What to Expect When Working With an Agricultural Building Contractor in Cheshire

If you are planning a new farm building, extension or refurbishment, your choice of agricultural building contractor in Cheshire is vital. 

A well-managed project saves time, avoids costly mistakes, and results in a building that works properly for years to come. But if you have not undertaken a project like this before, it can be difficult to know what the different stages look like.

Here’s what you can realistically expect when working with an experienced agricultural building contractor in Cheshire, from the initial conversation through to final handover when hiring a team like AC Jackson.

Understanding Your Requirements

A reputable agricultural building contractor in Cheshire will take the time to understand how the building will be used, rather than jumping straight to sizes and prices.

At AC Jackson, this initial stage focuses on listening. Whether you need a livestock building, grain store, dairy unit, workshop or an extension to an existing structure, the aim is to understand your operation, access requirements, future plans, and budget expectations. This is also where site constraints such as ground conditions, access routes and nearby buildings are discussed.

We will always ask the necessary questions. What machinery needs to fit inside? How will animals move through the building? Do you expect to expand in the future? These details shape the design from the outset.

A Site Visit and Practical Assessment

A site visit is a key part of working with a professional agricultural building contractor in Cheshire. This allows potential issues to be identified early, before drawings or costs are finalised.

During the site visit, contractors like AC Jackson assess ground levels, drainage, access for construction vehicles, and how the new building will sit within the existing farm layout. This practical knowledge is especially important in Cheshire, where ground conditions and estate requirements can vary significantly from site to site.

This stage helps avoid delays later and ensures that what is designed can actually be built efficiently.

Planning Support

We appreciate that for many farmers, planning permission can feel daunting. A contractor who understands local planning requirements can make this stage far less stressful. While not every agricultural building needs full planning permission, having clear drawings prepared by professionals helps the process run smoothly.

AC Jackson can provide building elevation drawings to support planning applications, if required. 

A Clear Quotation and Details on the Project

Before work starts, you should receive a clear and detailed quotation. A reliable agricultural building contractor in Cheshire will explain exactly what is included, from steel fabrication through to erection and associated groundworks.

AC Jackson is known for providing complete packages, which reduces the risk of unexpected extras appearing halfway through the project. This clarity allows you to compare like for like and plan your budget with confidence.

It is also the stage where timescales are agreed. Knowing when work will start, how long it will take, and how it fits around your farming operation is essential.

Design 

Once the brief is agreed, the design phase begins. An experienced agricultural building contractor in Cheshire should offer more than a standard off-the-shelf layout.

AC Jackson provides bespoke steel-framed building designs, tailored to the exact needs of the customer. Their in-house design team prepares detailed drawings ready for both fabrication and installation. 

Groundworks and Preparation

Groundworks are often one of the most critical parts of an agricultural building project. Poor preparation can lead to long-term issues with drainage, stability, and access.

An established agricultural building contractor in Cheshire will either manage or carry out these works as part of the overall project. AC Jackson’s approach ensures that foundations, drainage, and concrete works are completed correctly and in line with the building design.

By handling this stage in-house, delays caused by third parties are minimised, and responsibility is clear.

Steel Fabrication and Erection

Once groundwork is complete, the steel frame is fabricated to the agreed specification. Steel-framed agricultural buildings are popular due to their durability, speed of erection, and wide, clear spans.

AC Jackson manufactures and erects its steel frames using experienced teams who understand agricultural environments. Erection is typically quick and efficient, helping to keep disruption to a minimum.

Cladding, roof lights, doors and ventilation features are installed according to the agreed design, ensuring the building is practical as well as robust.

Communication Throughout the Project

One of the most overlooked aspects of working with an agricultural building contractor in Cheshire is communication. You should expect regular updates and a clear point of contact throughout the project.

AC Jackson works closely with customers from start to finish, ensuring any questions or small adjustments are dealt with promptly. This hands-on approach is particularly valuable on working farms, where flexibility and timing matter.

Completion and Aftercare

Once finished, the building should meet the agreed specification and be ready for use. A professional contractor will walk through the finished structure with you and address any final points.

AC Jackson’s long-standing reputation has been built on quality workmanship and customer satisfaction, with many repeat clients across Cheshire and beyond. Their forward-thinking approach focuses on delivering buildings that continue to perform long after the project is finished.

If you’re ready to kick off your project in 2026, simply contact our friendly team today.