Planning your project · 3 MIN READ
Before you build: where to begin
A little preparation makes the first engineering conversation more useful.
Start with the decision you need to make
Write a short description of what you would like to build or change. Include where the project is, who will use it and what you need help deciding. You do not need every technical answer before making an enquiry.
Gather the information you already have
Bring together current drawings, photographs, survey information and previous reports. Note which documents are current and which describe an earlier version of the project. Missing information can be identified during the scoping conversation.
Keep the two budgets separate
Your construction budget and your engineering consultancy fee cover different things. Tell the engineer what the construction budget is intended to include, and ask what the professional fee covers, including deliverables and any exclusions.
Make the next step clear
Before appointing a consultant, agree the scope, the information you need to provide and the expected stages of work. A clear brief helps everyone understand what is being prepared and when decisions are needed.