Business Details
33 Years
experience
Know what your project should cost, before you commit
Derek Gough Associates (DGA) is a RICS-regulated and ISO 9001-accredited practice providing chartered quantity surveying, contract administration and project management services. We specialise in high-end private residential properties, including renovations, extensions and new-build homes. Operating from Knutsford in Cheshire and central London, with an expanding presence in the Midlands, we provide independent professional advice throughout residential projects. Our approach combines detailed cost planning, transparent financial management and practical guidance, helping clients understand expenditure and maintain control over their budgets. We also provide fund monitoring for lenders and whole-life cost and carbon assessments.For domestic projects valued up to £1 million, our DGA Plus service offers a self-led cost management toolkit designed for RIBA Stages 1 to 3. Homeowners and architects use region-specific templates to develop realistic budgets, supported by scheduled reviews with a chartered quantity surveyor. These sessions identify potential omissions, assess financial risks and inform decisions about specifications and project scope. For larger or more complex developments, we provide comprehensive quantity surveying and project management, including tender documentation, contractor selection, contract administration, valuations and final accounts. Our regulated status, audited quality procedures and experience in prime residential property underpin our commitment to independent advice and clear cost control.
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
From the outset of a proposed development, we advise on practical feasibility, scheme suitability and likely project timescales. We also help clients consider design team appointments and the most appropriate arrangements for procuring building contractors. Our Quantity Surveyors contribute to preliminary construction cost estimates and complete project financial forecasts, including client costs, associated fees and VAT.
Project Management
From project oversight to the co-ordination of designers and contractors, we assume full management responsibility. We represent your interests by serving as your trusted eyes and ears on the ground. Continuous performance monitoring allows us to assess progress against time and cost expectations. Our approach maintains a clear focus on achieving the highest standards of quality.
Client Representation
We recognise that some clients welcome extensive involvement in construction, whilst others prefer to delegate responsibility. Our approach accommodates both, ensuring that individual requirements guide the process. Where representation is required, we coordinate with family offices and in-house teams and report on progress. Clients can remain actively involved in design approvals and choosing materials.
Contract Administration
Acting on your behalf, we undertake the formal administration of contracts with the Contractor. We monitor adherence to contractual procedures while maintaining effective management of information throughout the process. Changes affecting the agreed scope of works are carefully captured and addressed. We subsequently ensure that the necessary instructions are provided in line with contractual requirements.
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
Raj Kalghatgi
Jan 25, 2026
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Will Cheung promptly addressed my inquiries, even going above and beyond by responding on his day off to provide the requested details.
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
Mario De Landro
Apr 08, 2024
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We are a civil and basement contractor working with Derek Gough Associates on a project where they are providing project management and quantity surveying services. Their professionalism and expertise have made the collaboration seamless. They are organised, communicative, and a pleasure to work with. Thank you Ed and the team!
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.
Alex Leslie
Jun 29, 2023
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Mike provided an amazing service. Straight to the point and exactly what was needed. Thank you