Why a Detailed Construction Scope of Work Is Crucial for Your Home Extension or Renovation
Planning a home extension or renovation project? Whether you’re adding a rear kitchen extension, reconfiguring internal layouts, or converting your loft, one of the most important documents in the entire process is the Construction Scope of Work (SOW).
At Go Plans, we provide professionally prepared Scope of Work (SOW) documents tailored to your project. These aren’t just checklists — they’re comprehensive, builder-ready packs designed to ensure your vision is clearly understood and accurately executed, helping to avoid unexpected costs during the build. With a detailed Scope of Work in place, your builder should be able to provide a precise quotation based on the document, meaning no surprise expenses cropping up later down the line.
👉Check out our interactive flipbook example here to explore what a full SOW looks like.
What Is a Construction Scope of Work?
A Scope of Work is a detailed document that defines exactly what building work is being undertaken, who’s responsible for what, how it will be done, and to what specification. It typically includes:
🏘️ Architectural drawings (existing and proposed)
🏗️ Structural engineering specifications
💡 Mechanical & Electrical layouts (M&E)
🧱 Fixtures, fittings, finishes
📏 Building regulations compliance
⚙️ Material and construction method specs
📋 Health & Safety notes and CDM guidance
🚿 Plumbing & drainage plans
🪵 Timber, steel, and foundation details
Why You Shouldn’t Start Without One
Without a clear and complete Scope of Work, your project is open to interpretation — and that’s where miscommunication, delays, and spiraling costs creep in.
Here’s why a proper SOW saves the day:
✅ Aligns homeowners, builders & trades from day one
✅ Accurate pricing: Contractors know exactly what’s needed
✅ Smooth planning approvals and building regulation compliance
✅ Minimises risk of unexpected changes mid-build
✅ Ensures quality and finish match your expectations
What’s Inside Our Scope of Work Pack?
Here’s what makes our SOW documents different:
Full Planning Drawings
We include all necessary architectural plans — from existing layouts to the proposed extension or renovation works — drawn to scale and clearly annotated.
Building Regulations Pack
Detailed specifications covering insulation, foundations, floor build-ups, wall constructions, damp-proofing, fire safety and structural load paths.
Structural Engineering Calculations
Steel and timber beam specs, padstone sizes, foundation assumptions — all designed and signed off by certified engineers.
Mechanical & Electrical Plans
From radiator positions and light switches to hot water and extract ventilation — it’s all laid out for your builder and M&E trades.
Fixtures, Fittings & Finishes
Details like soundproofing, switchable privacy glass, bathroom fittings, flooring, radiators, doors and handles, and storage solutions are all included.
Try Our Interactive Scope of Work Tool
We’ve created this interactive flipbook so you can see a live example of what your custom Scope of Work would look like. It’s a fantastic resource whether you’re:
- Planning a rear or side extension
- Converting your loft or garage
- Undertaking internal reconfigurations
- Adding a new kitchen, utility, or bathroom
Built for Builders. Loved by Homeowners.
Our SOW documents are designed to be used on-site. They’re formatted to be clear for your builder and comprehensive enough for building control officers and party wall surveyors.
And because they’re fully digital, they’re easy to share, print, or reference during site visits.