You may already have an understanding of what a project manager can do for you but before you make up your mind, here’s some common Q&As to put you firmly in the picture.

What does a project manager do?

They’re an independent expert who oversees your build or renovation from start to finish. They take away the stress by resolving complex building issues and making decisions on your behalf to keep the project moving forward on time and on budget – and to the design. Key responsibilities: managing costs, sourcing and managing trades, setting-up and following a programme of works, site set-up, sourcing and ordering materials, co-ordinating deliveries and site equipment, handling disputes, health and safety responsibility.

They’re an expensive luxury when I can do the work myself.

This depends how you look at it. To do the job well yourself, you’ll need plenty of time and energy – it’s usually a full-time job. Without expertise and contacts, the savings you make could end up becoming a false economy. A project manager won’t have the same emotional attachment to the project as you and their impartial view could avoid costly mistakes being made. They’ll charge 5-10% of the total project cost but add a lot of value.

How does a project manager add value?

You’re employing their knowledge and expertise. A project manager has an in depth understanding of the construction process. They’ll be a fantastic organiser and have great leadership skills to source and manage trades – it’s wise to choose someone that has a ‘little black book’ of reliable contacts they work with on a regular basis. Remember, there’s a lot of trades to find – carpenters, joiners, bricklayers, plumbers, electricians, window fitters, tiler, kitchen fitter, flooring contractor, decorators, plus any specialists that might be needed.

A project manager will also make sure your house is built to a high standard exactly to the design. They’ll keep an eye on costs, sourcing bulk order materials for negotiated discounts with trusted suppliers, and advising if there’s room to spend a little more, or where to save. They’ll also have the experience to resolve technical building issues and/or disputes, as well as have the people skills to deal with everyone else involved – delivery drivers, hire companies, utility firms, building control, neighbours.

What if I want to do some of the work myself?

This isn’t a problem if you work with a project managers who are flexible. Set-out exactly who’s responsible for what before you begin and keep it simple – after all, you’ll become another person the PM needs to manage. For example, if you decide to be in charge of ordering materials then you’ll need to work closely with the project manager to meet the delivery dates on the schedule. Likewise, if you have particular trades you want to bring in. It’s common for homeowners to take control over decisions for the kitchen, bathrooms and flooring.

Where can I find reputable project managers?

Always employ someone who’s worked on a similar project to yours and comes recommended. We might be able to help, but also look at projects coming to an end in your local area. Self-build magazines, such as Build It and Homebuilding & Renovating, publish self-build stories where homeowners often recommend project managers in their list of useful contacts.