ABSTRACT
One of the earliest tasks on a construction project is the measurement and investigation of the site. A firm of architects may offer clients a complete design package because they are able to sub-contract the engineering design to engineers or specialist aspects of the design to specialist sub-contractors. Planning or other legal restrictions may limit the land available for construction. Regulation, both in the form of building regulation and environmental regulation is an increasingly important aspect of modern construction projects. Construction professionals may be asked to provide estimates at any stage of a contract, but as a generality the most important estimates are those provided at the outset. The architect, engineer or project manager taking lead responsibility for the project will advise the client as to the course of the tender process, including as to the choice of contract and when and how this is to be agreed.
