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Contractors cannot legally start work without owner consent. Leaseholders need freeholder permission for structural works.

Projects stall when a co-owner disagrees or cannot be reached for approvals mid-project. Align before you start.

Contractors cannot price accurately without drawings. Vague briefs produce vague quotes and scope disputes.

Some works require planning permission before a contractor can legally start. Permitted development has limits.

Any works involving beams, steels, or load-bearing walls need a structural engineer's calculations before tender.

Affects cost and programme. Full Plans submission takes longer but provides more certainty.

Works to shared walls or within 3 metres of a neighbour’s foundation require party wall notices. Non-compliance is a legal risk.

Provides contractors with enough information to prepare a credible tender without multiple site visits.

Unknown surveys = unknown risks = variable pricing. Share what you have.

Build-over approval from the sewer authority is needed if the footprint sits within 3 metres of a public sewer.

Relocation costs can materially change a quote. Flag early.

Without a budget range, contractors cannot tell you whether a project is feasible or where to value-engineer.

An independent estimate from a QS or estimating service is the benchmark that protects you in a tender process.

Projects that stall mid-works because funding fell through are the most expensive outcome for everyone.

UK construction payments typically follow milestone-based stage payments. Understand what you're committing to.

Contractors have lead times. Programmes starting within 4 weeks of tender close are high-risk without pre-commitment.

Occupied properties require sequencing. Notify contractors — it affects programme, welfare facilities, and risk.

Street access, permits, and neighbour relations can delay a start. Prepare early.

UK construction almost always surfaces unforeseen items — particularly in older properties. Contingency is not pessimism, it is professionalism.

Undefined procurement causes gaps. If you supply the kitchen but the contractor expected to, they will not have priced the installation interface correctly.

Some trades need long lead times or separate appointments. Confirm who procures them and who coordinates.