Contract Administration

Turning drawings into a finished building is a complex process. At Armstrong Simmonds Architects, our Contract Administration and Site Visit services ensure your project is delivered as intended, on time and to the highest standard.

From our architect studio in Battersea, we provide contractual administration and site visit services across London. Acting on your behalf, we monitor works on site, maintain quality control during construction, and coordinate between contractors and consultants.

On Site

Why Contract Administration Services Are Important for Your Project

Even the most thoughtfully designed project can face unexpected challenges during the construction phase, with risks of delays, cost overruns or compromised quality being the most common. Appointing an architect can help to eliminate or mitigate these on site risks and administer the contract where they occur.

Our contract administration services provide:

A clear contractual structure between you and the builder
Regular site inspections by an experienced architect
Consistent monitoring of progress and workmanship
Advice and decision-making support throughout the build
Confidence that the final result aligns with your approved plans

Key Advantages of Our Contract Administration and Site Visit Services

We offer tailored on-site services as part of our wider architectural services, supporting projects from initial concept through to completion. Our role during construction typically includes:

Site Visit Architect Reports – We carry out routine site visits and inspections to assess progress and check that work complies with the design and technical drawings.

Architectural Site Services – We respond to contractor queries, approve samples, and advise on details when decisions are required on site.

Contract Administration Architect Role – We manage the formalities of the contract: issuing instructions, certifying payments, and reviewing variations.

Client Support and Communication – We help you manage the builder, answer technical questions, and ensure you remain informed at every stage.

Quality Control During Construction – We monitor workmanship and highlight issues that arise as early as possible and spot when design drift may start to occur.

Whether it’s a rear extension or a full renovation, we act as your advocate – ensuring every detail is delivered to the standard expected.

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Our Process for Contract Administration Services

Our Contract Administration services follow a structured yet flexible approach:

Contract Setup and Kick-off

We assist in appointing your contractor using a standard building contract, such as JCT Minor Works, clearly outlining roles, responsibilities, timelines, and payment terms.

On-Site Architectural Services

Once construction begins, we carry out regular inspections, document progress, and communicate any required actions. We act as your architect on site, ensuring that critical junctions and materials are reviewed and approved at the right time.

Monitoring and Issue Resolution

Should any discrepancies or unforeseen issues arise, we provide immediate support – coordinating with the builder and other consultants to find practical, design-led solutions.

Certification and Project Close-Out

We manage valuations and certify payments based on progress. At completion, we lead the snagging process and guide the project through to practical completion and final handover.

Customer
reviews

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Michael van Ree

John and his team have been brilliant to work with for our full house renovation and extension in SW London. Our house is quite unique and that combined with it being in a conservation area we knew it wouldn't be a straight forward planning process - but Armstrong Simmonds did a fantastic job and helped us navigate us through every step. We couldn't be happier with the detailed design and outcome.

Linda Roberts

Architects Armstrong Simmonds were appointed by us to turn our concept of open plan living into reality, which they did with extraordinary vision and design flair. The AS team listened carefully to our ideas and transformed an ordinary detached house into a breathtakingly beautiful home that offered light, space and a lifestyle that exactly reflected our needs and requirements. AS worked closely with us and our builder, and their focus to detail in the design and build was impressive. This young architectural practice in our opinion, offers something more. They listen, understand and are unique in their ability to conceptualise, plan and build with imagination, whilst considering aesthetics and functionality. Linda and Allan Roberts ...>>

Rowena Carter

I cannot recommend Armstrong and Simmonds architects highly enough. Within minutes of John meeting us at our home he had understood our brief and was sharing a vision that ticked all of our boxes.We had met with other architects who did not inspire us and told us the shape we wanted for our extension would not be possible. John had excellent knowledge of the local planning rules, researched planning submissions in the immediate area and was confident that he would get our application through - and he did! During the detailed design process John and his team listened closely to how we wanted to use the space. He came up with many design features and solutions to save costs and keep our dream design within our budget. Throughout the process they delivered an innovative plan that felt personal to us in a professional and timely manner. We found John and his team to be responsive, helpful and caring. They went above and beyond to get our project over the line and I have no hesitation in recommending the firm to anyone looking at home extension/improvement. We would not look anywhere else for any future builds! ...>>

Rebecca Wheelhouse

We had a fantastic experience with John and the team at Armstrong Simmonds. We have a beautiful home and would happily use them for our next project.... hopefully even bigger next time! Flawless from beginning to end, I thoroughly recommend them.

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Frequently asked questions

What does contract administration involve?

It’s the formal role of managing the building contract between you and the builder. This includes monitoring construction, handling instructions, certifying payments, and supporting site decisions.

How often will you visit my site?

This depends on the scope and complexity of the project. For most projects, we recommend fortnightly visits, but we also attend key milestones or review specific stages as needed.

Can you help if I have issues with my builder?

Yes. We act as a third-party professional to help manage disputes, assess completed work, and advise on how to move forward in accordance with the contract and design documents.