A building project is dozens of decisions, trades and deadlines. Someone has to coordinate it. The question is whether that someone should be you, your builder or a dedicated project manager.
What does a project manager do?
A good construction project manager or site manager typically:
- Plans the programme and sequences the trades
- Controls the budget, tracks costs and agrees variations
- Manages suppliers and subcontractors, and orders materials in time
- Deals with approvals and building control inspections
- Handles health and safety and site organisation
- Reports to you with progress updates and decisions needed
- Manages snagging and handover
Do you need one?
| Project type | Is a project manager needed? |
|---|---|
| Small refurbishment or single trade | Usually not; the contractor manages the job |
| Single-storey extension with one main builder | Often the builder's site manager is enough |
| Multiple trades or phases, or a complex two-storey scheme | Helpful |
| New build, self-build or barn-style projects | Strongly recommended |
| Small development for sale or rent | Essential |
If you are time-poor, living away from the site or inexperienced with building, a project manager can protect your time and budget.
Options
1. Main contractor manages everything
Under a single contract the builder coordinates trades and is responsible for the programme. This is the simplest route for most homeowners.
2. Hire an independent project manager
They work for you, review quotes, monitor quality and challenge the contractor. Fees are often quoted as a percentage of build cost (commonly in the region of 5–15% for smaller projects) or a fixed or time-based fee.
3. Manage it yourself
It can save money on paper but demands time, knowledge and strong organisation. Mistakes are expensive, and you take on the legal responsibilities of a client.
Health and safety: you are the client
Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, domestic clients have duties, but these are normally passed to the contractor on single-contractor projects and to a principal contractor and principal designer when there are several. Check how this is allocated in your contract.
What to look for
- Experience on similar projects
- A clear scope of services and fee
- References
- Good communication and reporting
Project and site management at Abron Contracting
Abron Contracting provides project and site management for homeowners, developers and property owners in Newport and beyond, covering planning of the programme, coordination of trades, cost control, quality and handover. See also our guide to design and build versus architect and builder and our new build cost guide.
To discuss project management for your build, contact us or call 01633379170.
Frequently asked questions
What does a construction project manager do?
They plan and coordinate the programme, trades, materials, budget, quality and safety, and report progress to the client.
How much does a project manager cost?
Often a percentage of build cost (commonly a few per cent up to about 15%) or a fixed fee, depending on the scope and size of the project.
Do I need a project manager for an extension?
Usually not, if one builder manages the whole job. Complex or multi-phase projects benefit from one.
Can my builder act as project manager?
Often, yes, under a single contract. Check what is included in their price.
Is project management worth the cost?
Often, on larger or complex projects, because it helps prevent delays, rework and overspend.
