With the use of Design and Build increasing as Clients pursue cost certainty, the words Employer’s Agent are becoming more frequently used. The Employer’s Agent (EA) role is to represent the Client and their interests both pre and post contract. The role has similarities with the Project Manager and Contract Administration role however, when you appoint an EA, they represent you legally and must therefore discharge your duties correctly.
Not sure as to the benefits of having an EA? Firstly, as EA, it is our role to provide invaluable input on processes and procedures and offer advice throughout the build to mitigate risk. We understand that not all our Clients have industry experience and we are here to guide them through, providing a balanced and unbiased view. To get the most out of the role, the EA should be appointed as early as possible in the project lifecycle.
Managing the delivery of the project is the secondary reason for having an EA. This can start pre-contract during the early RIBA Stages and often includes analysing the Client’s brief, managing the tender process, novating consultants and preparing contract documents. We work to add value during this phase by advising on suitable procurement and construction methods that can assist in achieving quality and budget expectations and we will actively push and drive the project forward through the design development stages. Allowing an EA to co-ordinate these elements of the project will assist with a smooth and timely transition to site with all change control and reporting procedures in place prior to the start of construction.
Once on site, the role comes into its own and is where most of the activity for the EA role is. Activities the EA will undertake through the construction period include:
- Issuing instructions
- Co-ordination the review of information
- Chairing and minuting monthly meetings
- Handling change control
- Validating and certifying payments
- Arranging handover
- Certifying practical completion
- Handling the final account
We acted as EA & QS at Central Parade, Herne Bay and 62-64 New Dover Road, Canterbury
Our approach to the role post-contract is to develop a close collaborative relationship with all parties at the start of the scheme to generate buy-in and we establish, nurture and maintain a collaborative working relationship with the main contractor. This one-team approach provides a myriad of benefits, including assurance that financial, time and customer expectations are not only met, but exceeded.
When the Client chooses to employ us as both Employer’s Agent and Quantity Surveyor, they get the benefit of both our cost expertise alongside our project co-ordination skills which will ensure that your budgets are met and that the project is completed on time. We will be able to entirely take care of your project from to start to finish and use our extensive experience to deliver your brief and vision.
