Unfortunately, there isn’t a template available when it comes to project managing a self build. Every project is different. Some will run smoothly and others will experience problem after problem. How the work is managed will determine the outcome and whether simple steps to avoid issues happening in the first place have been taken.

Here are some tips on how to project manage a self build.

Managing your self build – Is it for you?

While you might save money, it will be at the expense of your time and in all probability, your stress levels. DIY project management is often the choice for those on a tight budget. Undertaken successfully, it cuts out the middle man. Organising everything yourself can save as much as 10 to 20 per cent of the overall cost.

This is an option not to be taken lightly as it may mean compromising your day job. Not only should you be prepared to research the topic carefully, expect your life to no longer be your own.

Overspending on the plot

A common mistake self-builders often make is buying a plot before they have worked out if they can afford to build on it.

Before purchasing a plot, enquire with local estate agents as to the finished valuation of your intended project. Next subtract your estimated build cost and any additional costs. What you have left is the most you can afford to spend on a plot before falling into negative equity.

Don’t deviate from the planning consent

When you gain planning permission, this will undoubtedly include special conditions that have to be met. These are not up for debate unless you make a formal request to have them amended. If you deviate from the consented plans or decide to disregard Building Regulations, then it is likely that someone will find out and you will have to remedy it at your own expense. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to resolve errors, it can also be very stressful, so don’t think about deviating from the approved plans without seeking permission to do so.

Don’t skip on insurance

Building your own home is probably the biggest outlay you will ever make so you need to protect your investment.

Structural warranties and site insurance may seem an unnecessary expense. However, if you ever have cause to make a claim, you will be so glad you’re protected.

If you are taking out a mortgage, a structural warranty will be compulsory. Even if you are a cash builder, you should seriously consider purchasing a 10-year structural warranty. It will protect you against major defects and will provide you with an extra layer of quality control throughout the build.

Site insurance can cover everything from theft of materials and tools to those rare but potentially disastrous events like fire ad extreme weather. This is a vital part to managing your self build.

Don’t take the lowest price when managing your self build

When choosing your contractors, don’t just take the lowest price. An experienced builder will know what a job will really cost. Therefore it is unlikely that they will be the lowest bidder. Always get references and follow them up to confirm that the contractor is competent and capable of doing the job properly.

Don’t be over optimistic with the budget

Self-building will almost always end up costing more than you have budgeted for. It will also inevitably take a little longer than you planned to complete. The key to managing your self build is building to the size and quality that your finances allow rather than thinking you can have what you want and hope that the money will cover it. Always keep a contingency fund of at least 10% of your build costs. You will almost certainly use it and you will be glad it’s there as often something crops up that wasn’t allowed for in the budget but has to be paid for.

Maintain good relationships

Fostering good relationships is key to a managing your self build. Whether you decide to manage it yourself, or take a step back and employ someone to do so on your behalf, there will be times when relations are strained. Things don’t always go according to plan – the delays, the no-shows, the slower than expected progress, but these will always happen at some point during your build. Think about how you might react to set backs. Nobody wants to be shouted out or picked on about everything. Making your site a pleasant place to be for all involved is likely to be reciprocated with a good job.

Allow enough time to order items

When project managing your self build remember some things will have a long lead time therefore to avoid long delays to your project order things in good time. Idle time on site may mean losing labour to other jobs. Remember, the site that maintains continuity comes in on budget.

Don’t forget the neighbours when managing your self build

Good relationships start with your neighbours, who even if they don’t share your dream, will at least have to tolerate it so they don’t object to your plans. Their patience will undoubtedly be tested during what will be a lengthy, often noisy building process. Keep them updated with what’s going on and give them your contact details or those of the site foreman. If they have any problems, they know who to contact.