Should You Project Manage an Extension or Renovation Yourself?

If you’re working on an extension or renovation, you might think project managers are an unnecessary expense or will take your control away from the project. If you’re confused about whether or not this is a role you could actually fulfil yourself, don’t fear. In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

What is a project manager?

First and foremost, what does a project manager do? Project managers take on the responsibility of managing the development of your extension, coordinating builders and tradespeople, speaking with the local authority, and ordering materials.

In essence, you give them the designs and guidelines for the renovation, and they take charge of the hard work for you – all whilst working within your timeframe, budget, and specifications.

If you’re not familiar with renovations or you’re strapped for time, then employing a professional project manager can be a life-saver that helps to deliver your dream home. However, there are some other factors to consider – not least the kind of workload you’re taking on…

What does project managing involve?

If you decide to take on the role of project manager, there will be several key tasks on your list. These include:

• Interacting and coordinating with tradespeople, including designers and builders
• Creating and implementing timescales and deadlines for your project
• Ordering materials and arranging for any other required services, such as hiring a skip
• Liaising with other relevant organisations and individuals, including speaking with the local authorities about any building regulations and requirements

Some things to consider

The size of your renovations

Generally speaking, the smaller the renovation, the bigger the benefits of being your own project manager. For one thing, due to fixed prices, project manager fees can be considerably higher for smaller projects. Larger projects are also usually quite complex, requiring you to liaise with more tradespeople and contractors – so it’s not always the right choice if you have other things on your to-do list.

The timescale

Time is an important consideration. If you’re working full time, for example, how will you oversee all the project management responsibilities alongside your other commitments? Do you have a set time frame to complete the project? If time is an issue, then some professional support may be beneficial.

Your required level of control

Though project managers will consult you on the most important issues of your renovation, there will always be times when they need to make a decision to enable contractors to do their job. You need to be clear on whether you feel comfortable with this. If you’re a stickler for small details, then it might be better for you to manage the project yourself.

Award-winning architects for house extensions and renovations

Whether you decide to hire a project manager or do the work yourself, it always helps to have the experts by your side. As award-winning, Sheffield-based architects, we have the knowledge and experience to ensure the design and planning of your renovation runs smoothly.

If you’d like to learn more about our services, take a look at our portfolio of house renovations and extensions – or get in touch with our friendly team today.