Review the approved documents and conditions, finalise the building contract and confirm the construction programme. Agree responsibilities for inspections, consultant visits, design queries and completion records before the relevant work starts.
Check the approved scope
Ensure the builder and consultants have the correct drawings, specifications and consent conditions. Identify any requirements that must be satisfied before work or particular stages begin. Check separate approvals too. Building consent should not be treated as permission to disregard resource consent conditions, title restrictions or other applicable requirements.
Agree the construction arrangements
Confirm pricing, exclusions, selections, programme and access. Establish who manages site communications and how instructions or changes are authorised. Review procurement for materials with long lead times. The contract and consultant appointments should explain responsibilities and payment arrangements clearly before construction is underway.
Plan inspections and design support
Coordinate council inspections with the builder’s programme and identify any specialist observations or testing required. Decide whether architectural site observations or contract administration are part of the service. These activities have different purposes and should not be assumed to be included merely because the designer prepared the consent drawings.
Keep completion in view
Maintain records throughout the build, including approved changes, inspection outcomes and specialist information. Confirm what is needed for handover and any code compliance certificate application. For consented work, changes should be assessed and approved through the appropriate pathway before the affected work proceeds. Modal’s process explains construction-stage services, which are provided by agreement to suit the project.
Related questions
- How do I choose the right builder for my project?
- Does my architectural designer stay involved during construction?
- Can architectural drawings be changed during construction?
Further guidance
Regulatory guidance checked September 2026. Confirm the current requirements for your project.
