GUIDE TO HOUSE CONSTRUCTION

STEP 1: Project Level and Approach

Project Level:

a. Bungalow / Single-Storey
b. Two-Storey
c. Three-Storey or More

Types of Approach:

a. Proposal-Based Approach – The type of finish, material specifications, design, and

cost of construction are determined and suggested by our team.
b. Budget-Based Approach – The client gives the budget allotment or outright of the
project and we will work within it. We will provide a customized plan and design that
will suit your budget and specifications. The type of finish, material specifications,
design, and cost of construction are determined by the budget limit.

Variables that Affect Construction Cost:

a. Type of Finish – You can choose from (1) Structural-Only, (2) Basic Finish, (3) Standard
or Conservative Finish, Semi-Elegant or Deluxe Finish, and (4) Elegant or Premium
Finish.
b. Timetable – A rushed construction would typically require more manpower than
regularly needed to meet the shortened construction timetable.
c. Lot Location – Proximity from our base of operations is a factor and also, in such case
that the location of your lot is lower than the road and would require landfill, this will
add to the cost

Requirements from the Client:

a. Copy of Lot Plan

b. Copy of Lot Title
c. Two (2) Valid IDs
d. Proof of Billing
STEP 2: Design Phase

PHASE 1: Perspective and Floor Plan

Our technical team will visit the project location. We will conceptualize and develop models
and schemes which will fit in the lot area, in accordance with the city and zoning
regulations, and most importantly, to suit your lifestyle and taste. The client, as well, may
pitch in their ideas and design pegs for the project. Prior to this, fifty percent (50%) of the
design fee should be rendered by the client.

PHASE 2: Detailed Plan and Estimate

When you are satisfied with the design and floor plan, our design team will create the
detailed plans and our cost estimator will formulate the bill of quantities (BOQ). The
materials to be used, specifications, and quantities will be stipulated in the BOQ. To proceed
to the detailed plan and estimate phase, the remaining design fee should be made by the
client.

Detailed Plan: The detailed plans (architectural, structural, electrical, and sanitary and
plumbing) will be made by our design professionals. These include the drawings,
specifications of the design, calculations, and other documentation.

Cost Estimate: We will practically formulate the bill of quantities to determine the cost of
your project. Inclusion of the Design Package:

a. 3D Renders and Elevations

b. 5 Sets of Architectural Plan
c. 5 Sets of Electrical Plan
d. 5 Sets of Plumbing and Sanitary Plan
e. 5 Sets of Structural Plan
f. Structural Analysis
g. Bill of Quantities and Material Specifications

Once we have turned over the items above to the client, the remaining design fee will be
settled.

STEP 3: Permitting Process

The client, at this point, shall decide whether to have the building permit be processed by
our team or on their own. Schedule of fees may vary based on location and/or as
enumerated in the National Building Code of the Philippines. Requirements are listed below.

Building Permit:

a. Certified True Copy of Transfer Certificate of Title (TCT)

b. Lease Contract or Deed of Sale / Consent from Land Owner
 c. Real Property Tax Declaration
d. Real Property Tax Receipt
e. Certified Location Plan
f. Accomplished Building Permit Forms (Building, Sanitary Plumbing, Electrical /
Electronics, and/or Mechanical Permit Form)
g. Certified Building Plans (Architectural, Structural, Sanitary, Electrical / Electronics.
Fire Protection Plan for 3-Storey and Above, and/or Mechanical Plans)
h. Bill of Materials
i. Specifications
j. Structural Analysis for ≥ 2-Storey Building
k. Soil Test for ≥ 3-Storey Building
l. 3” Standpipe Plan for ≥ 3-Storey Building (Sprinkler System Optional)
m. Sprinkler System and Sewerage Treatment Plan ≥ 5-Storey Building
n. Barangay Clearance
o. Tax Identification Number (TIN) of the Owner of the Building
p. Community Tax Certificate of the Owner of the Building
q. Sign Board (2 ft x 3 ft)
r. Photocopy of PTR and PRC number of all concerned engineers and architects
s. Clearance from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) if the
property is located along national highway

Electrical Inspection Permit (Pre-Construction):

a. Site Map or Sketch

b. Accomplished Permit for Temporary Service Connection Form duly signed by a
Registered Electrical Engineer

Occupancy Permit (Post-Construction):

a. Accomplished Occupancy Permit Forms (Certificate of Completion, Certificate of

Supervision, Endorsement Form)
b. Approved Building Plans and Permit
c. Accomplished Construction Logbook

STEP 3: Construction Phase

Usually, the construction will commence in a weak or less than one month after the first
payment and submission of complete requirements. Our construction package includes the
following:

a. Complete Sign and Sealed Plans

b. Processing of Building Permits
c. Procurement of Materials
d. Hiring and Supervision of Qualified Construction Team
STEP 4: The Turnover

When the occupancy permit is finally released, we will turn over the house to you.
FREQUENTLY-ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the minimum floor area for a residential project?

Answer: The minimum floor area is fifty square meters (50 sq. m) and the minimum project
costs for Design-Build at Luzon one million (Php 1,000,000).

What are the modes of payment available?

Answer: Spot Cash – This is the lump sum payment of the project cost. Up to ten percent
(10%) discount is granted if the project cost is above five million and five percent (5%) if
below five million.

Progress Billing – The project cost is paid in monthly installments. The number of months
depends on the construction period. The 30% down payment serves as the first monthly
payment. The outstanding balance will be equally divided by the remaining number of
months. There is up to five percent (5%) discount if the project cost is above five million and
three percent (3%) if below five million.

How do I get started with my house construction plans?

Answer; You will need to give the lot plan and deed of restriction as well as detailed
specifications of your desired house (e.g. number of bedrooms and bathroom, number of
levels or floor, type of finis, desired size, etc.)

You may also give sample designs that appeal to you which would be very helpful in
articulating your design preferences. This will then be customized to fit your lot plan and
requirements going thru consultation, presentation and approval from the owner.

Once the house plans and design are done a detailed cost estimate will be presented. After
approval of investment cost and signing of contract, all necessary permits such as building
permit need to be secured and finally commence actual house construction.

If you are availing thru a bank or PAG IBIG house construction loan, the complete house
plans and Bill of Materials are required. Our Engineer can be requested to be onsite when
the Bank Assessor comes to calculate the value of the lot and house construction cost.
Usually banks approve 70% of the value of the house construction cost estimate and lot.

It is also highly advisable to indicate a budget range you are willing to invest so we will be
able to advise what can fit within your budget. Otherwise you may discover that when the
cost estimates are presented, the budget you have in mind does not match or you may not
be able to afford the investment required based on your desired design and specifications.

How long does it take for a house construction to finish?

Answer: It would typically take an average of six months to finish a house construction
project. There are cases where it is possible to finish earlier or even longer depending on
the size and design of the house. There is also the option to add more manpower if a
timetable shorter than six months is desired but it may add to the cost investment.