Business Details
33 Years
experience
Know what your project should cost, before you commit
Understanding the financial implications of a residential building project is central to our work at Derek Gough Associates. We are an independent practice of chartered quantity surveyors, contract administrators and project managers, regulated by RICS and accredited to ISO 9001. Our principal focus is high-value private residential development, covering refurbishment, enlargement and construction of new homes. From our Knutsford and central London offices, we serve clients across Cheshire, the North West and London, while extending our activities within the Midlands. We assist with financial forecasting, contractual arrangements and project delivery, maintaining a practical and transparent approach that places our clients' interests first.Our services are structured to accommodate different project requirements. DGA Plus provides homeowners planning works up to £1 million with a guided method of managing costs before major commitments are made. Working alongside their architects, clients develop budgets through regional cost planning templates and receive professional reviews at important design milestones. We examine proposed expenditure, highlight missing allowances and help establish a sound basis for comparing tender submissions. More demanding commissions benefit from our comprehensive professional services, encompassing cost planning, tender preparation, construction contract administration, project management and financial reporting through to final accounts. We additionally undertake Employer's Agent responsibilities, lender monitoring and assessments of whole-life expenditure and carbon.
Services
Quantity surveying
Project management
DGA Plus cost planning
Cost plans and budget estimates
Schedules of works and tender documents
Tender management
Contract administration
Employer's Agent services
Post-contract cost management
Fund monitoring for lenders
Whole-life cost and carbon assessment
Served areas
- Knutsford, Cheshire, Wilmslow, Alderley Edge, Prestbury, Hale, Altrincham, Macclesfield, Manchester, North West England, London, Belgravia, Chelsea, Kensington, Knightsbridge, Mayfair, Westminster, Midlands, UK-wide (DGA Plus)
Details
- Year established: 1993
- Employees: 17
- Licensed
- Insured
Highlights and features
- RICS-regulated practice
- ISO 9001 accredited
- Chartered quantity surveyors
- Independent advice, acting for the client
- Specialists in high-end private residential
- DGA Plus cost toolkit for projects up to £1m
- Review sessions with a chartered QS
- Offices in Knutsford and central London
- Regional cost templates for London and the rest of the UK
- Works alongside architects and designers
Associations and certifications
- RICS-regulated firm
- ISO 9001 accredited quality management
- Good Business Charter Accredited
Payment methods
- Debit cards, Credit cards, Mobile payments, Bank transfers
What people say
"Outstanding Service from DGA Quantity Surveyors"
"We received a great service where we required a 4M plus tender pricing in a short time frame"
For me the difference that makes the difference is the people ..and in my case I could not be happier with everything that Ian and Blair did for me so responsive, supportive and always ready to help or give guidance.
Services
Project Planning
Our project planning services begin with an assessment of scheme feasibility, suitability and anticipated timescales. We assist clients in identifying an appropriate design team and establishing how building works should be procured. In collaboration with our Quantity Surveyors, we calculate initial construction budgets and develop overall cost projections that account for direct client expenditure, fees and VAT.
Project Management
We take overall responsibility for managing and co-ordinating projects, including the design team and contractor. Acting as your trusted advisor, we maintain a close oversight of progress and performance. Our presence on the ground enables us to monitor every stage of the project. We ensure that time, cost and the highest quality expectations remain central throughout.
Client Representation
We understand that our clients may have limited time to dedicate to construction projects. Acting as their representative, we collaborate closely with family offices and in-house staff to establish and implement their requirements. Regular progress updates ensure they remain informed throughout. We also welcome active participation in design approvals and material selections whenever preferred.
Contract Administration
Through our contract administration services, we manage formal contractual processes with the Contractor on your behalf. Particular attention is given to following the procedures specified within the contract. We coordinate and manage the exchange of information to maintain an orderly process. Where the scope of works changes, we document these variations and issue the appropriate instructions.
People
Ian Scott
Director of Project Management
We deliver seamless project experiences to the highest of standards with expertise, integrity and a human touch. Our service is built upon decades of industry knowledge and trust, enabling a project to flow. Full of involvement, energised focus and enjoyment.
Reviews (6)
Jon Simpson
Nov 05, 2026
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We picked DGA as our QS for a new build project and were delighted with their help and support.
The project was a family home with an annexe in Mobberley and included the building as well as landscaping.
They prepared a cost plan and tender documents, analysed the tenders and put the build in place under a JCT prime cost contract.
During the 15 months of construction they acted as QS and contract administrator. They checked contractor’s costs and invoices, valuing the work each month and reported regularly against our budget.
At completion they certified practical completion and are now managing the rectification period.
Not only did they work well with ourselves but also the wider team including the contractor, architect, interior designer and landscape architect.
Would thoroughly recommend.
Jon and Angela, homeowners in Mobberley
The project was a family home with an annexe in Mobberley and included the building as well as landscaping.
They prepared a cost plan and tender documents, analysed the tenders and put the build in place under a JCT prime cost contract.
During the 15 months of construction they acted as QS and contract administrator. They checked contractor’s costs and invoices, valuing the work each month and reported regularly against our budget.
At completion they certified practical completion and are now managing the rectification period.
Not only did they work well with ourselves but also the wider team including the contractor, architect, interior designer and landscape architect.
Would thoroughly recommend.
Jon and Angela, homeowners in Mobberley
Ian Macarthur
Nov 02, 2025
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It was my first experience with this company they submitted a tender for my company which was successful the whole process was a good experience
St Demolition & Groundwork Ltd
Jun 19, 2025
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I can not praise this company enough, I have been a client of Derek Gough's now for 5 years and they have helped me grow my company to what is is today. The staff are professional and are there to assist us in getting the prices right for our clients. They have helped us so much and accommodated us at short notice. Thank you to Derek, Philippa, Edward and all the staff at Derek Gough Associates for assisting us in growing our business.
Gavin Mack
Nov 27, 2024
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The service provided was excellent. Friendly, professional and responsive to our personal requirements.
James
Sep 14, 2024
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We have worked with DGA for nearly 15 years and find them to offer a professional approachable service. They have a great team and the values of the business are beyond reproach.
David Hachuel
Dec 13, 2023
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Edward and his team not only worked swiftly on our project but also provided valuable actionable recommendations and advice. Wise team to have by your side.