How we build
From plot to keys: how building with ASSA works
Building a house involves several parties: the architect, the câmara, the bank and the builder. Here is the order, who does what and what you bring.
Durations below come from public sources or are still to be confirmed S‑3. 12–24 months from plot to keys is common (Santander). At ASSA, contract to keys for a 150 to 220 m² house: 18 to 24 months.
Six steps from plot to keys
Plot check and estimate
- What happens
- We look at the PDM, access, utilities and slope. You receive a cost range.
- Who
- ASSA
- Duration
- Days
- What you bring
- Caderneta predial, certidão, location plan
Architecture and specialty projects
- What happens
- Architecture and specialty projects: structure, water, electricity, thermal.
- Who
- Your architect or one we work with S‑11
- Duration
- 2–4 months S‑3
- What you bring
- The house brief: bedrooms, area, budget
Licensing with the câmara
- What happens
- Filing with the câmara and following the process. DL 108/2026 changed the rules; we check your case.
- Who
- The architect, with the câmara
- Duration
- Varies by câmara
- What you bring
- Power of attorney, if you cannot sign
Quote and contract
- What happens
- With the project and bill of quantities we send the quote. The terms are agreed in the contract.
- Who
- ASSA and the owner
- Duration
- S‑5 working days for the quote
- What you bring
- Approved project and bill of quantities
Build
- What happens
- Foundations, structure, roof, services and finishes.
- Who
- ASSA, with IMPIC alvará and liability insurance
- Duration
- 18 to 24 months, contract to keys (150 to 220 m²)
- What you bring
- Site visits whenever you like S‑7
Handover and warranty
- What happens
- Final inspection, snag fixing and handover of the keys. By law, the builder is liable for defects in the work for 5 years from handover (Portuguese Civil Code, art. 1225).
- Who
- ASSA and the client
- Duration
- Days
- What you bring
- The inspection checklist
Payment by stages
You pay in three instalments, each after a signed record of the work completed. The total price and the deadline are in the contract. Which construction stages each instalment covers: S‑7.
| Instalment | Share | When it is paid |
|---|---|---|
| 1st instalment | 40% | After the signed record of work completed |
| 2nd instalment | 40% | After the signed record of work completed |
| 3rd instalment | 20% | After the signed record of work completed |
Construction credit
With a construction loan the bank releases money in 3 to 6 tranches, against progress on site (autos de medição). It is slower and needs more paperwork than a purchase loan.
What can go wrong
Changes in scope
New requests halfway through change the price and timing. They are agreed separately and go ahead only on a priced estimate.
Weather
Prolonged rain delays foundations and roofing. We tell you in writing and adjust the plan.
Licence delays
They depend on the câmara. We tell you what is pending and from whom.
Let’s start with your plot
Where are you now?
Tell us where you are, and we will tell you the next step.
Free, no obligation. S‑13
After your request, Sergii calls you within S‑5 · N working hours.
