Self Build Project Management

WHAT IS SELF-BUILD PROJECT MANAGEMENT?

Project managers (PMs) are there to manage and deliver a project within the budget and time parameters set, and to the expected quality level. Key skills include general management, troubleshooting, problem solving, quality-checking and diplomacy, as well as in-depth knowledge of construction practices and the built environment.

Health and Safety

The PM will also oversee health and safety on site. A PM will create a schedule for the works. They’ll manage individual contractors, trades, suppliers, and services, and decide when each one needs to be on site.

Contractor Management

They’ll handle staged sign offs for payment from contractors and negotiate the pricing structure around any variations that may arise, as well as any discounts with suppliers. Executing contracts and notices relative to the tenders will also be the project manager’s responsibility.

Liaise and Co-ordinate

PMs need to liaise closely with the Client, Quantity Surveyor, Principal Designer and Principal Contractor, of course. But also with neighbours, material suppliers, hire companies, contractors, utility providers and building professionals – such as structural engineers, warranty surveyors and building control.

Project Manager – Requisite Skills

All of this will require a significant commitment. For some, project managing is a full-time job, for others, an involved hobby. If you’re a client considering doing it yourself, the key question is how many of the requisite skills you can bring to the table – and how you’ll fill any knowledge gaps. All these responsibilities demand a good knowledge of finance and construction, which is where clients taking on the role themselves can sometimes struggle.