Stage-by-stage inspections for self-build mortgage lenders — with formal certificates issued at each key milestone.
Most self-build mortgages release funds in stages — tied to specific construction milestones being reached and independently certified. If inspections aren't arranged in advance, drawdowns can stall at critical points, disrupting your build programme and cashflow.
D. Heggarty Surveying provides stage inspection visits and issues formal Architect's Certificates at each agreed milestone. These are recognised documents, accepted by Ecology Building Society and other specialist self-build lenders.
As a Member of the Chartered Institute of Building (MCIOB), Declan is a qualified professional consultant competent to carry out this role — typically referred to in lender documentation as the Professional Consultant.
Your lender needs to approve the Professional Consultant before construction begins. Appointing Declan at the outset means inspection visits can be scheduled into your build programme — avoiding delays when funds are needed.
Architect's Certificates issued by D. Heggarty Surveying have been accepted by Ecology Building Society and other self-build mortgage providers. We recommend confirming acceptance with your lender at instruction stage.
The number and timing of inspection stages is agreed with your lender at the outset. The stages below are typical for a NI new dwelling — exact milestones may vary by lender and project type.
Strip or raft foundations excavated, inspected and concrete poured. Drainage positions confirmed.
Walls built to DPC level; radon/gas membranes installed; ground floor construction underway.
External and internal masonry completed to wall plate; lintels and block-and-beam floors in place.
Roof timbers erected and felted; chimneys and gable ends complete; structure watertight.
Windows and external doors fitted; roof covering and flashings complete; first fix services underway.
Works substantially complete; final certificate issued; As-Built EPC lodged where applicable.
Declan attends site personally to inspect the works relevant to that stage.
Formal signed certificate in the format required by your lender, issued promptly after the visit.
Any significant defects or deviations from approved drawings are flagged in writing before certification.
Declan is available by phone or email between inspections to answer queries as they arise on site.
Fees are agreed at the outset and set out in a written Client Instruction and Fee Agreement — the document your lender will typically require to confirm the Professional Consultant appointment.
Fees are structured around the number of agreed stages and the project value. A portion is typically payable on first inspection, with the balance due prior to the issue of the completion certificate.
Call or email to discuss your project. We'll confirm the number of inspection stages your lender requires, agree a fee, and provide the necessary appointment documentation — usually within a few working days.
Early appointment avoids delays. Call or email to get the paperwork in place before your build starts.