Get It Right with Undercover Architect

How to Manage Project Costs Without the PAC Process

Jun 23, 2025
Discover effective strategies for managing project costs without the PAC Process. Learn how to leverage quantity surveyors for accurate budgeting and understand the importance of designer-builder relationships for better cost feedback. Explore the benefits of Early Contractor Involvement and negotiate tendering for value management. Amelia addresses common homeowner fears about early builder engagement and explains how to achieve reliable costing and a seamless construction process. Gain insights to minimize risks and avoid heartbreak in your building project.
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INSIGHT

Benefits Of Early Builder Involvement

  • Early builder involvement (PAC) lets you align design with budget and buildability as the design develops.
  • This prevents falling in love with a design you can't afford when tender prices arrive.
ADVICE

Get Cost Feedback During Design

  • Work with a designer who gives specific cost feedback during design or uses industry costing software like ProCalc.
  • If needed, commission a quantity surveyor or building estimator to produce a cost report early.
ADVICE

Document Thoroughly Before Tender

  • Prepare comprehensive documentation and a selections schedule before competitive tender to limit pricing assumptions.
  • Invest in detailed drawings for cost-intensive areas to reduce variance between builder quotes.
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