Elevating the Construction Industry with the Use of StandardsHome  https://gnbsgy.org/category/consumer-notice/  Elevating the Construction Industry with the Use of StandardsShare 

09AugConsumer Notice, Corporate Communications, Public Education, StandardsNo Commentson Elevating the Construction Industry with the Use of StandardsThe expansion of the housing sector, coupled with investments in oil and gas, real estate, and agriculture, has propelled Guyana’s economy, triggering a spike in the demand for new infrastructure. This weekend, at the International Building Expo, manufacturers and distributors are showcasing a diverse array of modern and traditional building materials and methods to meet this rising demand. As an exhibitor, the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) is actively promoting the use of National, Regional, and International Standards to ensure that the materials meet quality requirements.To promote structurally sound buildings and related infrastructure, the GNBS has available twenty-one (21) construction-related standards. These standards address the safety, durability, and resilience of structures against natural hazards such as floods and vibrations. The Bureau continuously seeks to develop new standards or adopt those from the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ) and other standardisation bodies.Among the many standards adopted by the GNBS is the GCP 38 Code of Practice for the construction of houses. Adopted from CROSQ, this document applies to single-storey houses up to 7.62m x 12.19m in plan, built using hollow block masonry or timber-framed walls with timber-framed or concrete roofs. It provides technical information to supervise the construction of a safe and durable house and to facilitate checks during the construction phase.This standard is crucial as urbanisation, combined with natural population increases and shifting demographics, drives the necessity for expanding housing infrastructure. With more people seeking homes, effective planning and construction practices are essential to ensure that housing developments not only accommodate new residents but also address the evolving needs of existing communities and the effects of climate change.The standard covers pre-construction planning, including the necessary approvals for building, the need for a contract between the contractor and client to address the obligations of both parties, and procedures for making changes or resolving disputes. The document also addresses materials to be used for the foundation and other aspects of the house, treatments for termites, excavations, risk assessments, and more.Other notable construction-related standards include the GCP 9-3 Code of Practice for Building: Fire Safety Use and Occupancy, GYS 527-2018: Requirements for the Design and Construction of Septic Tanks and Associated Secondary Treatment and Disposal Systems, GYS 168: Bases for Design of Structures – Serviceability of Buildings Against Vibration, GCP 9-1: Code of Practice for Building – Enforcement, GYS 200: Specification for Hollow Clay Blocks, GYS 215: Specification for Load-Bearing Masonry Concrete Units, GYS 227: Specification for Ready-Mixed Concrete, and GCP 9-13: Code of Practice for Buildings – Foundations and Excavations.Manufacturers, distributors, building engineers, contractors, homeowners, and anyone involved in this important sector can purchase digital copies or physical prints of these standards from the GNBS. Interested stakeholders can also visit the Bureau’s standards portal at gnbsguy.com to review the scope of the standards.The GNBS’s participation in the International Building Expo underscores its commitment to promoting standards that ensure the safety, quality, and sustainability of construction materials and systems. As Guyana continues to develop, adherence to these standards is vital to enhancing the quality and safety of our infrastructure.


Construction Company in Guyana

What Does a Project Manager Do in Construction? Top 7 SkillsBy: Anna Sork on August 10, 2023What Does a Project Manager Do in Construction? Top 7 SkillsProject managers in construction oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring seamless operations and timely delivery through effective time, resource and team management. They are also natural leaders and can navigate the complexities of construction involving multiple stakeholders, making them an invaluable asset to the industry. This post will go over the responsibilities and skills that define the role of a project manager in construction and explore the path to becoming one.

What Is a Construction Project Manager?Key Responsibilities And Top Skills

A construction project manager plans and executes construction projects, overseeing the entire project timeline. They are responsible for various tasks, including planning, coordination, resource management and budget control. As leaders, they manage construction teams and delegate responsibilities while monitoring progress and reporting to key stakeholders. Below are the defining aspects of a project manager in construction:

Key Responsibilities: Planning and managing, resource coordination and management.Necessary Skills: Effective communication, leadership, construction knowledge, risk assessment, troubleshooting and monitoring.Education and Experience: A relevant bachelor’s degree in construction management with practical work experience.Average Salary: $115,649Key Responsibilities of a Project Manager in ConstructionAs leaders in construction, project managers oversee construction teams and establish regular communication with key stakeholders. They will have core project management skills in time and budget management, monitoring, reporting, quality control, troubleshooting and adaptability. Additionally, they will have expert knowledge of construction practices, materials, equipment and construction regulations — local, regional and national — that will inform their decision-making. Project managers in construction oversee the most critical responsibilities of a project to ensure successful outcomes. Let’s review the responsibilities below.

Project Planning and ManagementProject planning and management involves formulating comprehensive project plans, setting timelines and ensuring that all tasks progress on schedule. Project scoping for a construction project manager consists of outlining deliverables and timelines while detailing specifications in designs, materials and construction stages for what is being built, providing their teams with a clear road map of their projects.

Budget ManagementTo avoid cost overruns, project managers meticulously manage project budgets, negotiate with vendors and make informed decisions to stay within financial constraints. Project managers regularly conduct cost analyses and forecasting to identify cost-saving opportunities. They are responsible for estimating foundational work, structural elements and electric installations while also considering the inflation costs of materials.

Resource Coordination and ManagementProject managers build rapport with suppliers and vendors to effectively coordinate resources and materials. This not only optimizes workflows but also ensures minimal material waste. They will also schedule and deploy construction equipment and machinery to secure project timelines. Additionally, project managers keep track of new construction technologies to consider for future projects.

Top 7 Skills of a Project Manager in ConstructionTop Construction Manager Skills

There are multiple skills that a project manager needs to succeed in construction. This post highlights the top seven skills that make a project manager one of the best.

LeadershipProject managers inspire and motivate their teams to accomplish project goals and confidently tackle challenges. They give clear direction and delegate responsibilities effectively while fostering collaboration and celebrating project successes and milestones with their teams. Effective project manager leadership enables team members to play to their best strengths and facilitates growth in areas where team members lack, contributing to a positive work environment.

Construction KnowledgeA comprehensive understanding of construction processes, techniques and industry standards empowers project managers to make informed decisions and address technical intricacies. Project managers will understand local, regional and national building codes and regulations for legal compliance and safety. They will also have knowledge of on-site construction methods, such as traditional and modular construction.

Communication SkillsEffective communication allows construction project managers to align with stakeholders, contractors and team members through seamless collaboration. They clearly convey project objectives and expectations, facilitating a shared understanding across teams and stakeholders. Project managers actively listen to feedback to promote open dialogue and resolve issues proactively.

Risk Assessment and ManagementIdentifying potential risks and devising strategies to mitigate them enables project managers in construction to maintain project progress. They conduct risk assessments at each project stage, considering factors like safety hazards, financial uncertainties and external influences. For site-specific risks, project managers will conduct thorough site surveys to map out any geological dangers. They will also prepare emergency plans to respond to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.

Quality Control and ComplianceConstruction authorities such as the International Code Council (ICC) set guidelines known as building codes and building regulations to ensure safety and quality in construction projects. These codes and regulations are then enforced on a local and municipality, city, or count level. Project managers need expert knowledge of construction regulations and in construction materials, as it informs how they implement quality assurance processes and conduct inspections. They will also regularly review and verify the quality of construction materials by inspecting compliance certificates from suppliers and conducting material tests such as compress tests for concrete and moisture content tests for wood materials.

TroubleshootingQuick and effective troubleshooting skills empower construction project managers to address challenges promptly, keeping projects on track. When unexpected issues arise, they analyze the situation, identify the root cause and implement suitable solutions. In material shortages, project managers will work with suppliers and subcontractors to source alternative solutions to keep a project within its timeline. In addressing on-site hazardous risks, they will implement safety training measures and guidelines for their teams.

Monitoring and ReportingRegularly monitoring project progress and providing regular updates to stakeholders facilitates informed decision-making and promotes transparency. Project managers use project management tools and reports to track key performance indicators, budget allocations and timelines. By analyzing project data, they can proactively address deviations, communicate progress effectively and keep stakeholders informed throughout construction. Progress tracking for a project manager involves generating reports that detail the ongoing progress for foundational work, framing, installations and more. They will also communicate milestones to stakeholders, such as when a roof is completed or the final project handover to a client.Write Here...


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Learn moreThe BestConstruction Company  Georgetown GuyanaHas To OfferOur contractors are specialists, with years of experience in the construction industry. When you choose the Build Pro Construction Company, you choose a brand that builds to last.

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Fully Custom Construction Solutions in Georgetown, Linden, Berbice, Essequibo and all around Guyana…Whether you’re in the streets of Georgetown, the communities of Linden, the ancient county of Berbice, Essequibo, or anywhere across this beautiful country, we are here to bring your vision to life with our fully custom construction solutions.

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100% Guyanese owned and Operated.Satisfaction GuaranteedOur first priority is customer satisfaction. We always go above and beyond to assure that our work meets and exceeds your expectations.

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Our expertise spans from office buildings to retail complexes in key regions like Berbice and Demerara. We prioritize sustainable construction methods, delivering spaces that not only meet but exceed commercial standards.

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1. Acquiring a Land

 

Phase 1 provides a guide for you to choose between applying for a plot of land through the Central Housing & Planning Authority or from a private individual/firm.

There are two ways an individual may acquire land for residential homebuilding, these are through:

 
 
 

Central Housing & Planning Authority

Acquiring a Land
 
 
Central Housing & Planning Authority

see website

The Central Housing and Planning Authority, under the purview of the Ministry of Housing & Water, is responsible for the development of housing schemes and granting security of tenure, (Transports and Certificates of Title to Land).

You will be guided below on how to acquire a land through the Central Housing & Planning Authority.

 
 

Requirements

The criteria for allocation of a house lot through the Central Housing & Planning Authority are:

  1. Applicant must not be a property owner,
  2. Applicant must attain the age of 21 yrs. and is a resident of Guyana for at least six months.
  3. An applicant can either be single, married, or in a common-law relationship.
 
 
 

Steps

 

1. Applying for a House Lot

 

 

Applicants are required to do the following to apply for house lots:

  1. Purchase an application form from either the:
    1. Central Housing & Planning Authority
    2. The Regional Housing Offices
    3. The Regional Democratic Council in the Regions of 1,7 & 8

By completing the online application form using the following link: https://chpa.gov.gy/application-for-land-property/

  1. Applications are to be completed and submitted to the Head Office or the Regional Housing Officers along with the relevant documentation to conduct an interview or uploaded online.
  2. Applications in Regions 1, 7 & 8 are to be completed and submitted to the Head Office or the Regional Democratic Council. The CHPA will acknowledge receipt of these applications by sending ‘Acknowledgement Letters’ to the applicants.

If you have not received an Acknowledgement Letter, you are required to make contact with the Interview Section for a copy of this letter.

 

2. Interview for a House Lot

 

 

Once an application has been submitted (Regions 1, 7 & 8), applicants will be invited to attend an interview to assess whether they would qualify for a low, very low, or middle-income house lot.

For Regions 2,3,4,5,6,9 & 10, applicants are interviewed once they submit their application forms and relevant documentation.

 

Requirements for Interview

Applicants are required to produce these documents at the time of the interview:

  1. The acknowledgement letter
  2. The notice for the interviewNB: The above mentioned letters are applicable for applicants in Regions 1, 7 & 8.
  3. Children’s birth certificates
  4. Job letters/Payslip/Affidavit of Income
  5. Rent receipts
  6. Marriage certificate, Deed Polls are also required, if applicable.
  7. Identification cards/Passports
  8. Tax Payer ID
 
 
 

Additional Information

For more information on acquiring a land, kindly visit/contact the Central Housing & Planning Authority.

Address: 41 Brickdam & United Nations Place Georgetown, GuyanaTelephone Number: +592 223-6536Facebook: Central Housing & Planning Authority | FacebookEmail: info@chpa.gov.gy

 
 
 
 
 

Private Purchase

Acquiring a Land
 
 

Acquiring land through private purchase provides you with more flexibility as it relates to the location of the land (rural or urban), the size, and other key characteristics of the land. However, this may be more costly.

 
 

Requirements

There are little to no requirements when purchasing a land through private purchase.

In fact, having the required finance to make the purchase is what is needed to initiate the process.

If you wish to obtain finance through a financial institution, please refer to Phase 5.

 
 
 

Steps

There are a few steps that should be followed to ensure that you are not scammed.

 

1. Verify location, measurement and position of land

 

  1. Request a copy of the boundary plan to ensure it corresponds with what was advertised.
  2. Visit the site with a sworn land surveyor to verify the location, measurements, and position of the land.

 

2. Verify authenticity of land held by Transport/Lease and Title

 

If you’re interested in purchasing a private property or a plot of land, the vendor’s ownership and authenticity should be verified by following the below steps:

  1. Talk with the land/property owner and request a copy of the transport/ title and take it into the Guyana Deeds Registry or the Land Registry to verify its authenticity. It would be useful to obtain a certified copy.
  2. Request from the Guyana Deeds Registry/Land Registry, a verification that the property belongs to the proposed seller and is free of all encumbrances.
  3. If you do not have a copy of the transport/title/lease you can still request this information if you know the lot/parcel number.

Once you have verified the legal owner of the land/property, you can now proceed to step 3.

 

3. Conveyance

 

  1. Agreement of sale is prepared. You may need the assistance of a lawyer.
  2. Read the document thoroughly to ensure you are in agreement with all the clauses before signing.
  3. It is usual for a deposit to be paid on signing of the Agreement of Sale and purchase, and for the balance to be paid upon completion that is upon conveyance of transport, transfer of title or lease to the purchaser.

 

4. Registering Title, Lease or Transport

 

  1. The process of moving the legal ownership of property or land from one person to another is facilitated by the following agencies in Guyana:
    1. Guyana Deeds Registry – Georgetown, Essequibo & Berbice.
    2. Land Registry – Georgetown, Essequibo & Berbice.
  2. If the property or land is a transported/leased land the Deeds Registry will, after filing of the Conveyance/Transfer documents and payment of the processing fees place an advertisement in the official gazette and allow for a period of 14 days to elapse during which period anyone with an interest in the land is given an opportunity to oppose its sale/transfer. If there is no opposition, the relevant document/s would be transferred to the new owner.
 
Deeds Registry

see website

Guyana Deeds Registry is responsible for administering the laws enacted by Parliament affecting land, whether by way of transport, leases, mortgages or any other alienation thereof, powers of attorney, contracts and other deeds.

 
Land Registry

see website

Land Registry has purview by the Laws of Guyana over Certificates of Titles to Land.

 

Additional Information

What to do after you have purchased a land?

Surveying TipAccording to the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC), a survey is done to define a portion of land for the purpose of issuing title and to rectify or clarify boundary disputes.A survey may be done for various reasons. In residential homebuilding, a survey is done to show the extent, value and ownership of land. This type of survey is known as a Cadastral Survey.

Factors to consider for a Cadastral Survey

  • Location of the land (Rural vs Urban)
  • Size of land
  • Cost of the land

List of Registered Land SurveyorsTo access a list of registered land surveyors, click on the link below.https://glsc.gov.gy/registered-land-surveyors/

.


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2. Planning with your Architect

 

A building plan is a graphical representation of what a building will look like after construction.

Architects create designs for new construction projects, alterations, and redevelopments and contribute a vital part of the construction process. They use their specialist construction knowledge and high-level drawing skills to design buildings that are functional, safe, sustainable, economical and aesthetically pleasing.

 
 
 
 
 

IMPORTANT NOTE!

If you will be using a loan to finance your building project, it is important to schedule a meeting with a loan officer from the financial institution of your choice BEFORE consulting with your Architect. This is to have an idea of the amount you will be eligible to borrow and likewise the corresponding building size. This will save you TIME and MONEY in the long run. 

 

Planning Considerations

When planning to build your house, there are some important aspects that should be considered. These include:

Land Size

Functionality

optimal use of space

NEEDS

Understand your needs – Build based on your needs

SPACE

Comfortable in occupying space, must have certain dimensions.

Building Regulations

Consult with the local Authority to determine the required building regulations.

 
 

Importance of engaging a Qualified Architect

Stay Involved

Architects stay involved throughout the construction process, adapting their plans according to budget constraints, environmental factors or client needs which equates to less stress for the client and more peace of mind.

Guarantee

Guarantee that the design will be economical, functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Replica

Replica of desired design. When an architect is not involved, the design may be subject to various changes thus incurring additional cost.

Safeguards

Safeguards against poor estimation of construction cost. Architects can also save you money by picking up on potential issues before they become costly errors.

Positioning

An architect can identify how to situate your project on the available land, in order to take advantage of all possible benefits including optimising views, aspect, sunlight, shade, natural cross-flow ventilation and efficient energy usage.

 
 

What is expected from an Architect?

 

 

1. Consultation to understand your needs

 

 

Before drafting plans, an architect is required to meet with the client several times to discuss requirements for their project.

Items discussed will include:

  • The overall objective.
  • The client’s requirements and desires.
  • The site and landscape.
  • Timescales.
  • Budget.

 

2. Site Appraisal

 

 

Next, the architect should carry out a site appraisal and analysis to assess the proposal context, its users and advise on the practicality of the project. 

The Architect must follow building codes, fire regulations, zoning laws and city ordinances when creating plans.

 

The final construction plan is then created by the architect and will be used by the contractor as a step-by-step guide on the details of the building. This includes the overall design, structural systems, flow, plumbing, electrical and ventilation.

Based on the final plan, the following sheets should be presented by the Architect. If they are not presented, ask about these aspects and whether they were catered to in the plan.

  • Ground Floor Plan
  • First Floor Plan
  • Elevation Plans – (North, South, West and East)
  • Foundation Plan
  • Ground Floor Beam Plan
  • First Floor Framing
  • Perimeter Beam
  • Roof Framing 
  • Cross Section
  • Details – Beams/Roof
  • Stairs
  • Windows & Door Schedule 
  • Ceiling Plans
  • First Floor Reflective Ceiling Plan
  • Site Plan
  • Fence
  • Kitchen Plan/Kitchen Elevation

For approval by statutory bodies such as Mayor & City Council or NDCs, only the site and elevation plans are required.


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3. Approval of plan

Now that your plan has been drawn, it is time to get it APPROVED.

 
 
 

Why is approval necessary?

Getting your plan approved is necessary before embarking on any construction project. It is also a prerequisite for accessing financing options. Additionally, an approved building plan is a guide for the contractor to follow when constructing your home. It is also necessary to estimate your project’s cost. Plans are a necessary guide throughout the building process.There are two main statutory bodies that are involved in the approval process. They are:

 
 
 

Mayor & City/ Town Councils

 
 
Mayor & City/ Town Councils

see website

The Mayor and City/ Town Councils are responsible for approving plans for persons building in the Capital city of Georgetown and the nine(9) townships which are Mabaruma, Anna Regina, Corriverton, New Amsterdam, Rosehall, Bartica, Mahdia,Lethem and Linden.

 
 
 

Requirements

In order to initiate the building application process, the following documents and steps are required for the various Municipalities.

Mabaruma

  1. Applicant purchases Building Application form from the Town Council.
  2. The application is filled out by the applicant and returned to the Town Council Office along with the relevant documents such as Building Plans and Ownership of Land Document. A processing fee will be paid at this submission.
  3. The Town Clerk will then examine the application along with the documents submitted.
  4. A visit will be made to the site along with the Environmental Officer.
  5. The application and documents submitted will be presented to the council at it’s monthly statutory meeting for approval.
  6. If approved, the Town Clerk will then inform the applicant via letter.
  7. N.B. The Mayor and Town Council only gives approval for residential building applications. All commercial building applications are  forwarded to the Central Board of Health for approval.

Georgetown

  1. Properly filled out Building Application Form- this could be uplifted from the City Engineer’s Building or from the town clerk’s office.
  2. Certified copy of Ownership Documents
    1. Transport
    2. Title
    3. Lease
    4. Power of Attorney (P.O.A.—updated)– this document allows another person to act in your absence to purchase, sell, finance or refinance a home.
    5. Agreement of sales & Document (s) of Authorization– these documents protect the owner against his home being sold to someone else.
  3. Three (3) copies of Building Plans showing:
    1. All plan views—including site plan (Please note that building plan should fit on one paper since multiple sheets would not be accepted)
    2. At least two elevations
  4. Copy of Survey plan for the plot of land where the works will be executed (showing main and access routes)
  5. Three (3) copies of Structural Building Plans showing:
    1. Foundation details —including site plan
    2. Column and Beam layout with details
    3. At least two sectional elevations
  6. Copy of Rates & Taxes receipt verifying payment for the current year
  7. Processing FeeThis is determined upon the submission of the application.

Corriverton

  1. Applicant purchases Building Application form from the Town Council Office.
  2. The application is filled out by the applicant and returned to the Town Council Office along with the relevant documents
  3. The Town Clerk will then examine the application along with the documents submitted.
  4. A visit will be made to the site along with the Local Sanitary Authority.
  5. A further visit and inspection of the site is made by the Public Health Inspector.
  6. The applicant will then be informed whether his application has been approved or not.
  7. N.B. The Council only approves residential construction at a fee. Commercial properties are recommended by the council and approved by the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CHPA).

Rosehall 

  1. Site Inspection- ensure lit is free from overgrowth.
  2. Photocopy of Land Documents- Transport, Lease and Title.
  3. Ensure rates and taxes are being paid.
  4. Preparation of building plans- four(4) copies with application form and processing fees fully paid.
  5. Inspection by Public Health Inspector to ensure there is no building breach.
  6. Present application at the statutory meeting for approval or recommendation to the Central Housing & Planning Authority (CHPA) if it is for commercial activity.
  7. Once approval is granted, construction can begin. Monitoring and site visits will be done during the construction phase to ensure buildings are built according to approved plan.

Bartica

  1. Three (3) copies of your building plan.
  2. One(1) pair of the building application form purchased at the town council’s office.
  3. Copy of transport, title or lease for the land you want to build on.
  4. If the transport, title or lease is not in your name, you would have to acquire a permission letter from the property owner.
  5. Take all the documents over to the sanitary department of the hospital. They will fill the information onto the form, approve it and then you would have to present it to the town council. N.B. this process takes approximately one(1) month for the person to get approval and the building application is valid for one (1) year.
  6. After approval, you are required to give the town council seven (7) days notice before you commence construction.

Mahdia

  1. A filled building application form.
  2. A copy of the building plan depicting the following:

a.Floor Plan

b.Site Plan

c.Two (2) elevations plan (front and side)

  1. Document  of ownership of land.
  2. If the developer is not the owner of the land, then a copy of the following is required along with the document of ownership from the owner 

a.Letter of Permission

b.Tenancy of Agreement

  1. Copy of identification card
  2. Copy of Tin Certification

Lethem

  1. Building application form purchased from the Lethem Town Council.
  2. Three(3) copies of building plans depicting the following:

a. Site plan at 1/16″=1′-0″

b. 2 elevations at 1/8″=1′-0″ scale

c. Floor Plan at 1/8″=1′-0″ scale

  1. Plan must clearly state type of development desired and all measurements must be shown.
  2. Copy of document of ownership (Transport, title, lease, etc.).  If the developer is not the owner of the land , then a notarized copy of the following is required along with the copy of the document of ownership of the owner.

a. Tenancy Agreement; or

b. Letter of Permission

  1. Copy of Tin certificate
  2. Copy of identification or passport
  3. Copy of survey plan of lot and processing fee.
  4. All plans must be clearly drawn.
  5. plans must allow enough space for placement of official stamp without covering information on plan.
  6. Once all documentation have been provided, residential plans are processed and approved by the mayor and town council of Lethem.

Linden

  1. Building application form from the Linden Mayor & Town Council.
  2. Three(3) copies of building plans, depicting the following:

a.Site plan at 1/16″=1′-0″

b.Two (2) elevations at 1/8″=1′-0″ scale

c.Floor Plan at 1/8″=1′-0″ scale

  1. Floor plans must show type of development desired and all measurements must be shown. 
  2. Copy of document of ownership (Transport, Title, Lease, etc).

N.B.       

  1. All plans must be properly drawn.
  2. Plans must be allow enough space for placement of official stamp without covering up any information on the plan.
  3. No construction should commence before approval of building plans from council.
  4. Applicant (where applicable) must pay all outstanding rates & taxes.
  5. In the absence of the document of ownership, a copy of the receipt (fully paid) will be accepted from the Central Housing & Planning Authority.
 

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Building Application process (Residential)

 

1. Mayor & City Council

 

 

Applications are taken to this Agency and are processed between two departments i.e. the Public Health Department and the Building Inspectorate section of the City Engineer’s Department. For applications that are submitted for approval outside of the sewerage areas and are for just residential purposes only, the expected processing time is twenty-one (21) days. This period will provide for the applications to be properly checked and site inspected by the respective officers assigned to the area then forwarded for approval.

 

2. Applications forwarded to GWI

 

For those applications that fall within the sewerage areas listed, the processing time will be a bit longer since those applications will have to be sent to the Guyana Water Inc. The sewerage areas are within:Independence Boulevard to Seawall Road and Water Street to Vlissengen RoadTucville.The timeframe will vary in this case since the applicant will have to ensure that the necessary processing fees are paid and that the utility bill(s) are in order or cleared at this agency before their application is processed and returned to the Mayor & City Council.

 
 
 

Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC)

 

Persons building outside of Georgetown are required to visit their Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) for their plan to be approved.

 
 
 

REQUIREMENTS

In order to initiate the building application process, the following documents are required. 

  • Three (3) Copies of the Building plan showing site and elevation plans.(N.B. House plans must be on ONE (1) single sheet of paper showing site, ground floor and elevations).
  • One Copy of transport, title lease or permission letter (permission ought to be obtained from the proprietor and signed by Commissioner of Oaths to affidavits or justice of the peace. Also, if there is more than one name on the transport or title, permission ought to be sought and notarized by the Commissioner of Oaths to affidavits or justice of the peace.
  • One building application form purchased from the NDC responsible for your area filled out accordingly.
  • One copy of the applicant’s National Identification Card showing Bio-Data Information.
  • The processing fee must be paid to the N.D.C.
 
 
 
 

Procedure for Approval of plan

 

1. Submit Plans

 

 

All plans must be submitted at least three (3) weeks before the Council’s statutory meeting.For more information relating to your specific NDC, please click on the link below.Neighbourhood Democratic Councils | Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development

 

2. Approval

 

 

All Residential buildings not more than 2 storeys will be approved by the Council. 3 storey buildings are forwarded to the CHPA for approval.

 
 

What happens after your plan has been approved?

  • Once your plan has been approved by the council, you will be asked to return to your NDC to uplift your approved plan
  • Upon approval, you will be required to sign all three (3) copies of your approved building plan. After which, a copy will be retained by the NDC to put on file and the remaining two (2) will be given to you.
  • After this, residential home building can commence.
 
 

What happens if your plan is not approved?

  • If your plan is not approved by the council, the statutory officer in charge would identify the errors/omissions on the plan and send it to the council and then the plan will be given to the residential home builder informing him/her of what needs to be corrected. In addition, if any outstanding documents are omitted, those would also be listed on the plan to be submitted.
  • After the errors have been corrected and the relevant supporting documents submitted then the plan can be re-submitted for approval by the council.
  • The council will then review and approve the re-submitted plan and then residential home building can commence.
 


Write H

4. Selecting a Contractor

Now that you have gotten your plan approved, it’s time to move on to the next step in reaching your goal of homeownership which is selecting a Contractor.

Finding a good contractor is important because a construction project gone wrong can cost you. Not only pecuniary loss but it can be a threat to your health and safety.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Tips before you select a contractor

  • A good advertisement isn’t proof a contractor does quality work.
  • Find out for yourself about previous work done by a contractor by checking with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who’ve built or had improvement work done.
  • Check out a contractor’s reputation using social media and ask for a police clearance.
  • Get written estimates from several firms or other contractors, keeping in mind the lowest bidder may not be the best choice.
 
 
 

Finding a Contractor

 
 

Types of Contractors

 

Depending on how big or complex a project is, you might hire a:

  • General contractor, who manages all aspects of a project, including hiring and supervising subcontractors and scheduling inspections.
  • Specialty contractor, who installs particular products like cabinets and bathroom fixtures.
  • Architect, who designs homes, additions, and major renovations; especially ones involving structural changes.
  • Designer or Design/Build contractor, who provides both services of building and designing your home.
 
 
 

Guidance to find a contractor

 

1. Look for signs of a disreputable contractor

 

 

  • How can you tell if a contractor might not be reputable? You may not want to do business with someone who:
    • Just happens to have materials left over from a previous job.
    • Pressures you for an immediate decision.
    • Only accepts cash, asks you to pay everything up-front, or suggests you borrow money from a lender the contractor knows.
    • Doesn’t provide you with important or working contact information

 

2. Do Your Research to gather evidence of previous work

 

  • Check with friends, neighbours, or co-workers who have used a contractor. If you can, take a look at the work done and ask about their experience.
  • Check the firm’s/ Contractor’s social media pages and websiteCheck to see if persons who have hired contractors have similar experiences either good or bad. You also can check out a contractor’s reputation online by searching for the person’s or company’s name to see what kind of reviews they receive.
  • Find out how long they’ve been in businessLook for an established company or contractor whose record and reputation you can check out.

 

3. Before You Hire a Contractor, you should acquire various estimates

 

Once you’ve narrowed your options, get written estimates from several individual contractors or the contractor’s construction firm. Don’t automatically choose the lowest bidder. Ask for an explanation to see if there’s a reason for the difference in price.

Ask these Questions:

  1. How many projects like mine have you completed?Ask for a list so you can see how familiar the contractor is with your type of project and if possible, check out the projects yourself.
  2. Will my project require a permit, especially if I’m doing changes to my property?In Guyana, you are required to have permits for building projects, even for simple jobs like adding a veranda. A competent contractor will get all the necessary permits before starting work on your project. You may want to choose a contractor familiar with the permitting process in rural or urban areas.
  3. May I have a list of references?A contractor should be able to give you the names, addresses, and phone numbers of at least three clients with projects like yours. Ask each client how long ago the project was and whether it was completed on time. Was the client satisfied? Were there any unexpected costs? Did workers show up on time and clean up after finishing the job? You also could tell the contractor that you’d like to visit jobs in progress.
  4. What types of insurance do you carry?Contractors are recommended to have the following coverage:

 

  1. personal liability
  2. worker’s compensation
  3. property damage coverage – Ask for copies of insurance certificates, and make sure they’re current, or you could be held liable for any injuries and damages that occur during the project. N.B. Though this is important, for residential homebuilding in Guyana most small contractors may have to pass on the policy cost to the homebuilder. Sharing the policy expense between the client and the contractor might be a good option here.
  4. Will you be using specialist subcontractors on this project?Here you may have specialist sub-contractors e.g.:

 

  1. HVAC (Heating, ventilation and air condition)
  2. Landscaping
  3. Lift installation
  4. Electrical installationN.B. Usually, you want to keep it simple in a simple Residential home building contract by having only one person to deal with and one contract.
 

After you hire a Contractor, ALWAYS keep records

Get a Written Contract

Ask for one. It should be clear and concise and include the “who, what, where, when, and cost of your project”. Before you sign a contract, make sure it includes:

  • The contractor’s name, address and phone number.
  • An estimated start and completion date.
  • The payment schedule for the contractor, specialty subcontractors and suppliers.
  • How change orders are handled. A change order is a written authorization to the contractor to make a change or addition to the work described in the original contract and could affect the project’s cost and schedule.
  • A retention fee –. e.g. A Retention fee of 5% to 10% should be deducted from each payment due to the contractor. On practical completion of half or 50% of the project, the retained amount should be released. The client and the Architect or Construction technician/ Engineering technician should do a walk-through with the contractor. Any defects found should be listed and agreed upon with the contractor. The contractor should remedy these defects within a period of time agreed upon by both parties. After the defects have been remedied to the satisfaction of all, the last half of the retention fee should be released.
  • A detailed list of all materials including each product’s colour, model, size, and brand. If some materials will be chosen later, the contract should say who’s responsible for choosing each item and how much money is budgeted for it (this is also known as the “allowance”).
  • Information about warranties covering materials and workmanship, with names and addresses of who is honouring them; the contractor, distributor, or manufacturer. The length of the warranty period and any limitations also should be spelled out.
  • What the contractor will and won’t do. For example, is site clean-up and trash hauling included in the price? Ask for a “broom clause” that makes the contractor responsible for all clean-up work, including spills and stains.
  • Any promises made during conversations or calls. Remember, if they don’t remember, you may be out of luck or charged extra.
 
 

Good Idea

Remember, to keep all paperwork related to your project in one place. This includes:

  • Copies of the contract
  • Change orders
  • Any correspondence with your home improvement professionals
  • A record of all payments. You will need receipts for recourse in the event something goes wrong.
  • Keep a log or journal of all phone calls, conversations, and activities. You also might want to take photographs as the job progresses. These records are especially important if you have problems with your project during or after construction.
 
 
 

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5. Obtaining Finance

 

You’re on to financing your project. This phase will provide you with useful information on how to apply for a mortgage.

 
 
 
  • Identification card/Passport along with passport size photo.
  • New Drivers Licence and/or TIN Certificate
  • Proof of address (utility bill, rental receipt, etc.)
  • Employment letter and (3) consecutive months’ payslips
  • Proof of income if self-employed
  • Copy of Transport/Title/Lease Document or Letter of Intent/Agreement of Sale and Purchase if the property is being purchased
  • Copy of recent Rates and Taxes/Lease rental receipt
  • Estimates of construction cost accompanied by an approved plan
  • Equity contribution
  • Certificate of Valuation for the property being purchased from a Government Valuation Officer (Officers are located at the Government Valuation Office, Camp Street, G/Town)
  •  
    • GOVERNMENT VALUATION
    • As it relates to commercial banks, all are mandated to use a Government Valuation officer. These officers can be obtained from the Government Valuation Office of the Ministry of Finance. Financial Institutions, on the other hand, are not mandated to use Government Valuation Officers. Rather, they have their own arrangements. For example in Guyana, one of the main financial institutions used to obtain financial assistance when building a home is the New Building Society (NBS).

For persons who have acquired house lots, if finance is being obtained through a commercial Bank, a valuation of the land and proposed structure is required.

  • It is the job of the Valuation officer to prepare a report outlining the current market value of the land and property and together, inform the commercial bank what it will be exposed to if it decides to lend or how much it can lend.
  • The valuation cost of a plot of land may vary depending on the size of the land and the rate charged by the officer conducting the valuation.

Determinants/Criteria for Valuation of lands

Size of the land

Larger the size, the higher the value and vice versa.

Area of the Land/Location

A land in one area may be worth more than a land in another area.

Site Location

Whether it is a corner lot, middle lot or a lot with extra space. Also, whether it is located near to the main road or on the main road is significant as well.

A valuation of land should not take more than 10 days.

 

Once you have met these requirements and will be financing your building project with a loan, here is a list of banks and institutions providing these financing services

 
Republic Bank Limited

see website

 
Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry

see website

 
Demerara Bank Limited

see website

 
Citizen’s Bank Guyana Limited

see website

 
Scotia Bank Limited

see website

 
New Building Society

see website

 
 
 

Mortgaging a transported, Leased or Titled land/ Property

  1. After initial paperwork with the bank, you will be advised to have the mortgage deed done by a lawyer (Submitted to the bank and Land Registry / Deeds Registry)
  2. When the mortgage is repaid you should ensure that a cancellation of the mortgage is done at the Land Registry / Deeds registry so that the documentation shows that the property is yours.
 
 
 

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