In short
We coordinate the project, procurement, programme and reporting, and run the Section 20 consultation, working with separately appointed technical specialists where required, such as a building surveyor or engineer for design, specification, contract administration and certification. The scope and professional responsibilities are agreed in writing before anything is instructed.
Who does what
| EKIN | Project coordination, the Section 20 consultation, procurement and tender process, programme, cost and progress reporting to the board, resident communication, and filing warranties and records at the end. |
|---|---|
| Technical specialists, appointed separately | Condition surveys, design and specification, contract administration, valuations and certification, and principal designer duties where required. Appointed by the board, on our recommendation, with the right professional insurance. |
| The board | Approves the budget, the appointments, the contractor and any significant change. |
Our experience in engineering and construction means we can challenge a specification, read a programme and question a variation. It makes our oversight stronger; it does not replace the professionals a project needs.
How a project runs
- Understand the problemWhat is wrong, what the lease requires and whether a surveyor or engineer is needed to investigate.
- Agree appointments and budgetWho will design and specify the works, the professional fees, and a realistic budget with contingency.
- Section 20 consultationNotices, nominations and observations run to the statutory timetable, alongside the specification.
- TenderAt least two genuinely independent contractors, a tender comparison and checks on insurance, competence and references. A written building contract rather than a quote.
- DeliveryProgress tracked against the programme, residents kept informed, and every variation agreed in writing before it is instructed.
- Close-outSnagging, completion, retention for the defects period and the final account, with warranties, guarantees and the health and safety file stored in the building's records.
Cost and programme reporting
The difference between a project that holds its budget and one that drifts is usually visible early, if someone is looking. During a project the board receives:
- A cost report: budget, contract sum, approved variations, forecast final cost and contingency remaining.
- A programme update: planned against actual progress, with the reasons for any delay.
- A risk and decision log, so directors know what they need to decide and by when.
Health and safety (CDM 2015)
The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 apply to almost all building work, and the RMC, RTM company or freeholder commissioning the works has client duties, including appointing a principal designer and principal contractor where more than one contractor is involved. We explain these duties to the board and make sure the right appointments are in place.
Fees and appointments
Major works coordination is not part of the standard management fee. Our fee, and the fees of any technical specialists, are set out in writing before the Section 20 consultation starts and included in the estimates, so leaseholders see the full cost.
Frequently asked questions
Do you coordinate major works for buildings you do not manage day to day?
We can discuss it. Any project would have its scope, our role and the technical appointments agreed in writing before it starts.
Can you take over a project that is already running?
Yes. We start by establishing the contract position, the costs to date, the programme and any disputes, and give directors a clear picture within the first few weeks.
Who chooses the contractor?
The directors (or landlord) decide, based on our tender report and the leaseholder observations from the Section 20 consultation. We recommend, you decide.
What contract is used?
Usually a JCT form such as the Minor Works or Intermediate building contract, chosen with the appointed surveyor to suit the size and risk of the job, rather than starting works on a quote alone.
Last reviewed 2026-09-23 against the sources listed. This page is general information about England and is not legal advice; the lease for your building always comes first.