Also called the building works stage, once you’re ready to build this is when either you go out to tender with your architect-led tenders where quotes are managed by your architect or; engage builders directly and seek your own contractors. You could go either way – it depends on your budget, timeline and how safe you feel with detailed management.
What is an architect-led tender?
This is the process where your architect assembles a comprehensive tender pack (drawings, specification and other key information), sends it to appropriate contractors, responds to queries and assists you in comparing like-for-like quotes. For a Monmouth Architect, visit www.hillsandcompany.co.uk
Pros
Accurate pricing – Builders are quoting from the same information.
Less surprises – A better spec means fewer omitted items, and vague allowances.
Comparing apples to apples – You can see what is included (and not), at a glance.
Time-saving: less chasing, fewer misunderstandings.
Cons
Professional costs: you pay the architect fees
Tendering can be time-consuming, it’s a process not one quick phone call
So what does this process of you getting quotes yourself look like?
You go to builders, show them what you have (sometimes just some plans), and get cost proposals.
Pros
Seems faster: you can jump into conversations right away.
Reduced initial cost: No tender management fees.
More direct face time: some clients like in-person negotiations.
Cons
Difficult to compare: the quotes could have different assumptions.
More admin: you will be putting in the hours replying to queries and running after drafts.
A practical middle ground
For the budget-conscious, we suggest going to your architect and asking for a light touch tender: this means an even tighter specification with only 3 suggestions of which builders it goes out to (instead you decide) not full management.