Articles

Defect Inspection

Due to immediate health and safety concerns, the initial inspection was undertaken using a mobile access tower, and the surrounding area at street level was temporarily closed to the public. During this inspection, a contractor was instructed to carefully remove sections of ornate detailing that were loose and at risk of falling.

 

Once the unstable render had been removed, a full safety scaffold was erected to facilitate a detailed investigation. We carried out a comprehensive inspection of the façade and issued a defect report outlining our findings and recommended remedial works. We also advised the client to appoint a structural engineer to assess whether any structural movement was occurring to the front elevation.

 

The structural engineer’s assessment confirmed that no structural movement was present, and no structural remedial works were required.

 

 

Project Works

Following the defect inspection, we worked closely with the client and managing agent to ensure all risks were mitigated and that the site setup did not disrupt the ground‑floor retail tenants.

 

SHW was appointed as Contract Administrator to prepare a full specification for the external maintenance and improvement works. Given the urgency of the project, we recommended a negotiated tender with a single contractor to reduce programme timescales.

 

As the property lies within a conservation area, it was essential that the remedial works preserved the existing streetscape. All interventions were therefore carefully considered to ensure original features were retained or reinstated, and that traditional materials were used throughout.

 

Scope of Works

• Reforming the ornate cornice details

• Rebuilding the parapet wall

• Repairing timber sash windows

• Replacing and redressing stone detailing

• Stabilising and redecorating the external façade

• Installing lead weathering details to cills and cornice features

 

Outcome

The external refurbishment works were completed to a high standard, preserving the architectural character of the conservation area. The rapid initial response enabled the client to understand the extent of the required works early on and communicate effectively with tenants throughout the process.

 

Ashley Reuby, SHW associate confirmed that both SHW and the client were extremely pleased with the outcome. The remedial works have significantly enhanced the building’s performance and contributed positively to the appearance of the surrounding conservation area.