detail on building specs

[e.m.e.r]

Hi.
Planning on building in the new year. We are about to send off for quotes. Was wondering how much detail I must include when sending off the plans.
Any information would be helpful and much appreciated.

 

[sydthebeat]

Hi.
Planning on building in the new year. We are about to send off for quotes. Was wondering how much detail I must include when sending off the plans.
Any information would be helpful and much appreciated.

If you do not have construction drawings and a construction specifications then:
1. the builders can price for whatever materials they want. personally i would not want a builder speciying materials that will go into my house.
2. the builders can choose what to include for and what not to include for... making examining the tenders to determine which is best a complete nightmare
3. the construction may or may not comply to building regulations, andonce erect, becomes too late to alter.
4. the builders can spec what size timbers to use... not a good idea either. they will not take the responsibility for the structure.

building houses has become very complex in the last 5 years so treat it with the respect it deserves. fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

 

[baldyman27]

At the very least get a full set of construction drawings from your engineer/architect and if possible get a bill of quantities drawn up by a Quantity Surveyor. Then you can compare like for like when comparing quotes. Put the onus on providing all specifications on your engineer/architect as they will ultimately be signing off on the work and thus taking responsibility for the standard of work.

 

[bamboozle]

i'd get a bill of quantities done, that way when their quotes do come back you can see exactly how much each builder is charging each element of the job, this will ensure you get a true price. Plus the price is locked in so you wont be hit with sneaky extras...