Discover the main project management options, what they typically cost and what you’re getting for your money

Every home building project needs to be coordinated by someone: an overarching presence who can make sure things keep moving in the right direction. The big question is, who is best placed to take up the reins and project manage your scheme through to completion? If you have the time, skills and inclination, that person could be you. But if you lack any of those – or you simply have the cash and want the reassurance of an experienced project lead – then you might be better off with another route.

So, how can you choose the right option? “I always say speak to your designer first,” says James Bryden from independent project management specialists CLPM.

“A proper architect should offer to take on at least the contract administration side, and maybe a fuller service. Ask them what they charge and what they’re going to do for the fee.” Armed with that information, you can decide whether it’s value for money for your project, or whether an alternative route would suit you best.

Ultimately, a whole host of factors will influence the final cost of your scheme – from the size of house through to the complexity of the design and specification level.

Project route is part of that picture, too. So, before we get into the pros and cons of the main options, here’s a ballpark guide to how different approaches typically dovetail with new home building costs.

Retired couple Kevin and Christine Choules engaged Castle Ring Oak to supply and erect the superstructure of their dream home, before throwing their heart and souls into project managing. “Once the shell of our home was made watertight, it was a matter of ordering all the materials, from electrical fittings and lights to the gas stove, bathrooms, shower cabinets and more. The checklist is never-ending,” says Kevin. The project took 15 months to complete and cost of £1,412 per m 2 (in 2017-18)

FRASER MARR