Our Services

Commercial management in construction involves overseeing and controlling the financial and contractual aspects of construction projects. This role is critical for ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required standards. The key responsibilities and aspects of our commercial management services include:

 

Cost Management:

• Budgeting: Preparing and managing the project budget, ensuring that costs are controlled and monitored throughout the project lifecycle.

• Cost Estimation: Estimating the costs of materials, labour, plant, and other resources required for the project.

• Cost Reporting:Regularly reporting on the financial status of the project to stakeholders.

 

We provide cost estimates and budgeting services to ensure clients receive better value for money in both the design and construction phases. We prepare cost estimates using index-linked software aligned with current cost changes, referencing cost data from previous projects. Effective cost planning ensures a realistic estimate between parties from successful cost tendering to agreeing on final accounts.

Selecting the right method for procuring construction works is crucial. It is important to choose the right contractor and ensure that the contract documentation and form of contract are appropriate to the project. Procurement services encompass a range of activities related to acquiring the necessary goods, services, and works required for the successful completion of construction projects. The procurement process is essential for ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. Our procurement services include:

 

• Supplier Selection:Identifying and selecting suppliers and subcontractors. Conducting pre-qualification processes to create a shortlist of capable suppliers and contractors. Issuing tenders and requests for proposals (RFPs) to invite bids from suppliers and contractors. Evaluating bids based on criteria such as price, quality, experience, and capacity to deliver.

• Purchasing:Procuring materials and services required for the project by managing the supply chain to ensure timely delivery.

• Risk Identification:Identifying potential risks that could impact the project and developing strategies to mitigate identified risks, such as supplier default or delivery delays.

We provide valuation services to determine the monetary value of work completed on a construction project at various stages. This process is essential for financial management, ensuring that payments to contractors and subcontractors are made accurately and in a timely manner. It involves assessing the value of completed work, materials on-site, and any variations or changes to the contract. Key aspects include:

 

• Interim Valuation:Periodic assessments carried out throughout the construction project to determine the value of work completed to date. Typically conducted monthly, but can vary depending on the contract terms. Based on interim valuations, progress payments are made to the contractor to cover the work completed and materials on-site.

• Final Valuation:Conducted at the end of the project to determine the total value of the completed work, forming the basis for the preparation of the final account, which summarises all costs and payments, including adjustments for variations and claims.

 

Valuation in construction is a critical process that ensures the financial health of a construction project. It involves the careful assessment and certification of completed work and materials on-site, enabling timely and accurate payments to contractors and subcontractors. Effective valuation helps maintain cash flow, control costs, and ensure compliance with contractual terms, thereby contributing to the overall success of the project.

Contract management and administration in construction involve various activities aimed at ensuring that the terms of the contract are properly executed and that all parties involved in the construction project fulfil their obligations. This function is essential for the smooth operation of construction projects, minimising disputes, and ensuring compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.

 

• Contract Preparation: Drafting and negotiating contracts with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.

• Scope Definition:Clearly defining the scope of work, including detailed specifications and requirements.

• Terms and Conditions: Establishing the terms and conditions, including payment schedules, timelines, and quality standards.

• Risk Allocation:Allocating risks between parties, such as liability, insurance, and performance guarantees.

• Negotiation:Engaging in discussions to agree on terms acceptable to all parties involved.

• Contract Administration: Managing the execution of contracts, ensuring that all parties fulfil their contractual obligations.

• Dispute Resolution:Handling disputes and claims that arise during the project.

To ensure value engineering at early involvement, we assist with comparative costs for alternative methods of construction or finishing. This may involve advising on different construction methods or materials by analysing cost impacts. Value engineering is a systematic and organised approach aimed at optimising the value of a project by evaluating its functions and identifying opportunities to reduce costs without compromising quality, performance, or reliability. The process involves a detailed analysis of materials, design, systems, and construction methods to find the most cost-effective solutions. Key aspects include:

 

• Cost-Effectiveness: Identifying opportunities to reduce costs without compromising quality or performance. Encouraging innovative thinking and the use of new technologies and processes that can lead to better outcomes. Incorporating sustainable practices and materials that reduce environmental impact and contribute to long-term value.

• Efficiency: Improving project efficiency through better planning and resource management. Generating a wide range of ideas and alternative solutions for performing project functions. Conducting a detailed analysis of selected alternatives, including technical feasibility, cost-benefit analysis, and potential risks. Developing detailed recommendations and action plans for implementing the alternatives.

At SN QS and Estimating Services Ltd, we procure construction services through our supply chain of designated suppliers and tradesmen. We ensure proper selection and management of the quality of our suppliers to ensure continuous delivery of the works and mitigate the risk of tradesmen disappearing halfway through the process. House extensions and renovation services are a significant part of the services we provide for the residential construction sector. These services help homeowners expand and improve their living spaces, increasing both functionality and property value. Here is an overview of our house extension and renovation services:

 

House Extensions:

• Single-Storey Extensions:Adding one level of additional space to the side, rear, or front of the existing house.

• Double-Storey Extensions:Extending the house by two levels, typically to the side or rear.

• Loft Conversions: Transforming an attic or loft space into a usable room, such as a bedroom or office.

• Basement Conversions: Converting an existing basement into a functional living space or digging out a new basement.

• Garage Conversions: Turning a garage into additional living space, such as a playroom, home office, or guest suite.

• Conservatories and Orangeries:Adding a glass room to the house, providing additional living space with a connection to the garden.

 

Renovation and Refurbishment

• Full House Renovation: Comprehensive update and improvement of the entire property, including structural changes, new installations, and redecoration.Kitchen Renovation:** Upgrading kitchen layouts, cabinetry, appliances, and finishes to create a modern, functional space.

• Bathroom Renovation: Updating fixtures, fittings, tiles, and plumbing to improve functionality and aesthetics.

• Living Space Renovation: Enhancing living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas with new flooring, lighting, and decor.

• Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Installing insulation, double glazing, and energy-efficient heating systems to improve the home’s energy performance.

• Structural Repairs:Addressing issues such as subsidence, damp, or roof repairs to ensure the property’s integrity and safety.

 

House extensions and renovation services are crucial for enhancing residential properties, providing additional space, modernising interiors, and increasing property value. By carefully planning and managing these projects, homeowners can achieve their desired outcomes efficiently and effectively.