Flagship Projects

• Rope Inspection & Repair
• Rope Access Tower Block Inspections
• Rope Access Inspect & Repair the Tallest Free-Standing Structure in the UK
• Rope Access Safety Work to Buildings for the Health & Safety Executive
• Abseiling skills used to clean Royal Albert Hall Organ
  
• Delamination NDT to Jet Engine Test Facility For Rolls-Royce
• Inspection & Investigation Works, 65 Tower blocks London Borough Council
• Investigation To Glazed Units and Fixings, Prada Museum, Madrid
• Paint and Coating Condition, Flood Light Towers, Blackpool FC
• Investigation Of Brick Slips and Brick Panels On 64 Tower Blocks

Inspection & Investigation Works, 65 Tower blocks London Borough Council

HRS Services Ltd has carried out an investigation of 65 multi-storey blocks for a London Borough during the last three years. All received a safety check, removal of loose spalling concrete and documented visual inspection. Sample blocks were structurally surveyed and detailed tests and investigations were carried out to assess the following; number, type, density and effectiveness of wall ties; cover, carbonation, chloride and cement content of concrete elements; fixity of panels; condition of DPCs; make up of roof coverings of ties. Full condition reports with remedial recommendations, including budget costing were prepared with the objective of achieving a life span of 40 years. The in-depth investigation results were taken as representative of all blocks, verified by a visual check of each building for any serious defects. In this way a strategic overview was developed that prioritised all 65 blocks and their repairs. Long term decisions for maintenance/repair strategies were linked to housing department needs and criteria so that a coherent way forward for the portfolio was established.

The first full repair contracts were completed in late 2000, with final costs within 1% of budget - a real success!

Similar large scale contracts have been carried out for other Councils and Housing Authorities across the country and many of these represent repeat contracts over a number of years. To date almost 1000 housing blocks have been inspected with concrete and brick work investigations carried out on many.

Accurate survey data has never been more valuable to local authorities, now required to demonstrate that housing stock is managed to best value principles. Well-informed decisions target capital projects at properties with the highest residual life and correctly prioritise planned maintenance. The cost of obtaining this information for typical blocks is low, with safety checks costing typically less than £2k and full investigations around £2-6 k (including final reports) per block, depending on the amount of testing and investigation work.

Armed with repair schedules, accurate budget figures and verification that similar properties are in like condition, whole life costs can be built up that support a coherent housing strategy. Strong plans also give weight to government fund applications. Key to such reliable planning is confidence in the base data. HRS Services Ltd are highly skilled in providing reports that are detailed, correct and easier to understand.