Frequently Asked Questions
Below are a few of the more common questions we get asked. If you have a question we haven’t answered, please email hello@cheshirebuild.co.uk and we’ll add it to the list.
About Your Project
Yes. Cheshire Build specialises in high-quality residential construction projects across the whole of Cheshire, including but not exclusively: Altrincham, The Heatons, Wilmslow, Knutsford, Bramhall, Nantwich, Chester, Tarporley, Didsbury & Mobberley.
We also work with clients across Greater Manchester, Staffordshire, Shropshire and North Wales.
If you are planning a project outside these areas, please contact us to discuss your requirements. We are always happy to explore how we can help.
We undertake a wide range of high-quality residential construction and improvement projects, including:
- Extensions – creating additional space while complementing the character and design of your existing home.
- Whole-home renovations – transforming and upgrading properties to meet modern living requirements.
- Loft conversions – making the most of previously unused space to create additional bedrooms, offices or living areas.
- Basement conversions – transforming existing or new basement spaces into
practical, high-quality living accommodation. - Kitchen and bathroom replacements – managing the complete removal, renovation and installation of new kitchens and bathrooms.
- Structural works and building defect rectification – investigating and addressing specialist structural issues, building defects and remedial works.
- Outdoor living spaces and landscaping – creating high-quality outdoor areas that extend your living space and complement your home.
- Listed properties and heritage projects – working sensitively on period and heritage properties, in collaboration with the appropriate specialist professionals where required.
Every project is different, so we take the time to understand your property, your requirements and your aspirations before recommending the best approach. Whether you are looking to enhance a single area of your home or undertake a complete transformation, we can help you bring your vision to life.
Choosing the right contractor is one of the most important decisions you will make. We recommend looking at a contractor’s experience, qualifications, previous projects, reputation and client reviews. For a complex residential project, it is also important to understand who will manage the project day-to-day and how the contractor will manage quality, costs, communication and the programme.
At Cheshire Build, your project will be managed by our MD David Dickinson, David has an honours degree in construction engineering and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Building as well as being a Chartered Engineer. With over thirty years of experience as a Principal Contractor, you can be sure that your project will be delivered safely on time and within budget.
We believe that clear communication, experienced project management and transparency throughout the build are essential to delivering a successful project and to ensure repeat and happy clients.
Every project is different, and the programme will depend on the size and complexity of the work, the architectural specification and whether planning permission or other approvals are required.
A typical single-storey extension will take eight weeks, while major whole-home renovations can range from approximately six to twelve months.
Before construction begins, we provide a detailed project schedule so you understand what will happen and when. We can also help you plan how you will live in your home while the work is taking place.
Design, Planning & Professional Services
Yes. We have a great deal of knowledge of what can be achieved through our own design and build, but we regularly collaborate with external architects, interior designers and structural engineers, we can also work as part of your existing professional team. We also have contacts with a range of specialist professionals who can work on heritage projects, including ecologists, conservationists and planning consultants.
Yes. For projects requiring planning permission, Building Regulations approval or specialist advice, we can work alongside the appropriate professionals to help coordinate the process and ensure the construction programme reflects the necessary approvals.
Budgeting & Contracts
We provide detailed and transparent cost breakdowns covering all aspects of your design. Our aim is to give you a clear understanding of the anticipated costs before construction begins.
For any residential project, understanding and managing costs is essential. We recommend agreeing the specification and scope as clearly as possible before work begins.
Where changes or unforeseen issues arise, we ensure their potential impact on cost and programme is clearly communicated.
Changes can sometimes arise during a construction project, whether because you decide to alter a design or material selection or because an unforeseen issue is discovered.
Any modification to the agreed design or specification is documented through a formal Change Order. This sets out the impact on both cost and programme for your approval before the additional work proceeds.
This approach ensures that you remain informed and in control of your project.
Quality & Project Management
Clear communication is a key part of our approach.
We provide weekly progress meetings, either in person or online. If you are unable to visit the property regularly, we can provide weekly site reports, progress photographs, updated schedules and financial tracking.
This means you can remain informed about progress, programme and expenditure without needing to be on site.
Quality will be managed throughout the build, on site supervision will be provided for your project by our MD David Dickinson ensuring high levels of workmanship and contractor management. All subcontractors are selected for their reliability and quality, the responsibility for the finished project always remains with Cheshire Build.
You will be invited to participate in the final snagging meeting, and of course we welcome your feedback throughout the build.
Living Through Your Build
This depends on the scale and nature of the project.
We can discuss the practical implications of living in the property during construction and help you plan around access, utilities, dust, noise, security and the different stages of the build.
For major whole-home renovations, it may be more practical to arrange alternative accommodation for some or all the construction period.
For a residential project, we understand that the property remains your home throughout the construction process. Site cleanliness and security are our priority, we will always be clear with you about access, working hours, and protection of your home.
Our relationship does not end at handover. Following completion, our team remains available for routine follow-ups and maintenance support.
We want you to feel confident not only during the construction process but after your project has been completed. It is our aim that you become a repeat customer and recommend us to your friends and family.
Starting Your Project
The first step is to talk to us about your project.
Whether you are considering an extension, renovation or larger residential transformation, we can discuss your ideas, your requirements and the scope of the work.
From there, we can advise you on the appropriate next steps and the professional input that may be required.
Contact Cheshire Build today to arrange an initial conversation about your project.