How we supported property investor client's flat redevelopment project
THE PROJECT
We were approached by the architect on this project Kathy Basheva, of Kathy Basheva Architecture on behalf of their property investor client.
The client lived in a flat in West Kensington, and had bought 2 flats in the same, and adjacent buildings. As a busy professional who spent a lot of his time abroad, he was unable to visit the site regularly. He therefore needed someone to oversee the projects and act on his behalf .
THE CHALLENGE
This project involved carrying out renovation works to 2 existing flats, which included adding new bathrooms and remodelling the spaces. One of the flats was also extended upwards to create a new top floor which included a new master ensuite and terraced seating area.
We were appointed to act as Contract Administrator for the project. The build team consisted of a contractor who was overseeing the build but who had sub-contracted the actual works to another builder. This is an unusual situation which added some complexities to logistics of the build. Our QS team were therefore heavily involved, advising on how best to manage this situation. Along the way we provided contractual advice and helped with a number of issues. In renovation projects of this type it is not unusual to face the danger of delays which can occur as a result of changes to the specifications versus the original contract for example. It is our role to help minimise issues such as these.
THE SOLUTION
Our project manager, Alistair, liaised with the client and the building team, answering queries and checking that the project was adhering to the programme. He visited the site on a fortnightly basis to check progress, and assess the accuracy of the works as well as carry out valuations. Together with our QS team he helped check the invoices and advised our client on how best to tackle and resolve issues such as defects, dealing with extensions of time and faulty workmanship.
THE RESULT
Complex projects of this nature can be challenging at times. Although there were many issues to resolve along the way, as you can see the development of the flats was extremely successful.
In fact, our property investor client sold one of the flats within a week of it going on the market and quickly rented out the other flat. We hope to work with him again very soon!
CLPM Services used by our client:-
Contract Administration and Monthly Cost reporting.