FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 1) What types of projects do Highgrade undertake?Here at Highgrade we undertake a wide range of different projects. We build a variety of new housing ranging from individual houses to large apartment blocks. We can also offer Groundwork, Brickwork, external work, refurbishment, fit out and a full project management service. 2) Do Highgrade only get involved in new build Housing? No, we have built swimming pools, tennis courts, extensions, driveways, landscaped gardens and retail units and are continually on the look out for new and exciting projects. |
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Generally, a Main Contractor is employed by a client to undertake a building project on their behalf whereas a developer may choose to build the project themselves or employ a main contractor. Highgrade act both as a developer where we build our own sites and as a Main Contractor where we are employed by a client to look after everything from the Sub-Contract procurement to the final snagging.
4) Do Highgrade employ their own labour or do they use Sub-Contractors?
We have our own experienced in-house Groundwork team and Brickwork team which enable us to be very competitively priced on extensions and small jobs for private clients. We also send all of our projects out to competitive tender to 4 sub-contractors for each trade. This ensures we are offering our clients the most competitive price possible and enables us to monitor our build cost to improve efficiency and accuracy when pricing future jobs.
5) What is Project Management? How is it different to pricing the job as a builder?
Project Management means Highgrade take all the responsibility for the project away from the client and manage every aspect of the development from the very start until the job is completed and ready for handover. If a builder is pricing a job, the company will include a percentage on top of the cost for their profit. If the build cost increases, so does the profit of the builder which leaves very little incentive to keep the cost down for the client. With project management, a set fee is agreed to build the development prior to commencement. We will then carry out our competitive tender process to ensure our client receives the best possible price for the job. There is no benefit for Highgrade if the build cost increases.
6) What is the incentive for Highgrade to keep the cost down if they are being guaranteed a fixed project management fee?
At Highgrade we believe in building and developing good working relationships which are based on trust and honesty. We work tirelessly to keep the build cost down so we can demonstrate to our client just how we operate with the hope that we can build on our growing reputation and carry out future developments for these clients. Our thinking is that by providing the best possible service and delivering the lowest build cost, we will earn the trust of our clients and hopefully secure future business with them.
7) If I want a new house built, do I need to produce all the drawings or can Highgrade do this for me?
Most of our clients have already produced planning drawings when they come to us, however, we can be as involved in the design process as the client wishes. We have an experienced team of architects and engineers who can produce all of the necessary working drawings. If you would like us to be involved at planning stage, then we can produce these drawings as well.
8) Can I decide totally on the specification of my home?
Yes of course. Our clients are offered any level of specification they wish. We have been involved in basic affordable properties with minimum specifications right up to prestigious Six Million pound developments with the latest technology new build housing has to offer.
9) What if I want Highgrade to design the specification for me?
Again, this is no problem. Sometimes clients would rather just give us an idea of the level of specification and allow us to decide the details for them. Our interior design experts can assist in suggesting products and features for the client which we feel will increase the value of the property or keep the budget cost down if that is the priority.
10) I have a piece of land to sell, are Highgrade interested in buying it and do I need to obtain planning permission?
We are always on the look out for new sites and are always interested in looking at potential development locations. Generally, land is of a greater interest when it already has planning permission, but Highgrade are able to take care of the planning application and will often make an offer “subject to planning approval”. Please email our land department with any information at land@highgrade.org.uk
11) I run a sub-contract firm and am interested in working for Highgrade either on a current development I have seen or on upcoming projects. How do I get on Highgrade’s tender list?
Simply send an introductory letter into our offices giving an overview of your company, details of any projects you have been involved in, trade references if possible and some indication of what your company can offer. Our address can be found on the “Contact Us” page of this website or you can email us at surveying@highgrade.org.uk
12) I am looking for a full time position within the company, how do I submit my CV and are there any current vacancies?
Vacancies arise in different departments at different times. As Highgrade continues to expand, positions become available to enable us to sustain our level of growth. For current advertised vacancies, please check the “Employment Opportunities” page of the website. To submit a CV please post it to the main office address or by email to jobs@highgrade.org.uk to receive an application form.
13) I am a material supplier and am interested in setting up deals with Highgrade to supply our products in their new homes. Would Highgrade be interested in discussing this?
Yes. We strive to offer our customers the best possible value for their money and are always interested in discussing deals which improve our ability to do that.
14) I’ve seen Highgrade are building on a site near to where I live. I have some concerns about possible noise and public safety; can I contact someone to discuss these?
Yes, we consider the safety of the public to be of the utmost importance and are happy to speak to anyone who would like further information on any particular development and how it may affect them. We understand that often our developments take place in residential areas and we try to ensure that the absolute minimum disruption and inconvenience is caused to our neighbours. We appreciate the co-operation of local residents in these matters who will always be treated with respect and courtesy by Highgrade representatives. If you have any concerns please contact us on the main office number or by email at enquiries@highgrade.org.uk
