Frequently Asked Questions

What is your typical project?

They range from small extensions and conversions with a value of £30,000 to Private Estate large scale luxury new builds with a gross development value in the millions, in the Surrey area.

Why do I need a Project Manager, as I have an architect, can I not employ the various sub contractors myself?

We provide a Site Manager for each project.  They will ensure that all the various trades work seamlessly together, that no time is lost due to lack of supplies or absence of key personnel and work tirelessly to manage the quality and costs aspect of your project.  We can also problem solve and deal with the unexpected contingencies or changes in plan. In this way we can minimise the stress and ensure that you are inconvenienced to the least degree, but also importantly de-risk the project.

Why would I choose Horsley Oak to build my extension or home?

We listen to your thoughts and look at your ideas to come up with the best plan that will suit your needs and take pride in having Horsley Oak’s craftsmanship helping you plan and build your dream home or extension. The project will be broken down into stages and during the building process, we carefully manage each phase of construction until completion; taking care of all details.  Your costs will be made clear at the outset and expenditure tracked and for new build homes, you will have peace of mind with the safeguards of an NHBC guarantee as a warranty.

What factors cause the greatest increase in this cost when designing an extension or home?

There are a number of factors that will affect the ease and cost of your project including ground conditions and access, but most significantly design complexity and construction methods and materials. Interior finish and specification and finally  landscaping may also have to be factored into your budget.
You will need detailed “working” drawings as planning application drawings are not sufficient for a detailed quotation and any quote given without this detail will be strictly “ballpark”.  With these, however, we can provide a fixed quotation and break this down into detailed construction stages. Involving us at an early point in your plans for advice and guidance can ensure that your design brief meets your needs as well as your budget.

I do not know if I can build an extension, given the structure of my house.  Can you advise?

We can provide pre-build advice and if needed help you commission structural engineer, architect, arboriculture, soil analysis and topographical reports.  We can also liaise with the Local Authority planners, building control and NHBC warranty officers.