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Advice needed on building specification please

  • 20-10-2013 8:03pm
    #1
    Closed Accounts Posts: 27


    I have recently been granted planning permission for a 2500 sq foot dormer house and am about to go about the process of finding a builder. For tendering purposes I have the plans that were submitted to the planning authority, as well as a generic specification given to me by my architectural technician.
    During the application process a number of issues arose with my architectural technician, leading to a breakdown in trust. I have been left wondering whether the specification given to me is adequate and fit for task and also whether the plans are correct and sufficiently detailed for construction purposes. The specification is a generic housing specification, runs to 30 pages and seems quite detailed. However, I know that it was not in any way tailored it to my particular house and wonder should it have been?
    To put my mind at ease I feel that it would be a good idea to have an impartial qualified third party examine the plans and the spec to ensure that they are correct.
    Can anyone advise who this professional would be? Quantity surveyor? Engineer? Would doing so be costly? Or if I can find a builder I can trust would they be able to advise whether the documents are fit for purpose? As is probably obvious, I am very new to the whole area of construction and need some guidance. I don’t want inadequacies in the plans or specs to cause problems during the course of the build.
    Any advice would be really appreciated.


Comments

  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 41,590 Mod ✭✭✭✭Gumbo


    You need somebody that will tailor the spec to suit YOUR house. Who are you using to supervise the builders work and ensure the work is up to current building regulations?

    Maybe the same person can draw up a detailed spec for tendering process.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 27 PeachPie


    I haven't got anybody yet, who would it be advisable to get for that? And is it mandatory to have someone ensure it complies with building regulations?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,740 ✭✭✭hexosan


    PeachPie wrote: »
    I haven't got anybody yet, who would it be advisable to get for that? And is it mandatory to have someone ensure it complies with building regulations?

    If your starting out to build and you haven't even researched enough to answer this question yourself, I'm afraid your build is doomed to failure.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,300 ✭✭✭martinn123


    hexosan wrote: »
    If your starting out to build and you haven't even researched enough to answer this question yourself, I'm afraid your build is doomed to failure.

    That comment is very harsh, but unfortunately typical.

    In the opening post, it is explained that an Arch Tech, was employed, who looked after Planning apparently, but there are some difficulties in that relationship.

    Rather than condemning the Build ''To Failure'' at this stage, perhaps the Forum will live up to its purpose by providing some practical advice, to a reasonable post looking for information.


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 41,590 Mod ✭✭✭✭Gumbo


    PeachPie wrote: »
    I haven't got anybody yet, who would it be advisable to get for that? And is it mandatory to have someone ensure it complies with building regulations?

    You need to employ an Architect/Engineer/Surveyor to over see your build.
    You need somebody that will draft up a spec to ensure it meets minimum Building Regulations.
    You need somebody that will design and certify the foundations, roof structure and everything in between.

    Then at the end you need a certificate of compliance wuith building and planning regulations from a professional (one of the above wo has been engaged from the start), that carries PI insurance etc

    When are you starting the build and where are you based?


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  • Closed Accounts Posts: 27 PeachPie


    Thanks for the advice. Based in Munster, rather not be too specific. We hope to start building next Spring/early Summer.


  • Moderators, Home & Garden Moderators Posts: 10,146 Mod ✭✭✭✭BryanF


    PeachPie wrote: »
    Thanks for the advice. Based in Munster, rather not be too specific. We hope to start building next Spring/early Summer.
    in that case you need a chartered eng, arch to sign-off

    at this stage you should be looking at the
    1. BER rating &
    2. detailed design drawings
    3. researching heating systems that suit you


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 27 PeachPie


    Ok will look into that. Thanks for the tip. Obviously a lot to learn!


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 41,590 Mod ✭✭✭✭Gumbo


    PeachPie wrote: »
    Thanks for the advice. Based in Munster, rather not be too specific. We hope to start building next Spring/early Summer.

    Based on that, you will be starting during the new Building Control Act, and therefore, need to engage a professional before you evel lodge the Commencement Notice.
    PeachPie wrote: »
    Ok will look into that. Thanks for the tip. Obviously a lot to learn!

    http://www.boards.ie/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=2056921361


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