Search the Community

Hi all - I am about to embark on a build of a new house, to replace my existing, but hit a bump - another bump In a nutshell - I had architect to design, get quotes and (planned to use her for) quote evaluation, contractor selection & sign-up (one main contractor to do full shell and landscape), build control application, and to consult thereafter to support me and builder as we progress. Unfortunately, the architect was taken ill (very ill), so I evaluated the quotes and selected the builder - he comes recommended, and is affable. So getting to my questions (i) Id like to sign a contract, and although he is agreeable, he'd "doesn't think they are worth the paper" - is it the absolute only thing to do? (ii) what sort of contract do we sign - are there templates. Builder was given building control level drawings for quote, his response is marked estimate, and there are some things that may be subject to change/decision (e.g. the lanscaping levels). In a nutshell, I'd like to regularise the relationship as much as possible, without rewriting everything - Im thinking of making sure the less obvious stuff is clear, like what happens if the site is vandalised, payment terms, warranties, etc. Any pointers or contract suggestions, please. Relevant, I guess - I feel my architect is imprtont to my design, and Im really hoping to get her back, so not eager to appoint another - Id rather patch on through, if I can TIA, James PS, I am excited to finally be nearing build stage, in case the above came across as dry & glum!

I'd be really grateful for any experience or advice on which contract to use. We're currently out to tender for a new build house, and are intending that the contractor will manage the site and all trades, but that I will be the contract administrator (CA) (mortgage company seem fine with this). Our architect has recommended the RIBA Domestic 2018 contract as it specifically allows for the client to also be the CA; however when we have approached a solicitor to quote for reviewing the contract before signing, we have been advised a JCT Minor Works will be better, and that the RIBA contract isn't advised for projects greater than £250k in value (ours will probably be more like £500k). Does anyone have any thoughts? As you can tell from my handle, I haven't done this before!

Hello everybody. I wonder if anyone can offer advice on the following situation:- Builder 1 signed the contract a couple of months ago then kept delaying the start on site date. He has now pulled out altogether before even starting on site. We will have to go out to tender again to find Builder 2. If Builder 2 is £10k more expensive than Builder 1, can we claim the difference off Builder 1? If Builder 2 cannot meet the completion date set for Builder 1, can we claim the weekly rate of liquidated damages off Builder 1?

We have started an extreme renovation on or property. After much of the house was removed we had a wobble, stopped the builder and applied for planning to demolish entirely and new build. 8 weeks later due to budgetary constraints we have decided to stick with the renovation. We did not have a contract with the builder so have been advised by the architect to use a JCT contract and ask him to requote so we can understand our final costs better. The builder will build to plate then a timber frame company will fit the first floor with the builder returning to tile the roof. All other trades will be organised by ourselves. The question is should we use a contract? They look incredibly complicated and may be happier paying to have it set up but then the builder may be miffed as he is only doing part of the build. We have no reason to distrust the builder but we are novices and want to ensure it is built correctly to drawing and will take the timber frame. If there is no contract do we have any redress if it is wrong? To make it more complicated my partner who was over-seeing the build has been taken ill so we are considering a project manager to do site visits and take some of the strain. Does anyone have views if this is a good idea or if it will erode our builder relationship.

Morning all, I finally received a draft contract the other day for the purchase of a self build plot. There are a few covenants within that I would like to share in order to get some second opinions from my fellow self builders. I am due to meet with my solicitor next week so haven't received formal legal advice yet - I have reached my own opinions but would like a sanity check so here goes: 1. "The transferee will not raise any objections to any planning application made by or on behalf of the transferors or the transferor’s successors in title in respect of the retained land" 2. "The transferee and his successors in title shall not be entitled to any right of access of light and air or any other easement or right which would restrict or interfere with the free use of the retained land for building development or any other purpose" 3. "Approval of plans: the transferee must not build or erect upon the property any buildings or structures or erections other than one private dwelling house and boundary walls and fences the locations, exterior, design, appearance, finish, decoration of which are strictly in accordance with the drawing and specifications approved by the transferor in writing (which approval in relation to finish and decoration will not be unreasonably withheld or delayed)" 4. "Alterations: The transferee must not: (a) build other than in accordance with the drawings and specifications approved by the transferor. (b) After completion of the buildings, make any alterations or additions to the exterior of those buildings or any other buildings subsequently erected on the property or to the walls, hedges and fences on the property. (c) erect any additional buildings, walls, hedges and fences on the property; EXCEPT in all cases with the written approval of the transferor and whose fees d those of its professional advisors in connection with the consideration of any such application, whether granted, refused or withdrawn shall be paid by the transferee" Any/all advice/opinions are appreciated. Thanks

Hi all, I am new to the forum and am desperately seeking advice.... we have building regs approval for a part single / part two-storey side extension on a 60s built semi. I have been putting the tender documents together myself. I will be issuing the approved plans, engineers notes, build spec and covering letter. The build spec is 8 pages long. I managed to find a good example to work from and added all our requirements, not obvious from the drawings. Should I put together a contract? I was thinking just a couple of pages which states that the contractor should follow the build spec, price and payment schedule, agreed dates for commencement and completion, defects liability period, required contractor's insurance cover, percentage to be held back for snagging. Reading up online I'm wondering if this is sufficient? Some suggest using something like the JCT Minor Works agreement. I don't want to go over the top and scare off good builders but I don't want to be naive either. Would really appreciate some advice. thank you

I'm about to start my new build and I need to appoint a contractor to do the groundworks and foundation, then a contractor to erected the house. So what sort of contract do I need and what sort of stuff should be in it?