Design & Specification Flashcards
1
Q
How were the RIBA plan of works stages represented in the CPD events you attended?
A
The CPD sessions covered each of the eight stages, ranging from Strategic Definition to In Use.
Through these sessions, I was able to gain an understanding of how to apply this framework in my projects.
2
Q
Can you explain how you interpret a client’s brief in order to meet their project requirements?
A
- I aim to understand their vision and requirements thoroughly.
- I arrange meetings with the client to discuss and clarify their objectives, preferences, and budget.
- After taking all these factors into consideration, I develop a design which best meets the client’s project requirements.
3
Q
Can you explain to me any challenges you have faced when obtaining a client brief?
A
- One challenge was when a client gave a vague brief for a residential project due to not having enough information on specific user requirements.
- I overcame this by conducting a joint MS teams call with the care provision and client to gain detailed insights into their requirements and expectations.
4
Q
What statutory requirements do you consider during the design phase?
A
- Building regulations to ensure safety of the design together with accessibility and sustainability.
- Planning permission to ensure the designs do not negatively impact on the surrounding area.
5
Q
What’s the process for ensuring a design has received necessary approval like planning permission and building reg compliance?
A
I undertake pre-application consultation with the local planning authority early in the design stage.
Once the design is completed, I then make sure statutory procedures for submitting the applications are provided by producing the necessary drawings and documentation.
6
Q
What are the H&S regulations within the design stage?
A
The Construction Design and Management Regulations 2015.
7
Q
How do H&S regulations impact the design stage?
A
Health and Safety regulations significantly impact the design stage by considering various factors, such as:
- Fire safety
- Ventilation
- Hazardous materials.
Failure to incorporate these elements into the design could lead to serious health and safety risks.
8
Q
How do you ensure your designs do not negatively impact the local aesthetics?
A
To ensure my designs do not negatively impact the local aesthetics, I conduct thorough site analysis and research on local history, culture and architecture.
This helps to create designs that resonate with the surroundings without compromising on functionality, all while adding value to the local landscape.
9
Q
Can you give me an example of how you made design decisions keeping safety, aesthetics and local requirements in mind?
A
In my designs, I aim to achieve a balance between safety, aesthetics and local requirements.
For instance, while designing the internal and external alterations at Cherry Meadows I incorporated wide entrance doors with ramped access.
At the same time, I was mindful of creating a visually pleasant environment for the residents without commercialising the aesthetics.
10
Q
In your experience what is the biggest challenge in meeting all statutory requirements while designing?
A
The biggest challenge in meeting all statutory requirements while designing is to incorporate these regulations without compromising on the aesthetics and functionality of the design.
However, with pre-design research and a collaborative approach, this challenge can be successfully managed.
11
Q
How do you ensure that your design process is compliant with the RIBA Plan of Works?
A
Review the design against the strategic brief and the draft design against the construction brief to ensure compatibility.
12
Q
What is the RIBA Plan of works?
A
– Introduced by the Royal Institution Building Architecture.
– Outlining the process of a construction project from the initial appointment of the project team (strategic definition) through to the building being used (Use).
– This helps to ensure that each stage is completed accurately and efficiently.
13
Q
What are the RIBA stages?
A
0 – Strategic Definition
1 – Preparation and Briefing
2 – Concept Design:
3 – Spatial Coordination:
4 – Technical Design:
5 – Construction:
6 – Handover:
7 – Use:
14
Q
Can you explain the RIBA stages in any more detail?
A
0 – Strategic Definition:
- Agree appointment with professional team.
1 – Preparation and Briefing:
- Develop the client brief.
2 – Concept Design:
- Design options /pre-app advise
3 – Spatial Coordination:
- Spatial coordination to consider user requirements and building services to allow for stage 4 to progress without any further iterations.
- Submit planning application.
4 – Technical Design:
- Submit Building Regulation application.
- F10 submitted to HSE.
5 – Construction:
- Compliance with planning permission & Building Regulations.
6 – Handover:
- Rectify any snags /Building handed over /Contract concluded.
- Issue Practical Completion Certificate.
7 – Use: The building is operated and maintained efficiently.
15
Q
What stages of RIBA relate to design?
A
Stage 2: Concept Design
Stage 3: Spatial Coordination
Stage 4: Technical Design
16
Q
What H&S regulations are required during the design phase?
A
Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015:
* Pre-Construction Information
* Construction Phase Plan
17
Q
What’s included in a specification document?
A
- Prelims
- External works
- Internal works
- M&E
- Summaries
18
Q
Give me an example a clients brief has impacted a specification document?
A
Whilst obtaining the client brief for the Cherry Meadow scheme – the client required each flat to be handed over separately.
However, the client was only familiar with JCT Minor Works contract which does not satisfy sectional completion.
19
Q
What are preliminaries?
A
Used to describe the project allowing for costs of items to complete but are not the work themselves (access, welfare)
20
Q
What are preambles?
A
Description of who’s involved in the project and the objectives.
21
Q
Does a building have to be compliant with building regs at all times?
A
No, there are several exemptions such as:
- Maintenance work
- Minor repairs
- Greenhouses (not used for retail)
- Some agricultural buildings (check with B Control)
- Temporary buildings (erected for less than 28 days)
I would always run this by Building Control if I was unsure.
22
Q
Bloomfield: How did you inspect the property to understand the construction and prepare a sketch of the existing layout?
A
I undertook a site visit to understand the property’s existing layout.
I took measurements of each room and then used CAD software to develop design proposals.
23
Q
What was the client brief for the residential refurbishment scheme in Bolton?
A
To carry out internal alterations to accommodate the needs of a disabled family member.
I carried out a feasibility study to investigate the possibility of a ground floor therapy room and accessible bathroom within the existing rear extension to the full width of the rear elevation.
24
Q
What documents did you consider for the works at Bloomfield?
A
Doc M: Access to and use of buildings.
BS8300: Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment.
The design satisfied Doc M and was tailored more towards the specific user needs given by the Occupational Therapist to allow for sufficient movement around the bath /changing tables and allow for a mobile hoist.
25
What were the specific needs of a disabled family member that the design had to accommodate?
To provide both the interior and exterior features to accommodate the wheelchair user.
I prepared floor plans, elevations, cross-sections, and detailed drawings of each room, including their utilities and fixtures.
26
How did the consultation with the Occupational Therapist influence the design and specification?
The consultation with the occupational therapist was crucial.
They provided advice on the specific needs and requirements for wheelchair user which influenced the final design and specification in terms of space planning, safety measures, and fixture selection.
This included a specialist bath that was required to suite the needs of carers to assists.
27
Bloomfield: What were some of the suggestions you gave your client during the design briefing?
I suggested areas where the client could save on budget without compromising the functionality and aesthetics. (utilising the existing space)
I also suggested they consider eco-friendly design elements such as censored lighting features.
28
Bloomfield: What sustainable features did you incorporate into the design and why?
- Energy-efficient appliances such as lighting and sensor taps within the bathroom.
- Insulation upgrades to the extension in accordance with Approved Document L.
29
Bloomfiedl; How were the final designs agreed upon with your client?
- The final designs were agreed upon following a design meeting with the client incorporating feedback from the Occupational Therapist.
- A finalised drawing was issued which was approved by the client.
30
Bloomfield; What process did you follow to prepare a detailed design and specification for the refurbishment scheme?
- I first started with a design based on the client's brief.
- I then incorporated the specification to incorporating details like materials, finishes, and fittings.
- The final design stage involved creating detailed construction documents with all technical specifications which were then shared with both the client and the construction team.
31
Was there any challenge in obtaining statutory consents with building control?
I did not face significant challenges in getting statutory approvals.
32
How many designs did you prepare for client consideration?
3 designs were prepared for client consideration.
- These differed in terms of layout.
33
How did you ensure that the design met the needs of the disabled family member?
By collaboratively working with all stake holders including the family and Occupational Therapist.
34
What was the existing construction of the Bloomfield property?
Cavity wall construction with suspended timber floors and pitched roof with concrete tiles.
Modern extension to the rear was built around 2010 with cavity wall construction and a suspended concrete (beam and block) floor.
35
How did the extension connect to the existing building?
Relatively modern construction so i would assume by using a stainless-steel wall starter system as the brickwork was not toothed to the original.
This joined the new walls to the existing masonry as apposed to a toothed connection eliminating potential problems of not achieving adequate mortar bonds.
36
What did you consider in relation to access & Sanitaryware?
Approved Document M: Volume 1 (Section 3: wheelchair user)
BS8300: Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment.
Occupational Therapist requirements.
37
Bloomfield; What did you consider in relation to sanitary facilites?
Approved Document M – for wheelchair accessible sanitary fittings:
- Basins maximum 850mm from finish floor level.
- Level access shower
BS8300
Spatial requirements set by the Occupational Therapist.
38
Can you explain in more detail what BS 8300 is?
Code of Practice: Considered best practice.
Providing guidelines and recommendations on how to design buildings and their surroundings to be accessible to all, including those with disabilities.
39
40
Bloomfield: What building regulations were applicable?
Part H: Drainage
Connections to existing drainage for rainwater good and sanitaryware.
Part F: Ventilation
- Extract to bathroom
Part M: Access to and use of buildings
- External ramps
- Internal door widths
41
Wynhill Bungalow: What were the complex needs of the tenant?
The tenant had autism with severe sensitivity issues - whilst in the bathroom for instance this increased emotions.
42
Wynhill Bungalow; what requirements were needed for the barricade doors?
The anti-barricade doors were supposed to have easy locking and unlocking mechanism and swing both ways to prevent the tenant barricading in a room to enable support staff to assists.
43
Wynhill Bungalow; What research did you do to ensure the correct specification of doors /bathroom facilities?
I primarily conducted an online research on various rehabilitaiton supplies websites.
I forwarded the proposed specification to the client and NHS for approval in accordance with the tenants needs.
44
Wynhill Bungalow; How did you ensure the proposal met all the tenants complex needs?
The proposal was designed keeping in mind the tenant’s requirements.
The specifications and layout were carefully detailed out to ensure safety for the tenant.
The client and relevant stakeholders signed off on the design prior to tender.
45
Wynhill Bungalow; Upon completion, how did the bungalow refurbishment serve the complex needs of the tenant?
The refurbished bungalow significantly improved the quality of life for the tenant.
He had a space that was tailor-made for him and he was very appreciative of the efforts made.
46
Old Greaves Town Lane: To rectify the EPC rating, who did you advise the client to appoint and why?
I advised the client to appoint an accredited energy assessor to carry out a new and accurate assessment because they have the expertise and the knowledge of the existing local regulations and standards.
47
Old Greaves Town Lane: After recalculation, what was the EPC rating of the building?
After the recalculation, it was found that the true EPC rating of the building was a D.
48
Old Greaves Town Lane: Why did you not consider insulating the concrete floor as a viable option?
Insulating the concrete floor was not considered a viable option primarily due to the high costs associated with the process for internal alterations:
- Skirting
- Internal /external Doors and frames
- Electrical and plumbing (radiators /socket height)
49
Old Greaves Town Lane: What other options did you consider other than (windows, heating and lighting)
I considered upgrading the roof void insulation but from insepction this was already 350mm depth.
I did consider the installation of external wall insulation but considered the costs against client budget and programme.
EWI requires considerable amendments to external features (window and door sills, roof extensions if the overhang isnt deep enough etc.)
50
What are the requirements for EPC's in private rented homes?
All rental properties to have an EPC rating of an E or higher before being let to tenants.
There is scope for this to change in the not so distant future to enable the government to achieve net zero by 2050.
Previous proposals to increase the MEES regulations to a 'C' by 2025 were recently put on hold (due to cost of living crises causing landlords to increase rent).
51
Old Greaves Town Lane: What was the age of the building?
1960’s detached bungalow.
52
How did you identify the age of construction at Old Greaves Town Lane?
I identified the construction to be around the 1960’s by identifying typical construction details such as:
- Cavity wall construction (post-1930)
- Low pitched gabled roof (1980 onwards greater variety of roof slopes).
- Brown concrete roof tiles.
- Light brown coloured bricks
53
Old Greaves Town Lane: Was there any cavity wall insulation?
The property was constructed circa 1960 – cavity wall insulation became popular in 1970 and made compulsory under building regulations until 1990.
There was no evidence to suggest cavity wall insulation had been retrofitted through small evenly placed holes although the render covered most of the brickwork.
Small 20-25mm holes at regular intervals usually 1m
54
Old Greaves Town Lane: What was the build-up of the concrete floor?
Ground bearing concrete floor.
Note:
- In the 1960s floors were generally poured concrete (ground bearing) with no insulation.
- Suspended /Insulating concrete floors were introduced around mid-1990.
55
Old Greaves Town Lane: What are the advantages /disadvantages of External Wall Insulation?
Advantages:
- Greater thermal performance of the building increasing EPC rating.
- No internal disruption to the property.
Disadvantages:
- Time & Cost
- Reecitification of external elements such as downpipes, doors and window cills.
- Loss of external features.
- Planning constraints may apply due to changing the external appearance especially if in a conservation area /listed building (Permitted development usually applies but seek advice).
56
Old Greaves Town Lane: What improvements did you recommend?
- Replacing the older windows to the rear elevation
- Upgrading the heating system
- Installing LED lighting.
The rating was a D with only a couple of points required for a C - the assessor confirmed these works would achieve a C rating which satisfied my client's requirements and project budget.
57
Old Greaves Town Lane: What else did you consider to increase the rating?
Roof void insulation: Adequate approximately 300mm.
Internal Wall Insulation: Disruptive and costly internal adaptions
External Wall Insulation: Costly external adaptions
Cavity wall insulation: Cost of installation (making good external walls render /clearing of cavities etc.)
58
Old Greaves Town Lane: What are the advantages /disadvantages of Cavity Wall Insulation?
Advantages:
- Increasing energy performance /increase EPC rating.
- Not disruptive internally /externally in comparison to internal /externally fitted insulation.
Disadvantages:
- Poorly fitted causing cold bridges this could be due to debris in the cavity.
- External pointing requires regular maintenance to protect from wind driven rain causing damp.
59
If you was to install cavity wall insulation what would you conisder?
- The exposure to wind driven rain.
- Condition of external brickwork.
- Condition of wall ties.
- Debirs in the cavity causing un-equal spread of insulation /cold bridging.
I would seek advice from a certified installer with an insurance backed guarantee.
Cavity Insulation Guarantee Agency (CIGA) has a directory of registered installers.
60
Old Greaves Town Lane: How did you identify External Wall insulation wasn’t installed?
- I measured the thickness of the render with a tape measure from the underside above DPC level.
- This was approximately 20mm.
- External Wall insulation would be typically be a minimum of 50mm insulation with a top coat applied.
- No planning application lodged: In some cases required when the EWI changes changes the appearance /projects greater than 16cm will require planning permission.
I advised the client to instruct an accredited energy assessor to re-calculate the true rating; this saved unexpected cost and project delays as the EPC would have been calculated at the end of the project.
61
Wynhill Bungalow: What criteria did you use to select suitable anti-baricade doors?
The doors needed to be robust, easy to use and provide the necessary security to prevent barricading.
- Two way door system.
- Full height continuous Anti-ligature hinge.
- Rebated inner frame in a robust steel section.
Cooke Brothers manufacturer installed the doors which provided a guarantee.
62
Wynhill Bungalow; What challenges did you face during the design process?
The main challenge was ensuring the design was safe for the end user while being aesthetically pleasing.
I prioritised the needs of the end user and researched various products to provide a safe but homely environment.
63
Old Greaves Town Lane: What was the current heating system and what did you recommend?
- Existing gas boiler was approximately 10-15 years old.
- Recommended a new ‘Worcester Bosch – Greenstar’ combi boiler.
A modern gas boiler produces a better EPC rating than an electric boiler.
The EPC rating considers running costs – electric boilers can cost up to 3 times more to run in comparison to gas.
NOTE: Electric boilers are considered more environmentally freiendly as they are a low carbon heating option as they do not burn fossil fuels.
64
Wynhill Bungalow: Can you talk me through the process of preparing the specification of work?
I created a detailed document outlining every aspect of the refurbishment such as;
- Supplier information
- Installation procedures
- Materials
65
Wynhill Bungalow: What were the specialist bathroom facilities?
- Non-slip vinyl.
- Level access (pre-formed) shower tray.
- Anti-ligature taps and fittings.
- Anti-tamper proof fixings.
- Anti-barricade door /hinges.
66
What is anti-ligature design?
Products designed to prevent individuals from self-harm or suicide.
67
Wynhill Bungalow: How are level access shower trays installed?
I reviewed the manufacturer's installation guidance, this included:
- Removal of existing timber floor boards.
- Install drainage.
- Install timber baton to the joist 18mm below the top of the joists.
- Install plywood low level floor on top of battens /between the joists.
- Cut out shower drain position.
- Lay shower tray in position.
- Secure to the wall and joist from the tiling lip.
- Lay new non slip vinyl bonded to the shower tray with the waterproof sealant strips.
68
Wynhill Bungalow: What other considerations did you have for anti-ligature in the design?
- Kitchen units.
- Door and window handles.
- Door and window hinges.
- Window blinds were integral to the glazing.
69
Bloomfield Bolton: What were the design requirements for the accessible bathroom?
I reviewed Approved Document M and included the requirements into my design, this included:
- Level access shower fitted in the corner to allow for shower seat to one wall and controls to the other wall.
- Wall hung basin (providing clear zone) with rim 850mm from floor level.
- WC flush control to the front of the cistern.
- 1.5m clear turning circle as per Doc M diagrams.
70
Bloomfield, Bolton: You consulted with the OT for special requirements of the accessible bathroom, where else could you have found this information?
- Approved Document M.
- BS8300 (ACOP for Inclusive design of buildings for wheelchair users). Goes above and beyond the minimum requirments set in Part M.
The end user had a specially designed wheelchair so spatial requirements were obtained to ensure the design was suitable for the individual to allow full access.
71
What are the different types of specification?
Performance Specification
- Requires further design by the contractor (contractors design portion or Design & Build).
- Outlines the performance requirements for example; the installation of the waterproofing system must be in accordance with BS8102 and provide a full guarantee.
Prescriptive Specification
- Provides full design information.
- Listing the type of products and materials required.
- This provides improved client certainty.
- Typically used for projects where the client has specific requirements.
72
What is a specification?
Written description to describe the materials and workmanship required for the project.
A specification should be:
- Clear
- Well-structured
- Detailed description of the quality, standards and workmanship.
- Description of materials to be used.
Does not include cost or drawings but drawings can be read in conjunction with the specification.
73
Why are specifications important?
- Developing an accurate, up-to-date specification provides client confidence in the design.
- Risk protection and future disputes.
74
What implications does the H&S at Work Act 1974 have on the design process?
Under the Health and Safety at Work, etc Act 1974
Work should not expose others to risks to their health and safety.
For designers, this implies a duty to provide a design risk assessment to ensure that their designs do not expose individuals on site to risks
75
What implication does CDM have on the design process?
Design decisions taken during the pre-construction phase can have a significant effect on whether a project is delivered in a way that secures health and safety.
F10 Notification may be required.
76
Wynhill Bungalow: why did you not consider an airsource heat pump?
This was something I considered and discussed with the energy assessor – I was advised that this wouldn’t provide much of an increase in the rating due to current energy prices when considering the cost of the installation.
Aware there is government methodology in the pipeline to reflect better on air source pump.
77
How old was the existing heating system and why did you think this affected the rating?
The existing heating system was 12 years old – in my experience upgrading older combi boilers with more efficient systems have increased the rating.
I recorded the boiler type and fed this information to the energy assessor who confirmed that changing the system would increase the rating.
I am aware boilers generally have a life expectancy of 10-15 years.
78
Wynhill Bungalow: What did you consider when specifying the new heating system?
Time, Cost & Quality.
The energy efficiency of the boiler and the affect on the EPC rating.
I reviewed eco rating of the system which was an A-rated boiler so 90% of the energy used was converted to heat.
* A-rated boiler: 90%+ efficient
* B-rated boiler: 86-90% efficient
* C-rated boiler: 82-86% efficient
* D-rated boiler: 78-82% efficient
* E-rated boiler: 74-78% efficient
* F-rated boiler: 70-74% efficient
* G-rated boiler: Below 70% efficient
79
When was cavity wall insulation used in building?
Between 1970 – 1980 UF Foam was used to insulate cavities (now banned due to health risks)
UF Foam became problematic as the foam tended to shrink when it sets causing cracks for moisture to penetrate /create a cold bridge and deteriorate with age.
Evaporation of wind-driven rain to the outer skin of brickwork was restricted /slowed down by the cavity insulation.
1990 – Cavity wall insulation became compulsory under Building Regulaiton Approved Document L often using fibre glass material fitted between battens and a vapour barrier behind the plasterboard.
80
Was the render original at Wynhill Bungalow?
The age of the render was unknown but this did not appear to be rendered as typically pebble dash render was used in the 1960’s.
The render was a cement render with painted finish around 15mm thick.
81
Bloomfied: Were handrails installed in the bathroom? Can you explain the requirements?
Grab rails were installed adjacent the WC and in clear access zones defined under Part M (volume 1, section 3) – 1m long /1m high and 100mm width.
I reviewed BS8300 which outlined the requirements /dimensions for grab rails:
- 35mm diameter grab rail
- Fixed with a clearance of 50-60mm between the bar and wall
- Wall construction and fixings capable of resisting loads of user (171kg recommended)
- Fixings were specified in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
- Installed 850mm – 1m from finished floor level.
82
Bloomfield: What are motion light sensors and how are these sustainable?
- They are Energy Efficient: Only turn lights on when motion is detected reducing unnecessary use of electricity.
- Using less energy will reduce energy bill and reduce the carbon footprint.
- Longevity of light bulbs by reducing time on.
83
Bloomfield: What sensor taps did you specify and how were these installed?
- The taps were specified using a ProCare product.
- The taps were installed to the basin similar to a normal tap apart from the electrical connection to the control unit. (can be battery operated but increases maintenance).
- Electric supply was 230v and installed in a dry area as per the manufactuers instructions.
- Minimum distance of 300mm measured horizontally from the edge of the bowl of the wash basin to avoid splashing.
- I reviewed the manufactueres guidance and NHBC technical guidance on ‘electrical fittings near cookers, sinks and wash hand basins’.
84
Bloomfield: What are sensor taps and how are these a sustainable feature?
When the infrared sensor below the tap detects an object the flow of water begins.
When the object is removed the flow stops.
The sustainable benefits include:
- Reducing water consumption by only using what you need /saving on utility costs.
- This means less energy is used for heating the water which would have otherwise been wasted.
- Hygiene perspective as they are touch free.
- Usually longer life as they are not subject to mechanical use like a traditional tap.
85
What is an IP rating of a light fitting?
Ingress Protection to protect from solid objects such as dirt /dust and water /steam entering the light fitting.
86
Bloomfield /Wynhill - What light fittings were specified in the bathroom?
LED Circular ceiling light was installed. (IP65)
The light fittings used in the bathroom were IP (Ingress Protection) rated to protect water or steam entering a light fitting.
I am aware that bathrooms have different zones, which determine what type IP rated light fitting to use within that zone.
87
What floor covering did you specify in the wetroom and why?
I specified an Anti-slip, Waterproof Vinyl from the Polyfloor range.
Vinyl is a synthetic flooring material made up of several different layers, which makes it highly durable and slip resistant.
Note: Polyflor is glued down to ply as per manufacturers instructions.
88
How did you know the non-slip vinyl was what you specified?
I reviewed the anti-slip rating via the manufacturer's website.
The chosen product had an R12 rating. (high slip risk due to tenant tendencies)
This information andproduct guarentee was provided in the O&M file which I reviewed to ensure matched the specification.
Manufacturers give their floors a rating based off of an “R” scale.
* R9 offers the lowest level of slip resistance
* R13 boasts the highest anti-slip properties.
Reviewing these ratings enabled me to make an informed decision on the flooring specification.
89
What is an R rating of vinyl floor?
The ‘’R Rating’’ means ‘’ramp test’’ and it is used to assess the slip resistance of vinyl flooring at numerous inclines.
The angle of the flooring is increased until slips occur during testing.
The higher the number after the ‘R’, the more slip-resistant it is.
* R9 lowest
* R13 highest
90
Are there any British Standards relating to non-slip vinyl?
I am aware there are British Standards relating to the installation of vinyl floors.
91
What RIBA stages would you be involved with during a D&B contract?
The main involvement would be during Stages 0-3.
Stage 4 (technical design would be led by the contractor) through to construction.
92
How did the level access shower tray drain? To what falls?
The shower tray was a level access 'Tuff Form' shower tray which are pre-formed to drain centrally.
This provided solid support by the SMC-GRP (Sheet moulding Compound -Glass Reinforced Plastic) for a wheelchair.
93
Bloomfield Road; Were any hoists required for the specialist bathroom?
Yes, the hoist system was specified through the occupational therapist to suite the individuals needs.
94
Bloomfield; What considerations did you have with the grab rails and fixings?
I considered the wall construction and fixings capable of resisting loads of user (171kg recommended).
The internal skin was thermalite block and the fixings were specified in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
95
Are you aware of any RICS documents relating to retrofit services?
RICS Professional Standard: Residential Retro Fit Standard
This professional standard sets out mandatory and recommended requirements and is effective from 31 October 2024.
This is to benchmark residential retrofit services tailored to their clients' evolving needs.
96
Was there a bath at Bloomfield?
Yes there was a 'Rise and Fall' bath specified by the Occupational Therapist specific for the needs of caring for the individual.
The bath was installed as per the manufactures requirements.
97
How did you determine the additional loading from the bath would be suitable for the existing floor?
The existing floor was beam and block.
98
RIBA Plan of Work; what information would take place during Stage 1?
- Client brief
- Prepare a programme and timeline for the project
99
How did you check the energy assessor was competent? Who was the energy assessor accredited with?
The Energy Assessor was accredited by:
Elmhurst Energy
100
Why did you not recommend Cavity Wall insulation at Old Greaves Bungalow?
I also considered suitability of cavity wall insulation due to the exposed location.
The property was facing open fields on an elevated site which also sat in a in a ‘Severe’ exposure zone (3) under Approved Document C.
101
Why was the exposed location an issue for cavity wall insulation?
The bungalow was located on a high level and not sheltered by neighbouring buildings.
Exposed to driving rain (assuming why the walls had been externally rendered).
Rendered outer leaves can absorb rainwater through fractures or cracks, which then trap behind the surface.
This could then lead to failure of the wall insulation /damp penetration.
102
What is the risk of cement render?
Where fractured the cement-based render can cause moisture to get trapped between the render and the wall.
This trapped moisture causes penetrating dampness and masonry erosion, which then causes the render to pull freely away from the wall.
103
In relation to the cavity wall insulation; how did you determine that the property was located in an exposed location?
I reviewed the UK Zones for exposure to driving rain outlined in Approved Document C.
The map separates the country into four exposure zones from Zone 1 (sheltered) to Zone 4 (very severe).
I identified the area was in a ‘Severe’ exposure zone (3).
104
What does Approved Document C say about cavity wall insulation in relation to exposure zones?
Approved Document C outlines a table with maximum exposure zones for insulating masonry walls.
This included rendered finish walls based on the exposure zone.
105
What Approved Documents would you consider for new bathrooms?
If I was changing the use of a room to build a bathroom then building control approval will be required for any new drainage, waste pipes and extract ventilation, and for any structural alterations you may want to make.
The extra load imposed on the floor by the weight of a bath full of water will also need to be considered.
Approved Document H: Drainage (waste pipes)
Approved Document F: Extract Ventilation
106
What type of heat pumps are you aware of and how would you advise on a certain one to be used?
Heat pumps use the unused heat stored in the air, ground or water to heat a building.
The three types of heat pumps are:
- Air source heat pumps
- Ground source heat pumps
- Water source heat pumps
Deciding which heat pump is the most suitable option will likely depend on the properties location and surrounding environment.
They operate using either the air, ground or water sources to generate hot water and heating for your home, with 75% of the energy they use being generated entirely by their surrounding environment (and the further 25% by your household electricity supply).
107
Are all buildings suitable for a heat pump system?
No, this may not be cost effective for example:
Poorly insulated homes: would need a larger heat pump to manage the loss of heat which can be more costly to run than your existing setup
108
What is a feasibility study and when would you undertake this?
Establish if the client brief is viable.
Identify a range of feasible options.
Budget costs.
RIBA Stage 1: Preparation and briefing
