Project
Minor works project to repair a defective flat roof to a parade of shops.
Defects were identified following a request to investigate a flat roof leak into a shop unit. It was discovered that the roof joists had split and decayed, causing the roof to sag and that immediate repair was required, in addition to the repair of the leaking roof covering. Surveyor services to specify the repair, obtain tenders and manage the works were provided.
Challenges
- The shop retailer could not close their business during the works, yet the structure of the roof over part of the shop had to be removed and replaced.
- The most convenient time to undertake the works were in January and February, despite the risk of work delays due to bad weather.
Solution
The defect analysis report undertaken identified the underlying and more significant structural issue within the flat roof. This may have not been recognised if the roof leak had simply been patched over without investigation of the cause.
A means of temporarily altering the shop layout and adaptation of the electrical and plumbing services was devised to ensure the shop could remain open during the works. This also ensures that the construction works area was fully separated from the retailer and their customers to avoid health and safety risks.
Detailed planning and sequencing of works tasks with the contractor ensured the works were completed meticulously to schedule and that contingency options were available if there was particularly bad winter weather.
