This is a big subject, but the general consensus is a 20% deposit and upon writing a construction program and contract however, there maybe some high value products which the Client should fund themselves, When completing you Construction program and speaking with suppliers and lead in times, this will highlight the cash flow for your project.

Many builders work in different ways, its really is down to you and your builder the payment structure but what is important is that it is written down.

I personally, if I was a Client (either with an instructing architect or designer) and I will be selecting finishes, paying for them, I would instruct the builder to buy them through there business and pay them an overhead and profit.

Many Architects have suitable professional indemnity to act as Contract Administrator and issue payment certificates and of course, you could employ a Quantity Surveyor whom has an independent role from the Architect to act as Contract Administrator.

This then puts the onus on the builder to take delivery, safely store and report any storages etc.

It goes without saying you should never fund a build project on your personal cash flow, you need to have the funding in place before you start a project.

Its very important you keep all your paperwork together in a safe and secure place.

If your builder wants payments in cash, get them to sign a receipt on each and every occasion, also do a spreadsheet or separate note paper showing the payments.

So, When I wrote this, I decided to do a part 2 which I think will be blog number 9, so look out for that as this is very much more formal.

What I will say, I try to provide enough information in these blogs to help you and things to consider for your project but any good builder would be reasonable with you.

Warm regards

Brad

p.s My joke, I know lame ; I had to report my stolen amazon package, The police are still looking for a prime suspect