Façade design reviews, before it is built.

What we review

• Design validation: architectural and specialist subcontractor drawings, details, specifications and calculations, checked for performance, buildability and coordination with other building systems.
• Compliance validation: designs and installations checked against the Building Regulations, including Approved Document B and the combustibility requirements for relevant buildings, and against industry guidance such as CWCT.
• Specification writing: clear performance and workmanship specifications that set out materials, tolerances, testing and quality requirements for contractors.
• Tender management and review: technical and commercial comparison of contractor bids, clarifications and recommendations, so you choose the right specialist.

Why it matters

Many of the façade defects we investigate on completed buildings can be traced back to the design stage: an unresolved interface, an unsuitable product, a detail that cannot be built as drawn, or a specification that leaves too much open to interpretation. An independent review finds these while they are still cheap to change.

On higher-risk buildings, the design must be detailed and demonstrably compliant before the Building Safety Regulator will approve construction at Gateway 2, which puts even more weight on getting the façade design right early.

Who we work for

• Developers and clients who want independent assurance on their design team's work.
• Funders and purchasers who need comfort before committing to a forward-funded or forward-purchased scheme.
• Building owners planning recladding, remediation or refurbishment.

Joined up with what comes next

The same team can follow the design through to site with development monitoring and project management, so what was reviewed on paper is what gets built.

Frequently asked questions

At what stage should a façade design review happen?

As early as possible, ideally while the design is still developing and again before tender. We can also review specialist contractor designs and installation details before work starts on site.

Do you check compliance with the Building Regulations?

Yes. We check envelope designs against the Building Regulations, including fire safety requirements in Approved Document B, and against relevant industry guidance.

Can you write the façade specification?

Yes. We write performance and workmanship specifications covering materials, tolerances, testing and quality requirements.

Can you help us choose a contractor?

Yes. We review tenders technically and commercially, raise clarifications and recommend the most suitable contractor.

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