Glasgow & Scotland
Built on
18 Years ofPrecision.
We manage your build end-to-end using a trusted network of vetted contractors we've worked with for years. You get one point of contact, a fixed fee and a finished project delivered to the standard we promised.
Self builds · Extensions · Renovations · Investor refurbishments
Self BuildsHome ExtensionsProperty RefurbishmentsInvestor ProjectsTimber FrameNew BuildsRenovationsProject ManagementBudget ControlQuality Assured
Self BuildsHome ExtensionsProperty RefurbishmentsInvestor ProjectsTimber FrameNew BuildsRenovationsProject ManagementBudget ControlQuality Assured
What we do
We Manage Your Build.
Start to Finish.
You're planning a build — a self build, extension, renovation or investor refurb. You need contractors you can trust. We already have them. A network of vetted tradespeople we've worked with for years — the best groundworker, the best joiner, the right team for your job. We manage them so you don't have to.
- Trusted vetted contractors — already in place
- Manage contracts & stage payments
- Control the budget in real time
- Inspect quality at every stage
- Sort problems before they cost you
How it works →
Who we work with
Homeowners &
Property Investors.
Whether you're building your family home, extending your property or refurbishing an investment flat — we manage the build so you don't have to. For extensions, we introduce you to architects we trust, then handle everything once planning is approved.
- Self builds — timber frame specialists
- Home extensions — turnkey packages
- Renovations & refurbishments
- Investor property refurbs
- Timber frame erection & first fix
View our services →
What you get
One Fixed Fee.
No Nasty Surprises.
We agree a fixed fee before work starts. You get one point of contact throughout — Michael, directly. No juniors. No handoffs. No contractors calling you about problems. Just a finished project, delivered to the standard we agreed.
- Fixed fee — agreed upfront
- One point of contact throughout
- No surprise costs or variations
- Regular progress updates
- Professional handover on completion
Apply to work with us →
Why Murphy PM
We Make ItSimple.
18 years of hands-on construction experience means we've seen every problem before it happens — and built processes to prevent it.
01
Vetted, reliable contractors
We only work with trusted tradespeople who've proven they deliver quality on time. No rogue traders, no nasty surprises.
02
Strict budget control
Transparent pricing, live cost tracking, and proactive management. We identify overrun risks before they become expensive problems.
03
Weekly progress reports
Every week you receive a written report with photos from site, a budget update and a programme status. You know exactly what's been done, what's coming next and where your money has gone — without having to chase anyone.
04
Quality & compliance
Strict quality control at every stage. Full adherence to Scottish building regulations and MCIOB professional standards.
05
Minimal disruption
We plan and phase work carefully to reduce downtime to your business or household. We make construction less disruptive.
06
On time, every time
18 years of scheduling and coordinating trades. We know what goes wrong — and we've built processes to prevent it.
Our commitment
We limit our project intake — deliberately.
Most project management companies take on as much work as possible. We don't. We cap the number of active projects we run at any one time so that every client gets our full attention, every detail gets checked, and every project is delivered to the highest standard. Quality over volume — always.
Sister company
Need the physical build too?Meet Murphy Construction.
Murphy Construction is our sister company — self build and timber frame specialists across Glasgow and Scotland. While Murphy Project Management oversees your build, Murphy Construction can deliver it. One family of businesses, total accountability.
✓Timber frame kit erection & wall sheeting
✓Self build full construction contracts
✓Home extensions & renovations
✓First fix joinery & decking
✓Commercial fit-outs across Scotland
Murphy Project Management
We manage it
MCIOB-qualified oversight, budget control, contractor coordination and full compliance management.
Murphy Construction
We build it
Timber frame erection, wall sheeting, first fix joinery, extensions, renovations and fit-outs.
Use one or both — one family of businesses, fully accountable for your project from start to finish.
Credentials
Professional accreditation backed by nearly two decades of hands-on construction experience across Scotland. Learn about Michael →
MCIOB
Chartered Institute of Building
Limited
Intake
Quality over quantity
01
Free consultation
We discuss your project, timeline, and budget — no obligation, no sales pressure. Just honest advice on how to approach your build.
02
Plan & proposal
We review your drawings, assess requirements, and provide a detailed project plan with clear milestones and transparent fees.
03
We manage everything
Contractor coordination, quality inspections, budget tracking, compliance — every detail handled from start to finish.
04
Handover
A professional walkthrough of the completed project ensuring every detail is right before we hand the keys over.
★★★★★
"We used Murphy Project Management to oversee one of our recent renovations and we could not be happier with the results. If you're looking for a company that you can rely on, who communicates properly with their clients, provides strategic planning whilst maintaining high standards and delivers a professional finish — then I would highly recommend their service without hesitation!"
Rebecca Longmire
Google Review · Renovation Client
★★★★★
"I have been building and refurbishing properties since 1992 and I have to say Michael and his team have been second to none. A full strip out and refurbishment of a very large detached house just outside Glasgow was completed in no time at all. The weekly reports supplied with breakdowns and photos made my life so much easier. Highly recommended!"
Matthew Lauchlan
Google Review · Property Investor
★★★★★
"We appointed Murphy Project Management to help us get a job over the line — the organisation and communication skills were absolutely fantastic. Michael is straight to the point on what is and isn't possible, which helped us drive the job forward and get back on track for completion as quickly as possible."
Kieran Hartness
Google Review · Construction Client
★★★★★
"Michael was subcontracted to help us project manage a 100+ new build home site in Glasgow. Ultra professional and great guy too. Would happily recommend his services."
Tomas Robertson
Google Review · Local Guide · TR2 Group
★★★★★
"Having had the pleasure working alongside Michael, his knowledge and experience within the industry was very reassuring. I truly believe Murphy Management will have everything you need to run your project effectively, efficiently and more importantly as cost effective as possible. 5 star builder."
Mark Turnbull
Google Review · Assistant Site Manager, Barratt Homes
LinkedIn Recommendations
★★★★★
"Michael is a really easy guy to work with, his efficiency and management are second to none. His knowledge of the construction industry as a whole is mind blowing — working with him is like having an on-site encyclopaedia."
Owen Duncan
LinkedIn · Experienced Joiner, OD Carpentry
LinkedIn Recommendations
★★★★★
"Michael is a stand up guy and a great project manager. He came in to assist WVB Projects on a challenging multi million pound construction project and was a great help. Very professional and a great asset. We'd highly recommend."
Tomas Robertson
LinkedIn · Founder, TR2 Group
LinkedIn Recommendations
★★★★★
"Michael has excellent team leadership and people management skills. His effective communication, organisational qualities and problem solving skills ensure that projects run well and that any issues are dealt with promptly. He is very approachable and knowledgeable within the industry and is someone who is trustworthy and dependable."
Kevin Clinton
LinkedIn · Director, CJC Timberframe Ltd
LinkedIn Recommendations
★★★★★
"I would highly recommend Michael. He is very knowledgeable, extremely capable, conscientious, polite and easy to deal with. He is very efficient and always a pleasure to work with."
Philomena O'Neill
LinkedIn · Site Administrator & Document Controller
5★
9 reviews across Google and LinkedIn — all 5 star.
Every review from a real client or colleague. If you've worked with us and would like to leave a review it would mean a lot.
Leave a Google Review →
Flexible support
Day Rate
Bespoke day rateTailored to your project and level of involvement
Ideal if you need support for a specific phase or trade. Stay closely involved yourself — you only pay for the days we're actively working on your project.
- Flexible — use us as much or as little as needed
- Perfect for specific phases or trades management
- Suits clients who want to remain hands-on
- No long-term commitment required
Apply to Work With Us →
Most popular — full management
Percentage of Build Cost
10–15% of build costPaid in monthly instalments — no large upfront fees
We manage every aspect from start to handover. Monthly payments mean no large upfront fee — transparent costs aligned to project progress.
- Complete end-to-end project management
- Monthly instalments — no large upfront payment
- Single point of contact throughout
- Full compliance and quality assurance included
- Access to our vetted contractor network
Apply to Work With Us →
Meet Michael
Built FromThe Ground Up.
Michael Murphy started his career as an apprentice joiner and spent 18 years working on construction sites across Scotland before founding Murphy Project Management.
He holds the MCIOB qualification — one of the most respected credentials in UK construction. But what sets him apart isn't the qualification. It's the fact that he's done the work himself, on the tools, and knows exactly what good looks like.
Every project is managed directly by Michael — no juniors, no handoffs. You get 18 years of experience on your site, every day.
About Michael →
What a project manager actually does
A Typical WeekOn Your Build.
Most people don't fully understand what a project manager does day-to-day — or why it matters. Here's what's happening behind the scenes on a typical week while your project is on site.
Monday
Site visit & contractor check-in
On site early. Checking progress against programme. Inspecting quality of work completed the previous week. Confirming materials have arrived. Identifying any issues before they become problems.
Tuesday – Thursday
Coordination, procurement & problem-solving
Coordinating the sequence of trades. Ordering materials ahead of when they're needed. Dealing with any site issues directly. Chasing contractors on programme. Reviewing drawings for upcoming stages.
Friday
Weekly report to you
You receive a written report with photos from site, a budget update showing exactly where your money has gone, and a programme update for the week ahead. No chasing required — it arrives in your inbox every Friday.
Throughout
Stage payments & quality sign-off
Contractors are paid in stages — and only once each stage has been inspected and signed off. If work isn't right, it isn't paid for. This keeps every trade accountable and your money protected throughout the build.
While all of this is happening, you're getting on with your life. No contractor calls. No site problems landing on your desk. No budget surprises. Just a Friday report and a build that's moving forward properly.
Domestic services
Your Home,Done Properly.
Professional construction project management for homeowners across Glasgow and Scotland. Whether you're building from scratch, extending your home, or renovating an existing property, we bring the same MCIOB-qualified expertise that our commercial clients rely on.
We limit our project intake deliberately — so your self-build, extension or renovation gets Michael's full focus from day one to handover. No juggling, no divided attention. Just one project manager fully committed to your build.
01 — Self Build
Self Builds
We manage your self build from planning approval through to handover. We'll introduce you to architects we trust at the outset, then take over the full build management once you're ready to proceed.
- Architect introduction & referral
- Full construction management
- Building warrant and compliance
- Turnkey delivery
02 — Renovation
Renovations
Transform your existing property with comprehensive renovation management. We breathe new life into spaces while maintaining character and staying on budget.
- Complete property renovations
- Interior remodelling
- Period property restoration
- Modern upgrades
03 — Extension
Home Extensions
Thinking about extending but not sure where to start? We introduce you to architects we trust, help you sense-check your brief, then manage the full build — procurement, contracts, stage payments and snagging.
- Architect introduction & brief sense-check
- Planning and building warrant coordination
- Contractor procurement and management
- Stage payments, quality checks & snagging
04 — Timber Frame
Timber Frame
Specialist timber frame build management. We coordinate structural engineers, kit suppliers, and follow-on trades for a smooth, efficient build.
- Timber frame kit coordination
- Structural engineer liaison
- Erection and weathertight management
- Follow-on trades coordination
How extensions work with us
From First IdeaTo Finished Extension.
Most homeowners don't know where to start with an extension — finding an architect, getting planning, then finding a builder they can trust. We simplify the whole process. We introduce you to architects we trust, sit in on the brief, and once planning is approved we take over completely — managing everything or building it ourselves through Murphy Construction.
Phase 1 — £500 to £1,000
Architect Introduction & Brief Sense-Check
We introduce you to an architect we trust. We sit in on the initial meeting, help you sense-check your brief, and make sure the design is buildable within your budget before any planning fees are committed.
- —Introduction to a trusted Glasgow architect
- —Brief review and budget sense-check
- —Planning liability stays with the architect
- —No obligation to proceed further
For everyone
Phase 2 — PM Only
Full Project Management
Planning approved — you appoint your own builder, we manage them on your behalf. We oversee the work, carry out quality inspections throughout and handle all snagging at the end. You stay in control of who builds it, we make sure it's built right.
- —Management of your appointed contractors
- —Regular site inspections and reporting
- —Budget tracking and cost control
- —Full snagging and handover
You appoint your own builder
Most Popular
Phase 2 — Turnkey
I'll Handle Everything For You.
Planning approved — hand it over. One fixed fee. One point of contact. No contractors to find, no surprises halfway through, no chasing people on site. Murphy PM manages it and Murphy Construction builds it. You get a finished extension and complete peace of mind.
- —One fixed fee — agreed before work starts
- —One point of contact throughout
- —No nasty surprises — total cost transparency
- —Murphy PM manages — Murphy Construction builds
- —Full snagging and professional handover
Apply to Work With Us →
Typical extension build cost
£40k – £150k
Single storey to double storey across Glasgow. £2,000–£3,000 per m² depending on type, complexity and specification. Full cost guide →
Typical self build cost
£2,000–£2,750+/m²
A 150m² home typically costs £300k–£415k to build in Scotland, before land, fees and VAT. Full cost guide →
Our PM fee on top
10–15%
Of your total build cost, paid monthly. Almost always recovered through better budget control and preventing costly mistakes.
Flexible support
Day Rate
Bespoke day rateTailored to your level of involvement
Ideal if you need support for a specific phase. You stay hands-on and only pay for the days we're actively working on your project.
- Flexible — use us as much or as little as needed
- Perfect for specific phases
- Suits clients who want to stay involved
Apply to Work With Us →
Most popular
Percentage of Build Cost
10–15% of build costPaid in monthly instalments — no large upfront fees
We manage everything from start to handover. Monthly instalments mean no large upfront payment — just steady, transparent costs.
- Complete end-to-end management
- Monthly instalments — no big upfront payment
- Single point of contact throughout
- Full compliance and quality assurance
- Access to our vetted contractor network
Apply to Work With Us →
Our work
SelectedProjects.
From property refurbishments and investor projects to self-builds and extensions across Glasgow and Scotland — every project demonstrates our commitment to quality, precision, and exceptional delivery. We deliberately limit the number of projects we manage so each one gets the full attention it deserves.
Our approach
Every project is managed directly by Michael Murphy — MCIOB qualified with 18 years of hands-on construction experience across Scotland.
Quality assured
We only work with vetted contractors and conduct regular site inspections to ensure every phase meets our exacting standards.
Limited intake
We cap the number of active projects we manage. This is how we protect quality — fewer projects, full attention, exceptional results every time.
01 — Commercial · Glasgow City Centre
Office Reconfiguration
Conversion of a single large open-plan office into three distinct, fully-equipped workspaces — delivered on programme while the building remained partially occupied throughout.
- Conversion into three distinct, accessible workspaces
- Strategic space planning to maximise usable area
- Individual access points and enhanced privacy
- Professional acoustic insulation installation
- Improved lighting and climate control adaptation
02 — Commercial · Renovation
Gym Refurbishment
Full reception and changing facility transformation for a commercial gym. Delivered to a tight programme to minimise closure time — reopened ahead of the agreed schedule.
- Demolition of existing changing facilities
- Creation of modern, welcoming reception area
- Brand-aligned design and finish throughout
- Durable commercial flooring installation
- Enhanced customer flow and accessibility
03 — Residential · Wishaw, North Lanarkshire
Wishaw Flat — Full Refurbishment
Full refurbishment of a traditional tenement flat for a property investor. Purchased for £85k, refurbished for £30k, valued at £165k — all capital recycled out on refinance.
- New kitchen with island, brass hardware and stone worktops
- Full marble-effect bathroom — freestanding bath and double vanity
- New central heating, full rewire and replaster throughout
- LVT hallway, wainscoting panelling and sliding barn door
- 12 weeks on site, on budget, all money out
View full case study →
04 — Add your project
Case study coming soon
Aim for 6–8 total projects — a mix of investor refurbs and domestic builds. Clients who see relevant examples of your work are far more likely to get in touch.
About Murphy PM
Built FromThe Ground Up.
"By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail."
— Benjamin Franklin
Apply to Work With Us →
Founded by Michael Murphy — a project management professional who started his career as an apprentice joiner and worked his way up through 18 years of hands-on construction experience across Scotland.
Michael holds the prestigious MCIOB qualification from the Chartered Institute of Building, one of the most respected credentials in the UK construction industry. But what sets Murphy PM apart isn't the qualification — it's the fact that Michael has spent nearly two decades on construction sites, understanding the challenges from the ground up.
We understand the frustrations that commercial landlords, developers, and homeowners face: unreliable contractors, spiralling costs, missed deadlines, and quality issues that only emerge once the builder has left. That's why we built a business around solving exactly those problems — with transparency, precision, and genuine accountability at every stage.
Whether you're a commercial investor looking to maximise the value of a property, or a homeowner building your dream house, you get the same level of professional dedication and expert oversight on every project.
Our mission
Why We Do This
We understand the frustrations clients face — unreliable contractors, spiralling costs, missed deadlines, quality issues. That's why we provide expert project management, ensuring every aspect of your project is handled with precision and professionalism. With a focus on transparency, efficiency, and quality, we take full responsibility for your project so you can focus on what matters most.
The person behind the business
Meet Michael.Murphy.
"I started this business because I was tired of seeing people get let down by builders who didn't care. People saving up for years to build their dream home — and ending up with stress, overspends and work that had to be redone. I knew there was a better way."
Michael began his career as an apprentice joiner, working his way through every aspect of construction over nearly two decades. He knows construction from the ground up — not just from behind a desk. That's what makes the difference on site.
He holds the MCIOB qualification from the Chartered Institute of Building — one of the most respected credentials in UK construction. Every project is managed directly by Michael. No juniors. No handoffs. You get 18 years of experience on your build, every day.
His kids are his biggest motivation. He's building Murphy Project Management as a legacy — something real and lasting. Every project delivered to the highest standard is a brick in something bigger.
Core values
What Drives Us
H
Honesty
Always transparent and truthful with clients and partners — even when it's not what they want to hear.
L
Leadership
Guiding each project with vision, expertise, and a commitment to excellence from day one through to handover.
T
Trust
Earning and maintaining trust by delivering on every promise and putting clients first, always.
E
Excellence
Setting high standards and consistently exceeding them — not as an aspiration, but as a minimum expectation.
V
Value
Providing unmatched service and results so clients always see the true worth in what we deliver.
★★★★★
"We used Murphy Project Management to oversee one of our recent renovations and we could not be happier with the results. Communicates properly, provides strategic planning and delivers a professional finish — highly recommend without hesitation!"
Rebecca Longmire
Google Review · Renovation Client
★★★★★
"I have been building and refurbishing properties since 1992 and Michael and his team have been second to none. Weekly reports with breakdowns and photos made my life so much easier. Highly recommended!"
Matthew Lauchlan
Google Review · Property Investor
★★★★★
"Michael was subcontracted to help us project manage a 100+ new build home site in Glasgow. Ultra professional and great guy too. Would happily recommend his services."
Tomas Robertson
Google Review · Local Guide · TR2 Group
★★★★★
"Michael has excellent team leadership and people management skills. His communication, organisational qualities and problem solving ensure projects run well. Trustworthy and dependable."
Kevin Clinton
LinkedIn · Director, CJC Timberframe Ltd
FAQ
Your Questions,Answered.
Everything you need to know before getting in touch. Can't find your answer? Call us on 07387 982 751.
How much does project management cost?
We charge either a bespoke day rate or 10–15% of total build cost, paid in monthly instalments. The percentage option is most popular for full projects as it aligns our fee with the scale of work. We'll recommend the best option for your specific project on the free consultation call.
What areas do you cover?
We're based in Glasgow and cover the whole of Scotland — including Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Edinburgh, Stirling, and the Lothians. If you're unsure whether we cover your area, just give us a call.
How do you ensure quality throughout the project?
We have a rigorous approach to quality control at every phase — working only with experienced, vetted contractors, conducting regular site inspections, and ensuring all materials meet specification. We follow MCIOB professional standards and ensure full compliance with Scottish building regulations throughout.
How involved do I need to be?
As much or as little as you like. We manage the project entirely on your behalf, keeping you informed with regular updates. You make the key decisions — we handle everything else. Most clients find they spend far less time worrying about their project than they expected to.
How do I get started?
The first step is to apply to work with us using the form on our Apply page. We do it this way deliberately — we limit the number of projects we take on at any one time to make sure every client gets our full attention and every build is delivered to the highest standard. The application takes 2 minutes, Michael reviews it personally, and if it looks like a good fit we'll be in touch within one working day to arrange a call. We'd rather work with fewer clients exceptionally well than take on everything and let standards slip.
What makes you different from other project managers?
Three things. First, Michael started as a joiner on the tools — he understands construction from the ground up, not just from behind a desk. Second, he holds the MCIOB qualification — one of the highest credentials in the UK construction industry. Third, and most importantly, we deliberately limit the number of projects we take on. Most firms take everything they can get. We don't. Fewer projects means more focus, higher standards, and better outcomes for every client we work with.
Can you manage a project that's already started?
Yes. We regularly step into projects that are underway — whether that's because a previous manager has left, a contractor relationship has broken down, or the client simply wants better oversight. We'll assess the current situation and provide an honest view of where things stand before taking over.
Do you work on investor and homeowner projects?
Both. We manage everything from self-build homes and domestic extensions to investor property refurbishments and portfolio projects. The same professional standards and personal attention apply regardless of project size.
What happens if something goes wrong on site?
This is exactly why you hire a project manager. If a contractor underperforms, we deal with it directly — we don't pass the problem to you. If work isn't up to standard it doesn't get signed off and it doesn't get paid for until it is. If a contractor lets us down on programme, we already have alternatives in our network we can bring in. You won't hear about most problems because we'll have sorted them before they affect you.
What if a contractor causes damage or does poor quality work?
Every contractor we work with is vetted and holds their own insurance. If defective work is carried out, we require it to be rectified at the contractor's cost before any further payment is released. Stage payments mean contractors are never paid ahead of their work — so you're always protected. Poor quality work gets flagged at our regular inspections, not after the contractor has left site.
What if the project goes over budget?
Our job is to prevent this — not react to it. We track costs in real time and flag any risk of overrun the moment it appears, not after the money has been spent. We agree a detailed budget before work starts and any changes to scope are priced and agreed with you before they're instructed. No surprises.
Work with us
We're Selective.For Good Reason.
We deliberately limit the number of projects we take on at any one time. Not because we can't handle more — but because consistently delivering the highest standard of work requires full focus on every project. We'd rather do fewer things exceptionally well than take on everything and let standards slip. Fill in the form below and Michael will personally review your project.
Why we do this
Not every projectis the right fit.
We cap the number of active projects we manage at any one time. This isn't a marketing line — it's how we protect the quality of every build we're responsible for.
Taking on too many projects means divided attention, reactive management, and corners getting cut. That's not how we work. Every client gets Michael's direct focus, from the first site visit to final handover.
01
You apply
Fill in the short form — takes 2 minutes. No obligation.
02
Michael reviews
We assess your project and confirm we're the right fit within one working day.
03
We arrange a call
If it looks like a good fit, Michael gets in touch directly to talk through the detail.
04
Your hassle-free build begins
We take it from here. You focus on your business or your life — we handle everything else.
Self Build Project Management · Glasgow & Scotland
Self Build ProjectManager Scotland.
Building your own home in Scotland is one of the most rewarding things you can do — and one of the most complex. Murphy Project Management provides MCIOB-qualified self build project management across Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Edinburgh, Stirling and all of Scotland.
We deliberately limit the number of self build projects we take on at any one time. Every self build client gets Michael's direct attention from plot assessment and planning through to final snagging and handover — no juggling multiple projects, no divided focus.
Why you need a project manager
Self Builds Are Complex.We Make Them Simple.
Most self build projects in Scotland take longer and cost more than expected — not because of bad luck, but because of poor coordination, contractor issues, and a lack of professional oversight. A self build project manager prevents those problems before they happen.
Michael Murphy has 18 years of hands-on construction experience, having started his career as a joiner. He holds the MCIOB qualification — the Chartered Institute of Building's highest standard. He understands self builds from the ground up, not just from behind a desk.
Whether you're building a traditional masonry house, a timber frame self build, or a contemporary design, we manage the entire process so you can focus on the exciting parts — choosing your finishes, planning your garden, and watching your home take shape.
Without a project manager
- ✕ Coordinating trades yourself — stressful and time-consuming
- ✕ Contractors running behind with no accountability
- ✕ Budget creep with no early warning system
- ✕ Quality issues only found after the builder has left
- ✕ Building regulations compliance gaps
With Murphy Project Management
- ✓ All trades coordinated and scheduled by us
- ✓ Contractors held to programme and quality standards
- ✓ Budget tracked in real time with early alerts
- ✓ Regular quality inspections at every stage
- ✓ Full Scottish building regulations compliance
Our self build service
What We ManageFor Your Self Build
01 — Pre-construction
Plot & Planning Stage
We review your plot, assess any constraints, and coordinate with your architect and structural engineer to ensure your plans are buildable and cost-effective before any work starts.
- Plot feasibility assessment
- Architect and designer coordination
- Building warrant management
- Pre-construction budget review
02 — Procurement
Contractor Selection
We source, vet, and appoint the right contractors for your self build — from groundworkers and structural teams to joiners, plumbers, and electricians. Only proven trades make our network.
- Contractor tendering and selection
- Contract preparation and review
- Programme scheduling
- Access to our vetted trade network
03 — Construction
On-Site Management
We manage the build on a day-to-day basis — overseeing contractors, resolving issues before they escalate, and ensuring every phase of construction meets the required standard.
- Daily and weekly site supervision
- Trade coordination and scheduling
- Problem resolution
- Progress reporting to you
04 — Quality & Compliance
Inspections & Standards
Regular quality inspections at every key stage of your self build. We ensure all works meet Scottish building regulations and your own specification before sign-off.
- Stage-by-stage quality inspections
- Scottish building regs compliance
- Warranty and certification management
- Snagging at practical completion
05 — Budget Control
Cost Management
We track every pound of your self build budget in real time. You'll always know where you stand financially, with early warning of any potential overruns before they become problems.
- Detailed cost plan from the start
- Live budget tracking
- Variation management
- Monthly cost reports
06 — Handover
Completion & Handover
At practical completion we conduct a thorough snagging inspection, ensure all certifications are in order, and hand over a complete documentation pack for your new home.
- Full snagging inspection
- Completion certificate management
- Documentation and warranty pack
- Final walkthrough with you
Build types we manage
Self Build TypesWe Specialise In
Timber Frame
The most popular self build method in Scotland. We coordinate kit suppliers, structural engineers, and follow-on trades for a fast, efficient build.
Masonry & Block
Traditional Scottish construction. We manage groundwork, masonry, roofing and all follow-on trades through to a fully finished home.
Contemporary & Bespoke
Architect-designed one-off homes with complex specifications. We work closely with your design team to deliver your vision exactly as intended.
Plot & Design Stage
Brought in early before any contractor is appointed. We help you assess plots, review architect drawings, and plan your build realistically.
Coverage
Self Build Project ManagementAcross Scotland
We manage self build projects across the whole of Scotland. Based in Glasgow, we cover all surrounding areas and regularly work on projects further afield across the country.
Common questions
Self Build FAQ
Do I need a project manager for my self build?
Not legally — but the statistics speak for themselves. The majority of self build projects in Scotland that run significantly over budget or over programme do so because of poor coordination and a lack of professional oversight. A self build project manager pays for themselves many times over by preventing costly mistakes, managing contractors effectively, and catching quality issues before they become expensive to fix.
How much does a self build project manager cost in Scotland?
We charge either a bespoke day rate or 10–15% of your total build cost, paid in monthly instalments. For most self builds, the percentage option works best as it aligns our fee with the scale and complexity of your project. We'll recommend the right approach on your initial call. The cost of a project manager is almost always recovered through better budget control, avoiding contractor overcharges, and preventing costly mistakes.
When should I appoint a self build project manager?
Ideally as early as possible — even at the plot assessment or planning stage. The earlier we're involved, the more value we can add. That said, we can also step in mid-build if your project needs rescuing or if your existing management approach isn't working. Getting us involved before contractor appointments saves the most money.
Do you manage timber frame self builds?
Yes — timber frame is the most popular self build method in Scotland and something we manage regularly. We coordinate the kit supplier, structural engineer, erection team, and all follow-on trades to ensure your frame goes up correctly and the programme runs smoothly. We're experienced with all the major Scottish timber frame suppliers.
Will I still have control over my self build?
Absolutely. You make all the key decisions — design choices, materials, finishes. Our job is to make sure those decisions are implemented correctly, on time, and within budget. Most self build clients tell us they feel more in control with us managing the project than when they tried to manage it themselves, because they get clear, regular updates without having to chase anyone.
Do you cover self builds outside Glasgow?
Yes — we manage self build projects across the whole of Scotland. We're regularly on sites in Lanarkshire, Renfrewshire, Ayrshire, Edinburgh, Stirling, and further afield. Distance is not an issue if the project is the right fit.
Meet Michael
Built FromThe Ground Up.
Michael Murphy started his career as an apprentice joiner and spent 18 years working on construction sites across Scotland before founding Murphy Project Management.
He holds the MCIOB qualification — one of the most respected credentials in UK construction. Every self build is managed directly by Michael — no juniors, no handoffs.
He knows what good looks like because he's built it himself, on the tools.
About Michael →
Self build costs · Scotland 2025
How Much Does a Self Build Costin Scotland?
Self build costs in Scotland typically range between £2,000 and £2,750+ per m² of gross internal floor area — covering build only, before land, professional fees and VAT. A 150m² home typically costs between £300,000 and £415,000 to build.
Standard Specification
£2,000–£2,300/m²
Good quality finish throughout — solid build with standard kitchen, bathrooms and finishes. Most common for self builders focused on value and liveability.
Mid–High Specification
£2,300–£2,750/m²
Better kitchen, upgraded bathrooms, underfloor heating, aluminium windows and higher insulation standards. Where most of our clients land.
Bespoke / Architect-Designed
£2,750+/m²
Complex designs, premium materials, high-spec glazing and bespoke joinery. No ceiling — specification drives everything at this level.
What's not included in the m² rate
Land
Plot cost varies by location. In and around Glasgow expect £80,000–£200,000+ for a serviced plot with planning permission.
Professional fees
Architect, structural engineer, building warrant, planning and project management. Budget 12–18% of build cost.
VAT
New build self builds are zero-rated for VAT on labour. Materials VAT can be reclaimed under HMRC's DIY Housebuilder scheme.
Why we don't give fixed rates
Every Project Is Different.We Price Accordingly.
The figures above are realistic starting points — but your specific project could sit anywhere within those ranges or outside them. Here's why, and what determines where your project lands.
Specification
Standard laminate flooring and basic fittings vs solid oak flooring, stone tiles and bespoke cabinetry. Specification is the single biggest variable in what your self build costs to fit out.
Structural complexity
Large spans, complex roof geometry, extensive glazing and basement elements all add significant cost that a simple per-m² figure won't capture.
Site conditions
Ground conditions, access restrictions, proximity to boundaries and drainage all affect cost. A straightforward site costs less than a restricted one — and you can't know until it's assessed.
What's included
Build cost is just the start. Architect fees (typically £3,000–£9,000), structural engineer, building warrant, planning fees and VAT all add to the total. A realistic budget accounts for all of these.
Design complexity
A simple rectangular build is more straightforward than a complex design with hips, dormers, large glazing elements or multi-level layouts. Complexity adds time and cost.
Contingency
We always recommend holding a 10–15% contingency. Not because we expect to use it — but because unexpected conditions arise and having contingency means decisions get made quickly, not delayed by budget pressure.
The honest answer
The Only Accurate NumberComes From Your Drawings.
Any company that gives you a firm price over the phone without seeing your drawings, assessing your site and understanding your specification is guessing. We don't guess. We review your drawings, visit your site and give you an accurate, fixed price for your specific project — so there are no surprises when work starts.
Get an Accurate Quote →
Our fees
What We ChargeTo Manage Your Self Build.
Two options depending on your level of involvement. Both include weekly progress reports, budget tracking and full quality oversight throughout.
Flexible support
Day Rate
Bespoke day rate
Tailored to your project and level of involvement
Ideal if you want to stay hands-on and only need professional oversight for specific phases. You pay for the days we're actively working on your project.
- —Flexible — as much or as little support as needed
- —Perfect for specific phases or trouble-shooting
- —Suits self builders who want to stay actively involved
Most Popular
Full management
Percentage of Build Cost
10–15% of build cost
Paid in monthly instalments — no large upfront fee
We manage everything from groundwork to handover. Monthly payments mean no large upfront fee — transparent costs aligned to your build programme.
- —Complete end-to-end self build management
- —Monthly instalments — no big upfront payment
- —One point of contact — Michael, directly
- —Weekly progress reports with photos and budget updates
- —Full snagging and professional handover
Apply to Work With Us →
The cost of a project manager is almost always recovered through better budget control, avoiding contractor overcharges and preventing mistakes that cost far more to fix than to prevent. Read our FAQ →
