From first call to completion certificate — our full process
Most homeowners have never managed a building project before. We built our process around that reality — so you know what to expect at every stage, nothing gets lost, and you're never in the dark.
We call it A to Z delivery — meaning we take responsibility for your project from the first conversation to the day you receive your completion certificate. You don't juggle trades. You don't chase Building Control. You don't manage sequences. We do.
You get in touch — we respond fast
Most of our enquiries come by phone, WhatsApp, or through this website. You tell us about your project — the type of work, the property, roughly what you're thinking. That's all we need at this stage.
We respond within a few hours (usually the same day) and one of our team will ask a few focused questions to understand your project properly. This is not a sales call. It's a short qualification — so that when we visit your property, we already know what we're looking at and can make the most of the time.
We help you think through what's possible
If your plans are still at the idea stage — no drawings, no planning decision — we can help you think through feasibility before you spend money on an architect or surveys. We have seen hundreds of London projects across every borough and know what tends to work, what planning normally allows, what structural implications look like, and what affects buildability and cost.
If you already have drawings or planning permission, we review them carefully and flag anything that needs resolving before we price.
We visit your property — at no cost
We carry out a thorough survey of your property. This is not a 20-minute walk-around. We look at the structure, the existing condition, access, drainage, external constraints, neighbour considerations, and any factors that might affect programme or cost.
We bring what we know about your project from the initial conversation — so the visit is focused and efficient. The survey is completely free and carries no obligation to proceed.
We build your detailed scope and price
After the survey, we build a proper scope of works — not a one-line quote. This covers demolition, structure, first-fix M&E, insulation, plastering, second-fix, joinery, kitchen and bathroom if applicable, external works, Building Regulations requirements, and any project-specific items.
The estimate is based on real quantities, current material prices, and our actual labour costs — not a number designed to win the job and grow later. Where there is genuine uncertainty (for example, an unopened chimney breast or unknown drain positions), we flag it and explain why.
Everything agreed in writing before we start
You receive a full written proposal — scope, price, programme, and the basis of the estimate. If you want to proceed, a formal contract is issued covering the agreed scope, payment schedule, variation procedure, and programme. Nothing is assumed. Nothing is verbal.
We use straightforward contract terms written in plain English. The contract protects both sides and gives you clarity on what is and is not included, what changes the price, and what happens if anything varies from the agreed scope.
We prepare properly before anyone arrives on site
Once the contract is signed, we don't just turn up with tools. We coordinate structural engineer details, Building Control applications, party wall notices, material procurement, trade scheduling, and site set-up before the first day on site.
You receive a programme showing the key stages, milestone dates, and when we will need decisions from you. The pre-construction phase is where most avoidable problems are prevented — and where our process separates us from builders who skip straight to the skip.
One team. One point of contact. No trade juggling
Your project is managed by a dedicated site manager who is your single point of contact throughout. You do not deal with individual trades. You do not manage sequences or resolve trade clashes. We handle it.
Progress photos and written updates are provided at agreed intervals. Any issue that arises on site — and there is always something in construction — is communicated to you clearly, with the facts, the options, and a recommendation. You make informed decisions. We execute them.
We check before we cover — not after
Quality control is progressive. First-fix electrical and plumbing is inspected before plastering covers it. Structural work is signed off by the Building Inspector before we proceed. Tiling, joinery, and finishes are snagged before the next trade moves in.
Building Control inspections are coordinated by us — you do not need to chase them. Where a Building Inspector raises a point, we resolve it and ensure the paperwork follows. Our goal is a clean Building Regulations completion certificate at the end, not an ongoing set of open items.
A proper finish — with the paperwork to prove it
At practical completion, we carry out a thorough snagging inspection with you. Any items on the list are resolved promptly — not at some undefined point in the future. Once the snag list is clear, we compile your handover pack.
Your handover pack includes your Building Regulations completion certificate, structural and specialist warranties, electrical and plumbing test certificates, as-built drawings where applicable, and care and maintenance guidance. You have everything you need for future sale, re-mortgage, or planning applications.
Why process matters — and why most projects go wrong
The reason building projects overrun, overspend, and cause stress is rarely the quality of tradespeople. It is the absence of a proper management structure.
Common questions about our process
How long does a typical project take from first contact to completion?
This varies considerably by project type. A bathroom renovation can complete in 2–3 weeks. A loft conversion typically takes 8–12 weeks on site. A double-storey extension with full refurbishment can run to 20–30 weeks. We give you a programme before work starts so you know the realistic timeline for your specific project.
Do I need an architect before I contact RCB?
No. We work with clients at all stages — from early idea through to a project with planning permission and full technical drawings. If you don't yet have an architect, we can advise on whether you need one, and refer you to suitable practices we have worked with. Some projects (small extensions, loft conversions under permitted development) can proceed without a full architect package.
What does 'fixed price' actually mean?
Our fixed price covers everything in the agreed scope of works. If we find something unexpected on site that changes the scope — for example, an unknown structural issue behind a wall — we tell you immediately, explain the options, and issue a written variation for your approval before any additional cost is incurred. We do not add costs at the end without prior written agreement.
Do I have to vacate the property during the works?
Not necessarily. Whether you stay or go depends on the extent of the works, the part of the property affected, and your personal preference. We have delivered projects with the property fully occupied throughout, and others that required the client to vacate. We discuss this as part of the pre-construction planning and help you make the most practical decision.
Who manages Building Control and inspections?
We do. Building Control applications, book inspections, and manage any technical responses are all coordinated by RCB. You don't need to deal with the council or an approved inspector — we handle all of it and ensure the correct inspections happen at the correct stages.
What is a party wall agreement and do I need one?
A Party Wall Agreement is a legal document required under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 when work affects a shared wall, boundary, or is excavated close to a neighbour's foundation. Extensions and loft conversions frequently trigger this requirement. We identify whether it applies to your project and advise on the process — you appoint a party wall surveyor, not us, but we make sure everything is coordinated.
Ready to start your project?
Tell us what you're planning. We'll respond within a few hours, help you think through what's realistic, and arrange a free survey when you're ready.