New Builds

Yes. We can support customers through the different stages of a new-build project, from understanding the proposed development and establishing the scope through to construction and final handover. The exact services required depend on the project. A new build may involve design coordination, planning considerations, structural work, foundations, construction, plumbing, electrical installation, roofing, insulation, internal finishes and final preparation. For larger developments, we establish the responsibilities of each professional and contractor before work begins so that the project is properly coordinated.

The first step is to establish what you want to build, where you want to build it and what you want the finished property to achieve. We can discuss the proposed development, property requirements, size, layout, intended use and your expectations. From there, we can identify the information and professional input required before construction can begin. Depending on the project, this may include architectural drawings, structural design, planning permission, Building Regulations approval, surveys, specifications and other specialist information.

We can help coordinate the construction requirements, but planning and design responsibilities must be allocated appropriately for each project. Where the project requires an architect, structural engineer, building control professional, surveyor or other specialist, those professionals may need to be appointed to provide the relevant design, calculations, approvals or certification. Our role is to ensure the construction works are based on the appropriate information and agreed scope before work begins.

There is no responsible single price for a new build because every project is different. The overall cost can be affected by the size and design of the property, ground conditions, foundations, structural requirements, materials, finishes, labour, access, utilities, professional fees, planning requirements and the complexity of the build. We develop pricing around the actual project rather than quoting an unrealistic figure that does not reflect the specification.

A reliable new-build quotation requires a sufficiently developed scope and specification. We consider the drawings, specifications, structural information, materials, finishes, labour, site conditions, access and project requirements available at the time of pricing. If important information has not yet been confirmed, we identify this rather than making assumptions that could create significant variations later.

Existing ground and site conditions can sometimes differ from information available before construction. If unexpected conditions are discovered and they materially affect the design, construction method, materials or cost, we will explain what has been discovered, why it matters and what options are available. Any significant change to the agreed scope or additional cost should be discussed and approved before the additional work proceeds wherever reasonably possible.

Where Lucy & Phil has been appointed to coordinate the construction works, we can organise the relevant trades around the project programme. A new build can involve groundworks, foundations, structural work, brickwork, roofing, plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, plastering, flooring, decorating and specialist installations. Proper sequencing is important because many trades depend on previous stages being completed correctly.

Health and safety is considered throughout the planning and construction process. Depending on the project and its risk profile, appropriate arrangements can include risk assessments, method statements, site controls, PPE, safe access and egress, equipment controls, housekeeping, protection of workers and members of the public, and management of construction hazards. For projects subject to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, the relevant client, designer and contractor duties must be identified and managed appropriately.

Where appropriate, we can prepare and use risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) for construction activities. These establish the hazards associated with the planned work and the control measures and safe working procedures to be followed. For commercial developments or sites with their own contractor-management systems, we can also work with the client's reasonable site rules, induction requirements, RAMS procedures and health and safety requirements.

The requirements depend on the specific development. Planning permission, Building Regulations approval and other statutory requirements are separate matters and should be established during the design and pre-construction stage. Where professional drawings, structural calculations, building-control involvement or other specialist documentation is required, these should be obtained from the appropriately qualified professional before the relevant work proceeds. We do not assume that every new build has identical approval requirements.

Quality needs to be managed throughout construction rather than checked only when the building is finished. We work from the agreed scope, drawings, specifications and required standards, with the relevant stages coordinated and reviewed as the project progresses. Where applicable, inspections and checks are carried out at appropriate stages, and issues identified during the project should be addressed before they affect subsequent work.

Changes can sometimes be accommodated, but they should be addressed as early as possible. A change can affect materials, labour, programme, structural requirements, other trades and overall cost. We will assess the proposed change and explain its implications. Where additional costs or changes to the programme are involved, we aim to obtain approval before proceeding with the revised work.

The programme depends on the size, design and complexity of the property, ground conditions, construction method, availability of materials and trades, statutory requirements and the specification of the finished building. Rather than promising an unrealistic completion date, we establish a programme around the actual project requirements and identify important stages and dependencies.

As construction approaches completion, the focus moves towards finishing works, testing, inspections, making good, cleaning, snagging and preparation for handover. Any relevant certificates, approvals or completion documentation should be dealt with by the appropriate professionals and authorities as required for the project. Lucy & Phil can also coordinate related services such as post-construction cleaning, removals, storage, property preparation and ongoing maintenance.

Completion does not necessarily have to be the end of the relationship. Lucy & Phil can continue supporting the property through property maintenance, repairs, cleaning, grounds or other property services, depending on your requirements. For landlords, developers and property owners, this can provide a more convenient way of managing the property after construction rather than starting again with completely different contractors.