A method built to close the gaps where jobs fail

From first call to the end of the defects period

Construction goes wrong in predictable places: scope that was never written down, trades sequenced by convenience, work covered up before it was checked, and variations agreed verbally and argued about at the end. Our method exists to close those four gaps.

Money, variations and the things people fall out over

Payment by milestone

Payments are tied to defined stages — for example, substructure complete, roof complete, finishes complete — not to calendar dates. You pay for work you can see and check.

Variations in writing

Any change to the scope is priced and agreed before it is executed. No client should discover a variation on the final account.

Materials supplied by the client

Where a client supplies materials, we inspect on delivery and record what was accepted. Defects arising from client-supplied material are not a contractor's liability, and we say so at the start rather than at the end.

Programme delays

Where a delay is ours, we say so and give a recovery programme. Where it is caused by design changes, funding, weather or a client decision, we record it in writing at the time it happens.

Defects liability

A defined period after handover during which we return and put right defects in our work at no charge. The length is agreed in the contract.

The quantity surveyor

Where a client appoints a quantity surveyor — including Peterch QS, the practice of this company — valuations and payment certificates run through that appointment. We work to it without complaint, including when it reduces our application.