Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is a project manager? A successful Project Manager must fully understand client requirements in order to simultaneously plan, organise, monitor and control all labour and materials to ensure those requirements are met. 2. What do you mean when you say you are independent We are not tied to, nor have any contractual relationships, with any organization, supplier, architect or builder. We are employed only by our clients and hence can make decisions for the best interest of our client. 3. How are you different to a builder? Think of us as your prime contractor. We organise all labour and materials on your behalf with you paying the contractors and suppliers direct. However, unlike a builder our fees for managing your project are fixed at the contract start so there are no hidden costs associated with extra material mark ups, hidden profits, risk associated within builders prices. We are therefore, acting entirely in your best interests throughout the project. – click here 4. How do you ensure that quality tradesmen are used? We only use bona fida tradesmen who are recommended and/or who are members of accredited schemes, e.g. CORGI, Federation of Master Builders, and National Federation of Roofing Contractors. Our tender documentation is tailored specifically to your requirements and our experience is that poor tradesmen are usually reluctant to tender when they cannot hide behind ambiguity. We always take references and on-site checks when using new contractors. 5. Why do your fees include VAT when I am a self builder? Current VAT rules require that all professional services e.g. architect, project manager, surveyor and managing contractor are exempt from the normal zero rating for self build activities and must, therefore, charge VAT at the standard rate (HMRC Notice 708 Paragraph 3.4). 6. How can you save me money? All supplier and material costs are paid directly by you, hence you not only have control but you also make significant cost savings – click here to see how 7. When would you normally get involved with a project? Once you have planning permission to build your property but before you apply for building regulations approval as we would normally submit this on your behalf. 8. What is the difference between planning consent and building regulations approval? Planning permission relates to the site, design, size, height and bulk of the development and its impact on neighbouring properties and the surrounding area. It is concerned with how your property and site will look once completed. Building control relates to the actual construction and uses the current Building Regulations to ensure, by inspection and approval, that the work is safe, healthy, minimises heat loss and can also have provision for disabled access. It is solely concerned with how well your property has been built. © 2009 Oghma Project Services Ltd Quality without compromise Construction Project Management