House extension...what to do next

sam1970

We had a planning permission for two storey extension to one side and one storey extension to the other side. We still did not apply for the building regulations (our architect wants £800 to do the work..is that reasonable?) but would like to approach few building firms for (ball park)quotes...how many firms should I try? Is it better to contract a firm for one extension and then If we like it do the other one or give them the whole job from start? Any advice will be much appreciated

arbrighton

There is quite a bit of work to prep the stuff for building regs and the relevant drawings.
When we had our works done, the architect also prepped a spec for builders to quote to, which was helpful. It meant the quotes were like for like

System

if you go out to a builder with a set of planning drawings the prices you get back are likely to be unreliable, the more information you can provide to a builder to price, the more cost certainty you will have.
£800 is reasonable for two extensions drawings

are you planning on doing both extensions one after the other?
you would likely get some cost savings if both were done at the same time...

Furts

Lots of builders are busy. If an approach is made for a figure do not be surprised if you receive refusals or failed appointments. In effect, builders exist to run a business and make a profit, and not to supply free estimates to those who have not finalised their design details.

Some builders may respond - this would depend on market conditions where you live.

The prudent course of action is to get the Buildings Regulations. You are tied into your designer and it is likely that another designer would be reluctant to become involved now.

cayennepepper

I doubt it you will get a quote without Building Reg drawings. £800 sounds like a bargain, I was quoted double that.

sam1970

Thank you guys for all your thoughts. The fees for build.regs are actually £1050 (inc. VAT)..my mistake in putting the wrong figure.

Regarding the quotes, I was hoping to get a ball park quote to give me an idea on the cost..I appreciate it will not be very accurate but at least Iam expecting it to be within a reasonable range (may be +/- £5000)...Is that reasonable expectation?

cayennepepper

I am also getting quotes for an extension and every building company I contacted told me to call them back when I have drawings. One builder came round to have a look anyway but still refused to give me a ball park figure without technical drawings.

Doozergirl

Did you read the forum rules, Quantity Surveyor?

You'll be banned shortly.