Problems often arise on building projects when budgets and timescales are exceeded. We can provide an accurate budget cost at the very earliest stage before detailed design commences, using information from the RICS Building Cost Information Service and our own library of costs. We can work with architects and designers to ensure that the final cost and timescale is in line with original expectations.

Cost control aims to balance costs over the building and keep the final costs within the original budget. In order to acheive this, it is essential that both the design and construction stages are closely controlled. this is achieved by regular checking and where necessary taking action to bring the cost back to budget.

Design Cost Control - may start with the client's need for an accurate total cost from very little project information. Once viability has been established, alternative design methods can be considered and an outline cost plan can be prepared. As the design develops, checks will be made and the cost plan re-appraised where appropriate. When the production information has been completed tender documentation will be prepared in order to obtain competitve quotations for work. 

Construction Cost Control - financial control continues when work starts on site. Anything which is extra or changes the work in any way is likely to increase the final cost of the project. Expenditure on variations must be controlled. The client will be provided with a regular report, advising the likely final cost. The client will also be advised as to the interim amounts he will need to pay to the contractor during the course of the work.

Development Appraisals - We are able to make an evaluation of the profitability of a development scheme or advise on the value of a peice of land given a required return. We consider development factors including land, building cost, rent/prices, interest rates, investment yields and timescale. We can provide a total development appraisal or an evaluation of building cost alone.