Sending money to start a construction project should never be the first step. A good build begins with clarity: what is being built, who is managing it, what has been approved, and how every shilling will be accounted for.
1. Confirm the drawings are complete
Before construction begins, make sure the architectural drawings, structural drawings and service drawings are properly aligned. When drawings are incomplete, the site team starts making decisions on the ground. That is where mistakes, delays and extra costs begin.
2. Ask for a clear scope of work
A beautiful design is not enough. You need to know exactly what is included in the build. Finishes, fittings, roofing, landscaping, windows, doors and external works should be clearly stated. Without a written scope, it becomes difficult to know whether the contractor has delivered what was agreed.
3. Review the budget before the first payment
A serious budget should show more than one final figure. It should break down major cost areas such as substructure, walling, roofing, finishes, labour, professional fees and contingencies. This helps you see where the money is going before work begins.
4. Confirm approvals and site readiness
Check whether the required approvals, land documents and site access issues are in order. A project can lose weeks because of unclear boundaries, missing approvals or unresolved access to water, power and materials.
5. Know who is supervising the work
Every project needs someone responsible for quality, timelines, documentation and reporting. This should not be left to casual updates or family members visiting the site occasionally. Professional supervision protects the design, the budget and the final outcome.
Building from abroad?
JNA helps you plan, manage and monitor your project in Kenya with clarity from the first step.
Book a Consultation