your builders will be left with nothing to do.

Unless you're going with a complete package from one supplier, a vital part of the project manager's role is getting the materials at the best price. You have to be persistent enough to get three quotes for almost everything. These should include delivery costs and the expiry date of the quote as some material prices do fluctuate.

Get It Right

Plan your time as much as the job. Set aside a time at the start and end of each week to update your progress notes or software and sort out any problems rather than letting them drag into the following week. Try to sort out any problems without offending your tradesmen or suppliers.
Break the build into stages such as groundworks, blockwork/frame complete and second fix work to make the project more manageable. Each of these bigger milestones can be broken up into smaller elements that keep the project moving along.
For the novice, using one supplier for the bulk of the materials is convenient and easier to control. For example, Travis Perkins self build website (www.buildthedream.co.uk) includes estimating and VAT help, and is also a good way of controlling your account online.
Keep the site as tidy as possible. Chaotic conditions are not only dangerous but create the wrong atmosphere for subcontractors coming onto the site. It can also slow up deliveries if you can't find a clear space to unload pallets and other bulk items.
Put everything in writing, including promised supply dates, prices, exact material specification and especially any verbal agreements you make with contractors.