How to choose a pre-owned modular building Buildings, Maintenance, Refurbishment & Design
8. Find out how robust the buildings are
Check the supplier uses only steel-framed modules, which are generally more durable than timber and have greater longevity.
9. Look for independent approvals
Either the supplier or the original manufacturer of the building should have independent endorsements for quality, fire safety, thermal performance, acoustics and insurance. Check for Local Authority Building Control approval and BBA certification.
10. Assess building regulations compliance
Ensure the buildings are Part L2A 2010 compliant to avoid unforeseen costs and delays, and that you will be supplied with an Energy Performance Certificate on completion.
M
ike Williams, Managing Director of Foremans Relocatable Building Systems, supplier of pre-owned Portakabin buildings, provides some practical tips to help schools and local authorities avoid the most common pitfalls when procuring a recycled modular building. “There are some clear benefits to choosing a pre-owned modular building, but not all suppliers are the same and not all will be able to provide all the services required.
The advantages of the recycled modular building approach include programme times reduced by up to 70%, less disruption to teaching, less impact on the environment and improved value. This is a highly cost- effective alternative, which could mean that for the same budget, you can benefit from a bigger building compared to new a build.
1. Look for design flexibility
Will the building meet your specific project requirements – such as large open plan areas, heavily-serviced facilities, layout changes and the opportunity to extend or reduce the building in size at a later date, to address a school’s ongoing needs?
2. What services are available?
Some modular suppliers will look after every element of the project, from planning permission to ground works and fitting out – others will simply deliver the building.
3. Look at other applications
To see what’s possible, visit a recently completed project and assess the quality of the supplier’s buildings and services first hand. Always obtain references and speak to past customers.
4. Check the supplier’s service credentials
Amongst other considerations, think about: does the supplier have the expertise to advise on the optimum module configuration for the project? Do they have experience of working on school sites? Can building installation be timed for school holidays? Also check financial stability – this is critical in the current climate.
5. What are the supplier’s criteria for purchasing stock? Only buildings from manufacturers certified to ISO 9001 should be sourced, to ensure the modules are of sufficiently high quality. Ask whether the original building manufacturer is still trading, because you may need to obtain specifications from its technical department. Ideally modules should all have serial numbers and be fully traceable.
6. Does the supplier have a dedicated acquisitions team? This means they are continually replenishing stock and will be able to assure you of continuity of supply.
7. Health and safety commitments
The modules should be delivered and installed in accordance with stringent health and safety standards. Contractors should be trained and accredited in line with current best practice, ideally the Construction Skills Certification Scheme.
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www.education-today.co.uk
Yorkon’s revolutionary new off-site building system
O
ff-site construction specialist, Yorkon, has craned the final modules into position on site at Cambourne Village College as part of a major project with Kier Construction to build Cambridgeshire’s first new secondary school in 30 years. The scheme is the first application of the new Yorkon off-site building system.
The building system has reduced the number of steel-framed modules to just 60, providing a more sustainable solution and reducing the number of vehicle movements and work on site. There will also be fewer internal columns to facilitate space planning and any future required reconfiguration to meet changing local needs.
Each 18m long module was installed with a concrete floor already in place, providing a robust finish and good acoustic performance for a demanding school environment.
The Yorkon building system has the widest range of module sizes currently available from any off-site manufacturer in the UK.
u0845 2000 123
uwww.yorkon.info/newsystem March 2013
11. Consider the level of refurbishment you need Do you require a completely refurbished and clad building or just cleaning and redecoration?
12. Consider the long-term
Some suppliers offer a buy-back option if the building becomes surplus to requirements. Having a disposal strategy in place for when the building is no longer required can provide peace of mind.
13. How to compare tenders
Make sure you compare cost estimates that are like for like and that you are looking for best value – reduced risk, fast completion, no disruption to teaching, safety and quality.“
u01964 544344
uwww.foremansbuildings.info
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