
Preparing the House Site
Like a patient on an operating table, buildings are most at risk when the work begins. Protection works should be carried out before your builder starts or be built into the specification as part of the contract:
Secure the Site: Building sites, materials, and tools are vulnerable to vandalism, theft, and even arson. Install temporary fencing, gates, and intruder alarms where necessary.
Protect the Building: Shield windows and doors externally and internally with timber boarding or heavy-gauge plastic sheeting. Cover architectural details such as fireplaces and staircases with boarding to prevent damage and to screen them from the eyes of thieves.
Safeguard Floors: Protect floors with sheets of plywood or hardboard, gaffer-taped at the joints. Schedule work to avoid floors being lifted repeatedly by different trades when services are being installed.
Scaffolding Precautions: Ensure scaffolding does not damage windows with original glass or chip detailing.
Rainwater Management: Never leave your building without rainwater protection—temporary plastic gutters are ideal.
Fire Safety Measures: Place fire extinguishers and sand buckets at strategic points, have a water supply and hose to hand, and install temporary battery-operated smoke alarms. Never allow smoking in or around the building. Stop any 'hot works' such as the use of blowtorches and angle grinders at least one hour before leaving the site, and thoroughly check the area before locking up.
Managing the Build
At the outset:
Walk around the building with your tradesmen; tell them something about its history, point out the features that are important, and ask them to notify you if they discover anything interesting—traces of old wallpaper, letters, or coins in voids.
Maintain a diary and take photographs before any work starts and at every stage along the way. Record bills paid, who is on site each day, materials delivered, and any events that stop work, such as adverse weather.
Keep detailed records of all site meetings to address any disputes effectively.
Building work often takes longer than expected. Good builders work along a logical path to minimize wasted time. Two essential stages are:
First Fix: Installation of elements such as pipework, electrical cables, and socket boxes.
Second Fix: Connection and finishing of installed components.
If possible, move out during major projects. If not, agree on working hours, clear work areas, and adapt to ensure safety and progress. Address any quality concerns immediately.
As the project nears completion:
Create a snagging list and review it with the builder.
Hold back a percentage of the payment (commonly 5%) until all issues are resolved.
Materials
Selecting materials and products can be time-consuming but is crucial for a successful result:
Match and Source: With old buildings, matching items like bricks is essential.
Plan Ahead: Order goods well in advance, check delivery times, and ensure contractors approve materials for purpose.
Budget: Set up accounts with local builders' merchants for discounts. Never pay for materials until they are on site.
Avoid Over-Embellishment: Choose items that complement the building's character and avoid 'miracle' products.
Money Matters
Managing finances is crucial:
Contingency Fund: Allocate at least 20% of your budget for unexpected issues.
Payment Terms: Agree on payment terms before work starts. Avoid advance payments; pay upon completion of stages or monthly invoices with estimated final accounts.
Snagging and Final Account: Submit a written snagging list and withhold final payment until all issues are resolved.
Insurance
Old buildings are more expensive to repair, and listed buildings require specialized insurance:
Check insurance availability before purchasing a property.
Notify your insurer of planned work or if the building will be unoccupied.
Update the insured value as the project progresses.
Document the property, outbuildings, and garden with photographs of specific features for reference in case of fire, theft, or vandalism.
Environmental Considerations
Sustainable Practices: Incorporate eco-friendly materials and methods to reduce the project's environmental impact and achieve long-term savings.
Waste Management: Develop a plan for recycling and disposing of construction debris responsibly.
Energy Efficiency: Consider integrating renewable energy solutions such as solar panels or better insulation for improved energy performance.
By following these practices, your project will not only meet high-quality standards but also ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability throughout the process.
Discover more about sustainable building practices and design strategies on our Building Survey Blog.
For further inquiries or assistance, feel free to contact us.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in these posts is for informational purposes only and should not be considered design advice, specifications, or a calculation template. We assume no responsibility or liability for the use of the information presented. For professional advice or design services, please contact us via our contact form.
Reference:
Roger, H., Marianne, S. (2017). Old House Handbook: A Practical Guide to Care and Repair. Quarto Publishing PLC.
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