Envelope investigation
Urbanise was engaged by one of the UK’s largest student accommodation providers to undertake significant opening-up and close-up works across multiple sites to facilitate fire compliance investigations. Following the introduction of new cladding and façade legislation in December 2022, we were chosen as an expert in the field to carry out these highly critical investigation works.
The project formed part of the EWS1 review process to confirm that an external wall system on residential buildings has been assessed for safety by a suitable expert, in line with government guidance. Due to the sensitivity of the project, we worked under a non-disclosure agreement.
Investigating multiple cladding types
We deployed multiple teams simultaneously at a number of buildings across the UK to meet the time constraints applied by our client.
We worked across a variety of cladding types and engaged with tried and trusted supply chain partners to ensure we could provide access to all the key areas of each building. We also ensured we closed up each area to the satisfaction of the client.
Project challenges
Geographical challenges aside, the biggest challenge we faced was undertaking the works whilst ensuring the disruption to residents in each of the buildings was kept to an absolute minimum. We managed this by implementing a robust communication strategy, along with detailed methodologies.
Leading to other schemes
The project was successfully completed in autumn 2022 and we’re engaging with the same project managers on other schemes going forward.
