Our Process of Working with Architects and Designers
30th June 2023
At Wilkinson Construction Consultants, acting as building inspectors, we apply our vast knowledge and experience of building regulations and codes to ensure that every building project complies with them. This includes site preparation, fire exits, accessibility, ventilation, and water sanitation, to name a few.
This means we do a lot of work with architects & designers during the initial design stage and work with them the whole way through the tender stage, build, until the final sign-off. Our involvement in the early stages of a project is imperative to ensure compliance, save time and money; we want to help make the process of Building Regulation compliance as smooth and hassle-free as possible. Leave the problem-solving and expertise to us!
We help architects bring their visions to life while complying with building regulations. We review architectural proposals and take a deep dive into architectural drawings to identify any potential compliance issues. We attend regular site inspections during the build and finally, issue a certificate of compliance for the project.
Our Approach to Supporting Architects & Designers – The Earlier, The Better!
In a post-Grenfell world, with the added responsibilities that come as Principal Designer (BC) it is important to have a trusted partner alongside you through the whole design and build stage. We have enhanced our offering and support architects and designers in several ways:
- We have introduced a pre-app fire safety review to respond to demand from planners for planning stage fire safety statements on even minor domestic projects.
- One of the biggest difficulties architects face is getting answers to key compliance questions in a timely manner, often before the client is ready to commit to appointing a building inspector and paying the full plan check fee. Therefore we have a limited number of priority subscriptions whereby architects pay a nominal monthly subscription to gain access to fast responses to email questions and/or a regular monthly dial in workshop where we are available to answer any questions that the team may have – like an interactive CPD session.
“RAP Interiors have used Wilkinson Construction for all their building control requirements over many years. We pay a monthly retainer that enables us to contact the Wilkinson Construction team for assistance throughout the bid, tender, design and construction stage. Ensuring compliancy in all our projects is a top priority for everyone at RAP Interiors and with the regulations frequently updated, we can rely on Wilkinson’s to advise us across the sectors”
Alice Carr, Designer, RAP.
- We offer a full plan check and tracker report on every project no matter how large or small. Whilst the concept of a compliance tracker has been common on large projects, it is fairly unique to have these on small domestic projects. This is a huge benefit to Architects as they can see at a glance how the project is progressing, and what information is still required to be submitted.
The trackers are updated after every plan package submission, and after every site visit too. That way the design team are kept aware of any issues, or deviations on site as well as knowing when a package is required for the site team to build too.
If you can see the value in these extra services and would like to experience our award-winning service for yourself then don’t hesitate to get in touch today.
“Very thorough and great input upfront to inform the design so we could build it right the first time. Also very helpful in resolving where the client’s design conflicted with requirements of the regulation, so we could keep everybody happy.”
Bryony Levermore, UC Build
Other benefits to Architects & Designers include:
As an architect, there are a wide host of benefits to working with approved building inspectors, particularly if we are involved during concept creation:
Speedy Service
Building inspectors are highly knowledgeable when it comes to building regulations. We are the experts in our field. This helps architects to make educated decisions. Having the correct information can really help speed up the process, especially working from the early proposal stages.
Flexibility
We work on projects which are innovative and have a lot of intricate details. This requires us to be flexible to achieve your creative objective whilst still ensuring that the project is fully compliant. We do all this as well as embracing new emerging regulations such as digitisation and the Golden Thread.
“I found your approach to business ethics outstanding, nothing to you is too much trouble, and your knowledge and expertise are second to none”
Abbyad Architects
Support & Peace of Mind
Appointing a building inspector from the early stages can give the architect peace of mind. It allows them to develop their creative concept knowing that they have the most accurate and up-to-date guidance. Building regulations can change often for example, we have already seen changes this year, including those to Approved Document L and Approved Document O, as well as many others. It’s hard for architects to keep up to date with all these changes. This is why a building inspector is so important – it’s our job to stay on top of these changes and advise architects on new developments.
“Over our three offices MEB have worked with Wilkinson on a wide range of projects from domestic scale extensions up to complex new build medical centres. Wilkinson have a proactive approach that enables us to develop our designs with confidence. We have always experienced excellent service and their specialist knowledge of the statutory regulations is invaluable.”
MEB Design Ltd Architects
Cost Saving
Engaging with a building inspector before important decisions are made will help to save time and effort in focussing on a concept that breaches building codes and building regulations. Finding out that there are compliance issues after plans have been submitted can hugely delay the project and cost more money to have the design redone.
Here at Wilkinsons, we want to help architects feel confident in creating safe and fully compliant buildings.
Take a look at our domestic and commercial approved inspection projects.
Ready to appoint us? Get in touch.
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