1. Mortgage lenders will require the issue of a Certificate issued by an Architect on completion of the building works involved in the construction of houses or flats. Certificates may be required by:

• house builders who are employing non-NHBC registered contractors
• self-builders
• developers/contractors who are not registered with NHBC
• private individuals who are procuring a building on a separate trades basis

Before a Certificate can be issued, periodic inspections at all critical stages of the construction must be carried out.

2. Inspections will usually take place on completion of the following stages:

2.1 TIMBER FRAMED DOMESTIC SCALE BUILDINGS

2.1.1 Site stripping and excavation of foundation trenches.

2.1.2 Underbuilding to DPC/wall plate level.

2.1.3 Erection of basic timber frame structure: wall panels, roof trusses, and sarking.

2.1.4 Roof tiling or slating; windows, glazing, external doors (wind and watertight) partition framing; plumber and electrical first fix.

2.1.5 Plasterboarding, joiner finishing; installation of plumbing and heating fittings.

2.1.6 Overall completion, including external works to satisfy Building Regulations.

2.2 TRADITIONAL CONSTRUCTION, FLATS, CONVERSIONS, EXTENSIONS, AND OTHER CATEGORIES OF BUILDING

Generally as for timber frame buildings, but inspections will be related to the individual project. Usually, six or seven inspections will be carried out during construction.

3. The purpose of the inspections is to check that the work is being carried out in a satisfactory manner, in accordance with good building practice, and generally in conformity with the plans which have been approved by the Local Authority.

4. FEES:

Usually, a lump sum fee, including expenses, will be quoted, and payment will be in instalments as the project progresses

Where sites are in remote or distant locations, it may be necessary to charge for additional travelling costs.

VAT at standard rate is applicable to all fees and expenses.

5. CERTIFICATES

This service includes the provision of a Final Inspection Certificate in the form prescribed by The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland. In many cases, mortgage lenders will require a Professional Consultant's Certificate (known as a CML Certificate). If necessary, a CML Certificate can be provided

6. EXCLUSIONS

This service does not include day to day supervision, checking of dimensions and levels, progress chasing, acting as agent between client and contractor, contract management, or other executive responsibilities.