FAQ

We understand that construction projects can encounter unexpected challenges. If delays or unforeseen issues arise, such as adverse weather, material shortages, or site conditions, we will keep you informed and work to resolve them as quickly as possible. While some delays may be unavoidable, we always aim to minimize disruption and keep the project on track. If delays do impact the timeline, we’ll provide a revised schedule and discuss any necessary adjustments to the cost.

Yes! Passive Houses are designed to be:

• 90% more efficient in heating and cooling compared to standard homes.
• Healthier, with filtered air circulation reducing pollutants, allergens, and mould.
• Cost-effective, with drastically reduced energy bills.

Additionally, Passive Houses increase the value and longevity of your property.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris.Early collaboration with Warvena Construction ensures:

• Your design aligns with your budget and goals.
• Potential construction challenges are identified and resolved early.
• A smoother, faster build process with fewer delays or surprises.

By working with us from concept to completion, you benefit from expert advice, realistic costing, and efficient project management.

When building a home, choosing between a timber frame and traditional masonry construction is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Both methods have distinct benefits, but timber frames are increasingly gaining popularity, especially for high-end, sustainable, and energy-efficient homes. Here's an in-depth comparison highlighting the advantages of timber frames, particularly in relation to thermal bridging, cost, and speed versus masonry construction.

1. Speed of Construction

Timber Frame:

• Timber frame construction is significantly faster than masonry. Components are typically prefabricated off-site, allowing for rapid assembly once delivered to the construction site.
• This reduces on-site labour and shortens the construction timeline, which is particularly beneficial in Cornwall’s variable weather conditions where prolonged construction can face delays.
• Timber frames can often be erected within weeks, allowing follow-up trades (plumbing, electrical, etc.) to start much earlier.

Masonry:

• Masonry construction, such as brick or blockwork, requires more time because it’s built on-site layer by layer.
• Weather delays, such as rain or frost, can significantly impact masonry timelines, particularly in Cornwall’s coastal climate.

Winner: Timber Frame – The quicker build process leads to lower labour costs and faster project delivery.

If you're unsure where to start or who to engage for your build, Warvena Construction can guide you in assembling the perfect team to bring your vision to life. Selecting the right architect, planning consultant, and engineers is crucial to ensuring your project runs smoothly and achieves your goals. Here's how we can help: Architect: Turning Your Vision into Reality

Not all architects specialise in the same type of project. Whether you're looking for a contemporary holiday home, a sustainable Passive House, or a traditional aesthetic, Warvena can connect you with architects whose style, expertise, and approach align with your vision. We'll also ensure they’re experienced in working within Cornwall’s unique planning landscape.

Yes, we are fully licensed and insured. Warvena Construction holds the necessary qualifications and is registered with relevant UK regulatory bodies. We also carry comprehensive insurance, including public liability and employer’s liability insurance, to protect both our clients and our workforce throughout the duration of the project.

Absolutely! We pride ourselves on the quality of our work, and we’re happy to provide references from previous clients. We also have a portfolio of completed projects available on our website, showcasing a range of residential, commercial, and bespoke developments. If you’d like to see examples or speak with a past client, we can arrange that for you.

Safety is a top priority at Warvena Construction. We adhere to strict health and safety protocols on all of our sites, in line with UK regulations. Our team undergoes regular safety training, and we conduct site risk assessments before commencing work. Additionally, we ensure the appropriate safety equipment is used, and we follow safe working practices to protect both our employees and clients.

Sustainability is at the heart of our ethos. While every home we build incorporates eco-friendly elements, the level of sustainability depends on your preferences and budget.

We work closely with you to determine which sustainable features best suit your goals.

Yes, we collaborate with talented local landscape designers to provide stunning exteriors that enhance your home’s aesthetic. Whether it’s garden design, patios, or driveways, we can seamlessly integrate landscaping into your project.

Design changes are common, and we maintain a flexible approach to accommodate them. Our aim is to be as transparent with extras or changes, but we try to nail the specification with the clients before we start on site, If changes arise

Any changes are:

• Fully discussed with you in advance, we offer a quoting service or cost plus service for extra’s, these then are reported each month with out valuation dates aligned with a cost plan & tracker to keep an eye on your end cost to complete
• Larger changes will Incorporated into the timeline and budget with your approval, often is the case that a client makes a decision without being give the full implication, we don’t operate that way, we will ensure you are fully briefed on decisions before and during the construction process.

• Check for Accreditations
• • Look for memberships in professional bodies like:
  • • Federation of Master Builders (FMB)
    • TrustMark (government-endorsed)
    • NHBC (National House Building Council) for 10-year warranties.
  • Verify memberships directly on their websites (e.g., FMB).
• Research Reviews and Reputation
• • Check independent review sites like Trustpilot, Checkatrade, or Rated People.
  • Visit their website or social media for testimonials and project updates.
  • Look for local recommendations via forums or community groups.
• Ask About Past Projects
• • Request a portfolio of completed projects similar to your own.
  • Visit a previous build to inspect quality and speak to past clients.
• Ensure Local Experience
• • Builders familiar with your area will understand local planning authorities, building regulations, and trusted suppliers.
• Verify Trading History
• • Use Companies House to confirm how long they’ve been in business and check for red flags like recent name changes.
  • Ask for financial references from suppliers to confirm stability.
• Check Insurance and Guarantees
• • Verify they hold:
  • • Public Liability Insurance (covers property damage).
    • Employer’s Liability Insurance (covers workers).
    • Structural warranties like NHBC or Build-Zone for new builds.
• Request a Detailed Quote and Contract
• • Ensure quotes include a full cost breakdown, timelines, and payment schedules.
  • Sign a clear, written contract outlining scope of work, guarantees, and dispute resolution.

By taking these steps, you can confidently select a reliable builder for your project.

At Warvena Construction, we believe that exceptional homes require exceptional craftsmanship. That’s why we employ most of our tradespeople directly, rather than relying heavily on subcontractors. This approach ensures we maintain our high standards, deliver seamless finishes, and provide an enjoyable building experience for our clients.

1. Superior Quality Control By having our own in-house team, we guarantee consistency, precision, and attention to detail at every stage. Our tradespeople work to Warvena’s exacting standards, ensuring every aspect of your build reflects the luxury you expect.
2. A Smoother, Stress-Free Process With our team fully integrated, we avoid delays caused by subcontractor scheduling conflicts. This allows us to deliver on time and create a positive, collaborative building experience.
3. Expertise and Accountability We invest in ongoing training for our tradespeople, equipping them with advanced skills in sustainable building, Passive House techniques, and the latest materials. This ensures your home is crafted by skilled professionals committed to excellence.
4. Clear Communication and Reliability Our team shares Warvena’s values of honesty, respect, and integrity. By working together consistently, we ensure clear communication and a shared focus on delivering the best results.