Self-managed two-part extension...hopefully

spideyboy

We are in the process of getting planning permission etc for a simple 2 storey extension to the side of our 60's/70's semi-detached.
All we need is a garage/storage space on the base and then a large, long bedroom above that on the first floor.

So far we have got a few quotes for the whole job and have been amazed at the figures (£20k - £25k for a main contractor to complete the work, of which I can almost guarantee he will 'sub-out' the majority).

We have decided to try and halve the bills, and self manage the job. I'm not a total tool (honestly), and have led a previous life as a decorator.

At present we have the plans drawn up and are sourcing relevant trades to estimate for the work.

There is also minimal pipework/plumbing as there are only 2 rads going in and the boiler is on the first floor landing...

Likewise with the electrics, there will be minimal work as the main consumer unit is right next to the new build section and the garage lights will be borrowed from the existing driveway lights. And, the NDneighbour is electrician so will speak nice and buy him :beer:...!




My mental stumbling block seems to be the groundworks/drainage, for the side extension...!

• How do we get the drainage issues tied in with the foundations...? (the driveway at moment is at the side of the house and this is where the new build part will be...it seems to be sloping front to back and therefore will surely gather water unless we channel it away...!)
• Will the detailed architect drawings enable a groundworker to see exactly what he needs to dig to...?
• Who exactly orders the concrete for the foundations...? (Groundworker or me - I'm assuming GW would have more of a clue what they need...!)

Ideally, I suppose, we would like a brickie to come in, with a groundworker/labourer, look at the plans and work out exactly what needs doing, price for it, then do it...?

I have the roofing, electrics/plumbing sorted out and obviously will not need anyone else to decorate it....:T
We have also got plans for the conservatory to come down at the rear to be replaced by a 'garden room' which will tie-in to the new 'pitched roof' over the now flat roof.

This has also been 'estimated' at £15 - £20k....which seems bizarre as it only means the removal of the old conservatory, which we will do, and construction of base footings, before an apex roof ties in to the new kitchen roof.

The project (as we like to call it that :mad:) is in Aberdare, South Wales and we would appreciate all the advice and help that anyone can suggest. Even if this means reliable sub-contractors that we can get in for the job to be done as efficiently and cheaply as possible...!

I am hoping to work out how to post photos of the building but please bear with me...Have also posted previously about MFW and totally appreciated all the positive comments about that. Couldn't quite work out the replies though.....!