Setting A Self-Build Schedule

Even before you talk to the builders of your new home, make sure you have your own house in order, literally. This means preparing a schedule, often called a 'programme of works'. But where to start? Read on to find out...

What Should A Schedule Include?

Before you begin working on your schedule, first ensure that all the planning and building regulation approvals are in place, as well as all the necessary site insurance. This should detail the major stages of the build between the start and completion dates.

You will also need detailed specifications of all the work that might not be included on the working drawings. This should include:

Positions and type of power points
Lighting locations and type
Details of roof tiles; fascias; interior, second-fix joinery
Heating system details

This may sound simple but small changes later are always disproportionately expensive. For instance, if your electrician has run the wiring for the power and you then change the kitchen lay-out, the socket positions may need to be altered. This is a lot more time consuming if the plasterboard has been fixed to the walls.

What Is A Materials Schedule?

The next job is to prepare a materials schedule detailing what materials you will be using and when they are needed on site. This is the kind of specialist area where a project manager can save you money. They will be familiar with way the trades work and how to arrange deliveries for the most efficient use. You may get a timber frame watertight in the first two weeks, but if you can't book electricians and plumbers for another month, the time advantage is lost.

Can A Project Manager Help?

A project manager's role is to stagger the delivery of building materials and direct the labour to make the build as efficient as possible. Co-ordination is the name of the game. If you have groundworkers on site, they should dig the drainage and service trenches as part of the same job as laying the foundations, rather than calling them back a week later. Don't forget the heavy plant costs, either - a large crane and operator are expensive, so make sure all the roofing materials and other heavier loads are on site in plenty of time. Those with larger plots have an advantage as materials can be stored on site if necessary.