building an extension - fixed price or hourly rate

travellerboy

Always Fixed price with a structured payment plan on a signed contract. Do not vary the plan without a firm agreed variation cost.

bobthedambuilder

linda_brew wrote: »

thanks thats helpful. so it would be more specification on some standards but also planning for the second fix. I was concerned it was technical specs on wood standards and tiles like water absorption.

Your BReg drawings / spec should state things like standards for construction materials, but for instance that will specify that bricks must comply with BS EN 771-1. But that standard doesn't tell you what they look like, and the finish or colour you want may cost more than than a basic compliant one. So you have to be as specific as possible.

I suppose that it is possible to let the work in stages if that's what you're suggesting - basic construction first (founds, walls, roof), then separate contract(s) for the "second fix" stuff as you call it. But I'll tell you now - that will take a lot of managing! You would be much better off having your planning and material selections finalised as far as possible before you start.

AdmiralX

bobthedambuilder wrote: »

... specify either a minimum quality, or a specific manufacturer "or similar approved"...

You might also want to either specify or ask about time periods for the construction.

Quite so. For instance plastering takes a lot of time to dry depending where it is. I discovered that one cannot get always the workman for a specific material locally, some work far. I have considered for instance lime plastering in 2 layers for large lounge ceiling which would resolve me problems - but cannot get the people here easily. The thing has to be transported from far away and cost more than the sack itself.

transport costs of materials is another thing. It raises the cost of the bulky and cheaper materials if they come from far.