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WCSL create every project with efficiency and functionality. Our work is backed by a strong knowledge of structural engineering and many years of hard work. WCSL engage in new challenges, so every effort is put into the project to achieve success. WCSL will build effectively using solid but also cost-effective solutions. WCSL have extensive knowledge. experience and capability to use different tools and work in a variety of materials like steel, reinforced concrete or composite of many different ones. WCSL will execute even the most complex design to meet client’s needs.

We Strive to bring the very best structural engineering solutions to your project.

WCSL Structural Engineers are fully qualified and specialise in residential and commercial structural design. WCSL provide can provide calculations pack for every design. Our calculations can be issued to the local authority for approval. If they have any questions, we will deal with the rest.

Building regulations – The process.

To satisfy building regulations in construction you must first obtain planning permission. This can be gained by consulting an architect. They will issue drawings of the proposal and an application to the council.

If approved, one must now satisfy the building regulations. A more detailed set of drawings will need to be made by the architect and the structural engineer will need to undertake their design.

When complete, the full building regulations package will consist of a structural plan, structural calculations and detailed architects drawings. This package needs to be issued to the local authority for approval.

They will ask the structural engineer / architect any questions they may have. Once the queries are satisfied, the local authority will approve the building regulations as long as the proposed works are constructed as per the drawings.

WCSL are a dynamic London based structural design practice focused on quality architectural and structurally challenging projects, big and small. We employ experienced chartered engineers, who add value to projects by designing well detailed and efficient structures.

The structural engineering division was established in 2010 with a focus on providing high quality structural engineering design services to cope with the demand for providing an “all in one service” but also to cater for independent structural engineering needs by our clients.

We have a wide breadth of experience in structural design across the domestic, residential, commercial, education and cultural sectors. Our versatility means we can add value on a broad range of projects from domestic refurbishments, to £10m commercial new builds, or maximising the number of storeys we can add to an old structure. Based in East London, we cover the whole of London, south east and beyond.

We work in 3D (Revit) on all scales of project and can even produce integrated 3D design of connections, temporary works and RC detailing with the main structural framing. We use the latest 3D modelling software to design structures efficiently whilst using BIM integration (level 2+) to coordinate with architects and services engineers on our larger projects. Our collaborative approach and search for efficiency saves our clients time and money when projects are onsite.

Our clients say they like working with us because of our professional, personable and responsive approach combined with our attention to detail and passion for what we do. We don’t simply find an engineering solution to a problem, we are proactive and work hard to find the optimum solution for the project. This has lead to our growing reputation for innovative, cost effective and practical structural solutions.

Loft Conversions.

One of the most popular and common methods to introduce an additional bedroom into your home without exceeding budgets. We have designed and constructed many loft conversions across the UK.

Loft conversions come in all shapes and sizes and we cater for all. All of our designs will include structural calculations and drawings. Talk to us about your loft conversion and how we can help you.

Extensions

Our engineers are experienced in designing all types of extensions. Whether it’s a large two storey side or a single storey rear extension under permitted development, we are here to help. We ensure your extension complies with building regulations and provide calculations to issue to the local authority.

Using us for your extension will guarantee an economical design to the latest standards. Contact us today for a free quotation.

Wall removals.

One of our most regular call outs is the wall removal. We will carry out a site visit, determine whether the wall is load bearing and design any required structural supports to enable the safe removal of the wall.

We provide a drawing from the dimensions taken on site and mark over the structural requirements for the builder to work from. We will also provide a calculations pack that can be issued to the local authority if required. Contact us today for information how we can help.

Beam design.

Do you need a beam sized? We can do this for you at any stage during your project. Our experienced engineers can review your requirements and provide you all the information you require.

Contact us today for assistance, we would be more than happy to help.

Internal alterations.

Whether or not you have architectural drawings, we can assist you with your internal alterations. We will carry out a site visit and work out the load-bearing elements of the building. From this we can design the relevant structural solutions.

If you are considering changing the layout of your property, contact us today.

Temporary works.

How do we install that beam? A question we are often asked. This falls under the category of temporary works.

We provide method statements and temporary works design on request.

Foundation Design

WCSL work closely with geotechnical consultants to design foundations is all types of ground conditions and scales of projects.

Modular construction is becoming increasingly popular. Whilst specialist manufactures often take design responsibility for the superstructure the foundations will need to be designed by a Structural Engineer.

Unknown ground conditions represents one of the highest risks to a project running over time or budget so we recommend commissioning ground investigation and desktop studies for large projects or at the least trial pits for small projects. A good ground investigation will help de-risk the project as it will enable us to design appropriate foundations with greater confidence in project budget costings and provides insight into any ground contamination issues.

Foundations may need to bridge obstructions such as underground drainage. We can provide Thames Water bridge over details.

Piled foundations may be required when loads are high, ground conditions are poor or when building close to large trees. When close to trees we commission soil testing which can often omit the need for piling which can save thousands of pounds.

Steel Design

WCSL are specialists in the design of structural steelwork. We use the latest 3D design software to efficiently design all types of steel frames. Many firms still simply design a few ‘worst case’ beams in 2D. This can lead to grossly over engineered designs which can typically be 20-30% more expensive to construct than a refined design.

Our structural analysis software links with our drawing package so we can quickly produce clear, high quality 3D drawings which are simple to build and give an assurance that if it works in 3D, it should work onsite.

We can also offer steelwork connection design.

Structural Inspections and Reports

SUBSIDENCE MONITORING, STRUCTURAL SURVEY

WCSL can investigate specific structural concerns from corroded steel, to spalling concrete, rotten timbers and cracked or bowing masonry.

We can carry out inspections and undertake a period of monitoring to understand the defect. We can prepare detailed reports for insurers and remedial repair details.

Reinforcement Detailing

When designing reinforced concrete structures, Structural Engineers specify the size and spacing of bars required in concrete to achieve the required performance. However contractors often require detailed drawings showing the length, size, shape and reference number for every bar plus schedules to allow the bars to be bent and cut offsite and ordered in. WCSL can offer this as an additional service.

WCSL are successfully pioneering the use of 3D reinforcement details created in our drawing package. This has many benefits over traditional 2D drawings including:

• • Greater confidence of fit onsite,
  • Automated schedules mean less risk of human error,
  • Bar setting out is shown graphically as well as traditionally meaning less mistakes are made onsite.

Temporary Works Design

The most dangerous time for a building occurs whilst extensive structural works are being undertaken. A carefully considered sequence of works is vital to ensure the building is adequately support at all stages of the construction.

If a builders does not have the relevant experience to undertake the temporary works design in-house we can assist with providing a fully designed service.

WCSL are leading the way in providing phased temporary works sequence drawings, modelled in 3D,  from demolition, through the key stages of construction to the final design.

Basement Construction Method Statements (CMS) for Planning

BASEMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT, BIA, BASEMENT, PLANNING 

Basement extensions are an increasing popular way to add additional space however many London boroughs are making it increasing difficult to achieve planning permission.

Planning applications often require detailed proposals for how the basement will be constructed safely, taking into account the specifics of the local ground conditions and proposed works. These reports are commonly referred to as Basement Construction Method Statements (CMS) or Basement Impact Assessments (BIA) and must be prepared by an experienced Chartered Engineer.

WCSL have helped secure planning for large and small basements across London, including under listed buildings.

Basements and Deep Excavations

BIA, CMS, UNDERPINNING

Basement are an increasing popular way to add additional space to a house or new development. Whilst basement construction is often viewed as risky it is perfectly safe if designed by experienced Chartered Engineers and built by competent contractors.

There are many different ways to construct a basement. Structural safety is at the core of what we do but we go further by ensuring our designs are economical to build and maximise the internal space.

WCSL have designed numerous basements across London from new build double storey commercial buildings, to underpinning and domestic basements under listed buildings.

Underpinning

Whether you require underpinning to remedy subsidence or settlement, to add additional storeys to an existing building, or to enable the forming of abasement beneath your property, WCSL have a wide breadth of experience.

Underpinning can be a disruptive and sometimes costly procedure, and we pride ourselves in ensuring that our clients gain the best value from the works.  Internal area in basements can be vastly increased through the design of ‘special’ foundations, and costs can be minimised with soil testing when combating subsistence.

Our experience in specialist balanced foundation underpinning, and screw piled underpinning for confined sites provides further flexibility to your development.

Steel Design

WCSL are specialists in the design of structural steelwork. We use the latest 3D design software to efficiently design all types of steel frames. Many firms still simply design a few ‘worst case’ beams in 2D. This can lead to grossly over engineered designs which can typically be 20-30% more expensive to construct than a refined design.

Our structural analysis software links with our drawing package so we can quickly produce clear, high quality 3D drawings which are simple to build and give an assurance that if it works in 3D, it should work onsite.

We can also offer steelwork connection design.

Steel Connection Design

Where steel beams and/or columns need to be connected, we can undertake the design and detailing of these connections. Whilst many firms leave this to the steelwork fabricator to design, we firmly believe that on certain projects, such as domestic projects, and where connections are exposed, that the Structural Engineer should design and detail the connections.

By detailing the connections, ourselves we can spot potential issues which may only come to light during construction which can cause delays. Additionally, if connection design is left to the fabricator, they will often pass an inflated design cost back to the builder, and ultimately the client.

We have invested in the latest connection design software and can design complex unique connections in FEM to ensure compliance with the the Eurocodes.

Modular Construction

Modular construction is becoming an increasing popular building solution owing to greater offsite quality and rapid onsite construction times.

We work closely with specialist modular manufacturers from around the world to coordinate with the rest of the onsite structure.

Civil Engineering

WCSL offer a complete Civil Design package, with design capability ranging from house extensions all the way up to master planning major developments and beyond.

Specifically, we are able to design your Below Ground Drainage infrastructure, co-ordinating will all design team members to ensure an simple, effective and efficient clash-free design.

We are able to produce Drainage Statement for planning purposes, to help satisfy and close out all relative conditions.

We offer a road and pavement build-up design service, along with levels design around external areas of developments, including adoptable areas such as vehicle crossovers or adoptable roads.

We offer design and co-ordination combined with our Structural team to present a complete Civil and Structural package, no matter the size or stage of development. 

Loft Conversions

WCSL can tailor our service to meet the needs of the project. We can design cost effective structural solutions with traditional 2D drawings and details for simple loft conversions; or cutting edge 3D drawings and bespoke details for more architecturally challenging projects.

The structural design of a loft conversion will depend on the construction of the existing roof as wells as the proposed configuration. Following our initial inspection we consider these different factors and design the most cost effective solution. Typically this will involve:

– New floor joists as the existing ceiling joists are unlikely to be sufficient to carry the increased loading from a loft conversion.
– New steel beams introduced within the floor to trim around the new stair opening (wherever possible we will use special details to avoid steels in the floor to save cost).
– New roof joists and steels (if required)

ESTIMATING SERVICES

Feasibility Costings 

In the early stages of a project, it is difficult to provide an exact and precise figure as to the cost of a project. Changes to the design or development during planning will alter the outcome.

Developers, however, often like to get a sense of the rough costs of their plans in advance so that they can make a judgement about whether they should go ahead. Feasibility costings are helpful tools that they can use to do this.

Why Do People Get Feasibility Costings?

Feasibility costings provide builders, developers, architects, and even homeowners with valuable information that they can use to decide whether they want to go ahead with a project or not.

Here are three reasons why you might want to go ahead with a feasibility costing: 

1. To find out whether your project is viable. You might have a plan in place that delivers a project which provides all of the features that you want to include, but it might not be economically viable. The purpose of feasibility costing in this instance is to figure out whether the project makes financial sense before any work gets underway. 

2. To find other feasible options. Sometimes a range of projects is viable. The purpose of feasibility costings, in this case, is to provide you with a menu of options and show you what is possible, and what isn’t. You may find that the project you initially planned isn’t viable, but a similar one is.

3. To assist in the development of business documentation. Developers, architects and builders often have to produce a business case to show that a project is viable. Feasibility costings are a powerful tool that you can use to confirm with your client the costs of a project plan, as it stands, with confidence. Companies use feasibility costings in a range of documents, including business plans, strategic briefs and project execution plans.

What Factors Do Feasibility Costings Incorporate? 

The concept of feasibility costing is relatively straightforward: to figure out how much a project will cost to develop in the real world.

The practicalities of making such an assessment, however, are anything but simple. Building consultants include multiple factors in their evaluation of the final cost.

1. It is important to note that feasibility costings differ from other forms of cost estimates that builders encounter during the construction of a project. The initial cost appraisal includes both the construction cost of the project, as well as broader expenses which might apply, like fees, cost of moving staff, and so on. Thus, there are a variety of factors that could enter a feasibility costing:

2.

• The size of the floor space and assumptions about the prices of various inputs
• What is being included in the project, and what is left out
• Calibration to take account of market conditions in the future (and likely sale prices at the time of completion)
• The cost of fixtures, fittings, and equipment
• Running costs of the building
• Stamp duty and agency fees

Feasibility costings, therefore, are a vital tool you can use to get peace of mind and proceed with confidence.

Budget Estimates Explained

Our expert building estimators will quantify the resources that are required for a particular project including labour, material, and plant. Budget estimating will provide builders and developers with a more detailed explanation of the financial costs before committing to a project further.

Who Can Benefit From Our Budget Estimating Services?

The budget estimating services WCSL offer can be beneficial to main contractors, developers, builders, architects, subcontractors, and potentially even homeowners. It provides a clear plan of spending to match your financial goals

Benefits Of Budget Cost Estimates

It can be common to overspend on building projects. Unfortunately, a significant level of overspending can put a project in jeopardy. This is particularly true where a large amount of finance has been secured.

If an estimated cost is identified at an early stage in the project, it provides you with the knowledge you need and multiple options to consider. For instance, you could arrange alternative methods for funding in advance. Alternatively, you may choose not to move forward with the project, scale back or redesign. All these options can ensure that your project fits the budget.

Budget cost estimates can also identify potential ancillary costs that you may not have considered.

This may include fees for design, charges from consultants such as structural engineer’s fees, asbestos surveys, building regulation charges, and application fees.

Budget Estimate Calculations

Budget estimates may be prepared based on initial sketches. However, they can also be delivered after a more detailed proposal. The most accurate estimates will be delivered when a significant amount of information is provided. This will typically include both specifications and drawings.

When an estimate is prepared at the early stages, before detailed design and the project has been tendered for contractors, it can provide an accurate assessment of the expected costs from the beginning. This ensures that costs can be reined in and that the project is designed to match financial constraints.

Budget estimates will often be essential in certain building works where funding grants could have been applied for. In cases like this, it is crucial that you do choose an expert service to handle your budget estimate and ensure the most accurate report.

Budget Estimate Accuracy

A budget estimate can provide a high level of accuracy. The goal will be to provide an estimate that falls within 10% of the final construction costs. This will depend on the level of detail provided at the offset. We use an advanced cost database and an expert team of staff to offer the best estimate possible to every client.

Updated Budget Estimates

A budget estimate can be updated during the development of a project to ensure that it changes and continues to reflect the most likely cost of a project. This can be based on the decisions a client makes based on the original estimate that we provide.

Sample Work

Please contact us today to gain a sample budget estimate that reflects the detail that we provide and the level of service we offer. We take a variety of factors into account when preparing your estimate including the project’s performance, scope, quality and time.

Construction Cost Planning 

If you are just about to embark on a commercial or domestic building project and you are not entirely sure about the costs that may occur, then it is imperative that you get support for the building cost planning.

The main and sole purpose of building cost planning within the UK is to itemise each element of a domestic or commercial construction project to evaluate and calculate the likely overall cost of the build.

Cost planning explicitly refers to the construction costs – it does not include other ancillary fees. Nor does it include any of the expenses you might incur if you must wait for approval or planning permission. Cost planning is solely concerned with letting you figure out how much you can expect to pay for the building part of a commercial or domestic building project.

Why You Need Construction Cost Planning?

There are all kinds of reasons why you need cost planning for domestic and commercial building projects within the United Kingdom.

These include:

• To Help You Budget Your Construction Project. Budgeting for a building project can be tricky as there are numerous elements to consider. With cost planning, however, you can get a breakdown, item by item, showing you how much you’re likely to spend. With a construction build budget in hand, you can make better financing decisions, approach creditors with more confidence, and plan your cash flow from start to finish.
• To Compare Contractor Quotes on Your Construction Project. If you do not have a sense of how much a project should cost before you go into a negotiation with a contractor, you don’t know if you’re getting a good deal.
• To Control Costs. Commercial and Residential Developers and builders are notorious for overspending on projects. A detailed cost plan, however, shows you how much you should be spending and enables you to identify elements of the building project which are pushing you over budget. With a cost plan in hand, you can quickly scan for budgeting issues and find out why the cost of your building is coming in higher than you originally planned.
• To Manage Future Cashflow. A building project may have the potential to be profitable, but without proper cash flow, the whole enterprise can come to a screeching halt. Developers need to plan their cash flow so that they can continue to pay suppliers and workers. Without cash in the bank, builders won’t be able to complete projects and may miss out on the opportunity to deliver a profitable project. Cost planning shows you the points during the construction process where you’re likely to face financial bottlenecks, allowing you to plan for them in advance.

How Construction Cost Planning Works

The way cost planning works is simple. A building consultant will look at plans for your project and then take into account numerous factors which could affect the future cost. The consultant performs a thorough review and then feeds data into a cost model. At the end of the process, you’ll know how much money you’ll have, your main risks to costs, and where you might be able to make savings.

SCHEDULE OF WORKS 

Professional scheduling

When it comes to a construction project, time is money. This is why you must know precisely the order in which the various stages of the construction project will take place. A Schedule of Works is a programme that details how the construction project will unfold, creating an itinerary on which all stakeholders can agree.

A designer or a cost consultant usually prepare a Schedule of Works. It is a “without quantities” schedule, meaning that pricing information is omitted for brevity. Typically, a Schedule of Works is prepared alongside other documents, including specifications, drawings, preliminaries and the bills of quantity.

Schedules just detail the work that needs carrying out. They do not include detailed information about the project as you might find on the specification. At WCSL Construction, we can help you create a schedule of works to fit alongside the rest of the building documents in your portfolio. 

Keep Your Clients Up To Date

Clients want to know the order in which you will carry out work and when the task or project will finish finish. Without a schedule of works, however, it can be difficult for you to provide this information. Often, you have to guess.

At WCSL, our team is here to help. We work closely with our client’s to develop a schedule/scope/specification of works that allows the client to state with confidence what will be done by when. Our team of expert planners carefully constructs an itinerary for your project, drawing up a Schedule of Works that you can use as a selling point for your services.

Achieve Better Time Management

A Schedule of Works prepared by WCSL will provide an in-depth information and knowledge on how long each phase of the project will take, allowing you to plan time smoothly. 

Our experts provide accurate timescale estimates given your resources and toolset. WCSL are able to provide cost forecasts for the end of the project so that there no hidden and unexpected cost surprises for our clients

Create A More Compelling Pitch

By carefully calculating the time and order of the phases of the project, you can make a more compelling pitch to customers and win more business. You can show your customers how long work will take with confidence.

 Identify Work And Materials Requires

A quality Schedule of Works provides you with all of the information that you need on the work and materials required. With this detailed information, you can do more effective planning and ensure that you put realistic timelines in place.

Integrate With Other Documents

Integrating the schedule of works with other key building documents is an integral part of the process. Our team can help you harmonise your documentation and provide you with user-friendly solutions that you can use in conjunction with your pre-existing paperwork. We design our Schedules of Work for use alongside the Bill of Quantities and the Tender Analysis. Get in touch with us today to find out more.

Bill of Quantities 

Itemised Works. For More Accuracy.

Often referred to as BoQ’s, the Bill of Quantities is a very useful document that can be used to gain accurate projections regarding the quantities of each item needed in a proposed construction project. When done right, it can save the business a lot of time and money while simultaneously providing accuracy for the end client.

WCSL  have decades of experience in producing accurate descriptions and quantities from well detailed plans and drawings.

Key Benefits of a Bill of Quantities

• Free project consultations ahead of all agreements.
• Gain access to a team of QSs that boast decades of experience in this field.
• Save time and money in this key planning phase.
• Provide clients with clear documents.

 Taking Your Plans To Produce Accurate Results

Our experienced quantity surveyors have worked from virtually every type of blueprint, drawing, and diagram imaginable. Whichever methods you tend to use, we can work from your documents to provide accurate itemised lists of the necessary products for the project as well as their quantities. 

Covering All Items Within Your Project

While you may think that you’ve covered all the bases, it’s not uncommon to let an item slip your mind. WCSL provides itemised checklists that often cover features that you won’t have even considered. We leave no stone unturned, getting your project off to the best start as a result.

Keeping You Updated At All Times

WCSL works with you to become a major asset in your arsenal. We pride ourselves in providing transparency in all aspects of the BoQ’s preparations. Even though we work with exceptional turnaround times, our regular updates are crucial for your sanity as well as the project management.

Providing Clarity For Collaboration

You aren’t the only person that needs accurate results. Communication with all teams is essential and the bill of quantities can be sent out to your shortlisted contractors to provide a pricing platform, which is easy to analyse once the tenders have been returned to you by our staff.

Prepared To Your Requirements

WCSL can prepare your bills of quantities using either the Builders Quantities, Standard Method of Measurement, New Rules of Measurement, or Agreed Rules of Measurement. This gives you optimum levels of flexibility and control to ensure that all tasks are completed to your requirements and preferences.

CONTRACT DOCUMENTATION

Contract Documents Explained

A contract document is a written document which defines the work and responsibilities under the construction contract. These documents are legally binding for both the owner and the contractor.

WCSL Construction Consultants, can provide the contract documents that suits our clients individual project requirements and ensure it includes all the information that will form part of the contract. 

The documents are thoroughly checked to ensure both the client and contractors are provided with the right level of protection for the completion of your project.

Importance of A Contract Document 

It is crucial for the individual preparing for construction to fully understand what contract documents entail. A failure here can cause a contractual flaw that will impact your domestic or commercial project.

There are various types of construction contract documents that we can prepare for your project, if you are unclear of exactly what you need, our expert team here at WCSL Construction Consultants can talk your through your requirements. A selection of what we offer as a service for Contract Documents are below.

Construction Contract Agreement

This contract document is the initial agreement that is held between the developer or the private property owner and the construction contractor. This is a vital component of a construction contract. It is typically the main document that other documents will be attached or refer to.

Schedule of Work

WCSL Cost Consultants we can provide a clear schedule of work (SOW) for each and every project. This construction contract document will be valuable throughout the bidding process as well as a construction sequence.

Also known as the statement of work, the contract provided will enumerate all the work that is required as well as who is responsible. It will detail how the work must be performed and what materials need to be used. It will also detail how any change orders will be handled.

If you need any help with the scope of work, or in fact any other construction contract documents then please do get in contact.

Specifications

This area of the construction contract document will provide all technical data for the build, as well as requirements for the particular project. The information within entails further details on the materials and techniques that will be expected to be used, as signed off by the Architect to coincide with the building regulations.

These specifications will typically be negotiated and discussed before a contract is developed. Later in the process changes to specifications can be made as plans for the project evolve nearer the time of completion. We can ensure these changes are detailed correctly.

QUANTITY SURVEYING

Building Cost Estimate

Building cost estimates form part of the contract documents; it provides a detailed report of all the costs for a particular building project, whether domestic or commercial. The breakdown is detailed in accordance with the specification and the tender drawings. 

Building Project Drawings

A contract document will always include building plan drawings. These must be applicable to the work that is being completed with the domestic or commercial project. These drawings could include blueprints for a project or alternatively, it can be more simple drawings to go alongside the building specifications.

What Else Can A Contract Document Cover?

Here at WCSL Construction Consultants, we can also offer so many different forms of Construction Contract Documentation. When you use our service, the construction contract and the contract documents contained can include a variety of other details and variables. This includes:

• Payment terms
• Start dates
• Duration of project
• Liquidated damages
• Retention
• Special conditions

It is critical that whatever your position is within the build, either a Developer or an Architect and anything in between, that you are covered contractually with not only your own team, but also any subcontractors that you may have.

Tender Analysis

Clear Reporting. Decisions Made Easy.

Tender Analysis is an evaluation process that is ultimately designed to remove any stress or complications when choosing a contractor. The document supplied will provide clear reporting of every quote tendered by the various contractors contacted. The process will save time and money while, crucially, guiding you to the right decision. With decades of experience under our belt, WCSL offers one of the premier construction consultancy services in the UK. Let’s discuss your project today.

Key Benefits

• Free project consultations ahead of any deal.
• Leverage success from the experience of a team that has worked in the industry for decades.
• Cut out the waste and know where you stand throughout the process.
• Make the right decisions for your business time and time again.

Finding The Best Path Every Time

The analytical service compares the costings returned by your contractors. It can highlight which contractor is the best value for money and compares against our cost plan so you can decide which contractor to proceed with. The threat of making poor decisions can be a thing of the past.

Going Beyond Pricing Alone

It’s important to analyse more than the cheapest quote. Criteria points need to include key dates, the goods being purchased, whether the contractor fits the business’s profile, and any points that may require further discussions or clarifications. These extra elements are key to making the right choice.

Quick Reporting, Clear Advice

You aren’t only paying for the reporting itself, you also require insight. Our team of experts have seen it all, allowing us to provide the honest and clear advice regarding which options to choose. Thus giving your proposed projects the very strongest foundation, leading to more contracts won.

Value Engineering

Cutting Costs. Retaining Quality & Satisfaction.

Even with the best intentions, the costs of a construction project can come in over budget. If you find your project is coming in over your anticipated budget and want to make savings, we will look at various methods to cut back the scheme or reduce the specification to get the project value to the desired level. With our team of experienced professionals at your disposal, reaching a more appropriate solution for your project. Let’s discuss your need today.

Key Benefits

• Free project consultations to check suitability.
• Get the project back on track (and budget) with tweaks and adjustments rather than abandonment.
• Receive clear advice that can be implemented quickly to prevent further project delays.
• Can be used on projects of varying types and sizes.

Cut Costs Not Corners

While bringing your project costs back down to earth is crucial, you can’t fall into the trap of making decisions that will come back to haunt you. All of our suggestions take the long-term health and practicality of the building into account, ensuring that you can implement changes in good faith.

Information Analysis

By gathering data relating to the objectives, key criteria, and definition of value during the opening phases, our experts can identify which areas of the project where the cutbacks are most likely to fall under. The initial guidance provides a solid foundation to build an effective cost-cutting strategy upon.

Speculation Planning

Data analysis and idea formulation processes allow the team to identify cost-cutting plans that can reduce the initial overheads or make lifecycle savings without sacrificing quality or function. Any budget-saving changes will be made with the best interests of the revised project in mind.

LIVE CONTRACT QUANTITY SURVEYING

Pre Start Meetings

A pre-start meeting is integral to the success of any construction project. It enables the team to meet face-to-face and provides the opportunity to clarify critical issues surrounding the pending construction works. 

Providing effective pre-start meetings take place, it can minimise the risk of delays when construction commences, prevent miscommunication causing costly mistakes and ensure that every member of the team has approved the relevant works. 

Beneficial for both contractors, clients and project managers, pre-start meetings should be standard before any project gets underway. However, it’s important to use pre-start meetings to add value to the project, as opposed to viewing them as a necessary administrative task. With the right approach and agenda, you can rely on pre-start meetings to reduce costs, minimise delays and improve the efficacy of any building works.

Who should attend pre-start meetings?

The list of attendees at pre-start meetings will depend on the nature of the project but the architect, quantity surveyor, project manager, lead construction engineer and the client and/or their representative should always be present. If the project involves using a team of subcontractors, their manager or supervisor should also attend the pre-start meeting.

In addition to this, specialist construction consultants can add significant value to pre-start meetings. With the knowledge and expertise to provide critical advice, inviting a dedicated building consultant to your pre-start meeting will help to ensure that all key areas are covered and that your interests are protected. 

What’s included in a pre-start meeting?

There are various things to cover during a pre-start meeting, so it’s useful to have an agenda prepared in advance. Circulating the proposed agenda prior to the meeting will give attendees the opportunity to review any areas and suggest additional topics which may need to be included.

The first objective at a pre-start meeting is usually to clarify the responsibilities of each party and identify the individual(s) who will take ownership of each area. Once the roles and duties of each individual have been confirmed, lines of communication can be established, and future meeting schedules can be agreed.

In addition to this, pre-start meetings focus on project-specific issues, such as site access protocols, procurement schedules, query resolution strategies, monitoring processes, health and safety regulations, induction programs, mobilisation schedules, nomination instructions, lead-in materials, site conditions, insurance liabilities and any variations to the original plans, as well as any other issues which may affect the upcoming construction.

Preparing for pre-start meetings

In order to maximise the effectiveness of pre-start meetings, it’s important to prepare well in advance. By doing so, you can ensure that all relevant areas are included and that queries are fully resolved. 

Whilst many of the issues raised may have already been documented in the pre-agreed contract, a pre-start meeting gives you the opportunity to clarify clauses and eliminate ambiguity. Furthermore, the minutes of a pre-start meeting can be used as a subcontract, providing both parties agree. 

Valuations and Site Visits

Once construction work is underway, there are a number of protocols which should be followed. Valuations and site visits enable construction to be monitored at regular intervals and ensure that all parties have up to date details regarding the status of the project and any variation orders which have been applied.

What is a site visit?

A site visit may sound straightforward but it’s an important part of the construction process. While works are underway, dedicated personnel will visit the site to assess progress and determine which works have been completed, which are on-going, and which have yet to commence. 

This ensures that the project is running to the agreed schedule and that interim targets are being hit. If necessary, variations orders can be discussed and implemented following a site visit. Whilst the vast majority of potential issues will have been dealt with contractually and at pre-start meetings, there can sometimes be surprises during the construction process itself.

Due to this, additional site visits may be appropriate. When extra works need to be undertaken or if variations are required, these costs will need to be contracted and monitored, in accordance with any existing contracts which are in place. 

By using experienced construction consultants to carry out site visits, you can ensure that the project is being professionally assessed in its entirety. As well as providing you with accurate data and useful information, having an independent assessment carried out via a site visit ensures impartiality and can reduce the risk of disputes between parties. 

What are valuations?

Throughout the course of the project, various valuations may need to be undertaken. An interim valuation assesses the level of works completed and can lead to interim payment resolution. Carried out by a quantity surveyor, interim valuations are usually scheduled within your original contract, although they can also be arranged on an ad hoc basis.

For contractors and building firms, having an accurate interim valuation and statement is the only way to show how much of the overall project has been completed. Without this, an interim application for payment can’t be made. 

As most contractors will be relying on interim payments as their main or only source of income while works are underway, it’s vital that an interim valuation and site visits are carried out at appropriate intervals. 

In addition to valuing the works completed, an experienced quantity surveyor will also assess any variations which have affected the project, as well as any potential variation orders which are expected. Although variations aren’t uncommon, they can alter the schedule and nature of the project quite considerably and may make a significant impact to the value of the works completed.

With the information gained from a valuation and site visits, all contractual parties can ensure that the project is progressing appropriately, and that completed works can be invoiced for, in accordance with the terms of the original contract.

Final Account

A final account document within construction contains all the financial aspects of the project, as well as any documentation in relation to costs. As interim payments are likely to have been made prior to the Final Account being prepared, these will need to be included and deducted from the total outstanding amount, as appropriate. Similarly, any variations which have not yet been covered by interim payments will need to be added to the Final Account.

Often, the presentation of the Final Account and subsequent Final Account Statement will have been included in the original contract. Typically, construction contracts require contractors to submit the relevant information to the appropriate personnel within six months of completion. This ensures that the appointed expert, such as a qualified quantity surveyor – WCSL Construction Consultants, can prepare the Final Account prior to the formal completion of the project.

What’s included in a Construction Final Account Document?

Although a final account may sound fairly straightforward, it can require significant planning and research. The work carried out may need to be measured, for example, and then billed for at the previously agreed price set out in the contract. This requires an innate understanding of the industry, as well as the skills necessary to make such valuations, and should only be carried out by suitably qualified personnel, such as quantity surveyors.

In addition to this, a Final Account may also include:

• Valuation of contractors work
• Value of work which was estimated in prior agreements
• Tender adjustments
• Profits the contractor may have accrued via suppliers and subcontractors
• Outstanding statutory charges, testing and opening up fees, patents, insurances and royalties
• Amounts and prime cost sums in relation to each contractor and subcontractor
• Allowable amounts under fluctuation clauses

Preparing the Final Account in accordance with the contract

Whilst some details are included in the Final Account as standard, any final account should also reflect the contract it relates to. There may be specific clauses governing variation orders, for example, and this could have an impact on what amounts are included in the Final Account.

Due to this, it’s essential that your chosen quantity surveyor is familiar with the contract and has the opportunity to examine each clause in detail. Whilst it isn’t always necessary for a surveyor to visit a site for the sole purpose of preparing the Final Account, it is often a practicable way of conducting the relevant measurements. In such cases, representatives of the contractor and the client should be invited to attend, so that they can verify the accuracy of the measurements taken. 

An incomplete or inaccurate Final Account can lead to unnecessary delays and disputes, so it’s vital that any final account is prepared with attention to detail, accuracy and expertise. With seasoned quantity surveyors ready to assist with all elements of Final Account preparation, WCSL Construction Consultants can provide final account services tailored to your needs.

Programme Of Works.

Detailed Forecasting. Decades Of Experience.

Every construction project worker knows that time is money, which is why strategic planning is essential for keeping the work on task to reach its completion on time and budget. The Programme of Works is a detailed document that can have a telling impact for the whole team on the construction of your domestic or commercial project.

Here at WCSL Construction Consultants, our team of experienced, quantity surveyors are capable of returning highly accurate files that provide the guidance needed, before taking the next logical steps.

Let’s discuss your requirements today.

Key Benefits

• Free project consultations for all prospective clients.
• Save time and money to reduce waste to win more contracts and gain fewer rejections.
• Gain deeper insight into the projected scheduling of the works you propose to take on.
• Keep all members of your team in the know during this key process.

Plot The Process in Style

Planning each stage of the project with greater accuracy prevents a range of problems for your team. We can produce a detailed programme of works to highlight how long each task should take and look at the anticipated project duration. This can support you when building your projects.

Keep Clients In The Know

An accurate Programme of Works isn’t only great news for your business. It allows you to provide clients with accurate plans that will provide far clearer insight into the bid proposal. Aside from enhancing the bidding process, it enables you to provide greater clarity throughout the project.

Versatile Programme Of Works

WCSL prides itself on helping as many people as possible and our detailed programme of works can be used for various projects including self-builds. Contractors, project managers, builders, architects, and related personnel can all see huge benefits from using the programme of works.

Method Statement

Accurate Project Planning. Stunning Results.

Also referred to as the “safe system of work” document, a Method Statement is one of the most critical files in the pre-project planning phases. The step-by-step guide on how works will be completed will ensure that all assignments are completed in a safe and efficient manner. Our experienced quantity surveyors can prepare the document to take all key elements into account, which can also be used to provide clients with added clarity.

Key Benefits

• Free project consultations to discuss method statement requirements.
• Save time and money in the long run through clear and detailed planning.
• >Avoid delays, setbacks, and miscommunications with the client.
• Use the document alongside other key features of the building project.

Outline Hazards & Obstacles

Safety is a priority shared by all project managers. The method statement plots out every step of the contracting process to ensure that all hazards at every stage of the journey is completed to the highest safety standards by detailing any potential safety risks during and after completion.

Planning The Inventory

Before starting any project, it’s vital to order all necessary tools, materials, and equipment for the site. Detailed method statements prevent any threat of overlooking key items. In turn, this allows you to complete the project in a smooth and stress-free manner every time.

Effective Contingency Planning

While the method statement is primarily designed to plan the process to avoid problems, it’s still possible that outside factors can impact the situation, especially when working outside. A detailed method statement looks for the most practical solutions and considers potential changes that may occur.

Do you need guidance on a new construction project? 

Have you encountered an issue on a project you’re engaged in right now and need help?

If so, then you could benefit from development advice from WCSL Construction Consultants.

Development advice is a comprehensive consultancy and implementation service that helps your business push through difficult hurdles and challenges during a building project. The purpose of the service is to provide support wherever is necessary across a range of dimensions. With proper development advice, you’re able to get your construction project back on track and meet your targets.

You can use development advice for all kinds of reasons.

Find Local Sites With Development Potential

Sometimes it can be challenging to find sites near your present location with development potential. You may believe that you’ve found a great place, but with so many factors to consider, you might not be sure.

Development advice can help you tremendously if you’re struggling to determine whether you have chosen a suitable location. With the help of a development professional, you can discover with confidence whether a site has potential and if you should go ahead. Professional assistance gives you peace of mind.

Get Planning Permission Advice

Getting planning permission for a project can be a challenge. Development advice, however, helps you find out whether you’re likely to get the go-ahead from local authorities and which planning issues you may face. Building consultants have vast experience across a range of development issues and can give you sound advice based on precedence. The goal is to ensure that you’re never in the dark about whether a project is likely to be allowed to go ahead or not.

No matter what property it is, we are here to offer the advice to help you

Are you a homeowner wanting to find out whether your new extension is financially viable?

Are you a property developer needing estimates for the cost of a new project?

If so, then you may benefit substantially from property advice.

Property advice is a catch-all term which describes a variety of building consulting niches. These could include anything, from helping developers organise major homebuilding projects to assisting architects to work out how much a project would cost to develop.

The benefits of property advice are enormous. Here are just some of the ways that property advice consultants can help homeowners, architects, and people in the building construction industry.

Get Reliable Estimates

When you start a new project, it is often difficult to know precisely how much it is going to cost in advance. You may have a good idea of the costs, but having assurance on costs helps relieve the element of certain risks. 

Professional property advice consultants use data and modelling to produce a realistic budget estimate taking into consideration a wide variety of factors. With a reliable budget in hand, you can chart future cash flow and ensure that you always have the finances available to see you through to the next stage of the build.

Get A Programme Of Works

Knowing what you should do and when on a construction project can be a challenge. Building consultants, however, have the skills and expertise you need to help you organise a programme of work and figure out what you need to do next at each stage.

Knowing how long each task should take and how they depend on the completion of others is vital. You need to know how long a project is going to take before signing any contracts or handing over money.

Unfortunately, it’s not always clear, even to development professionals, how long a particular job will take. Individual companies often do not have access to all the data they need to make reliable estimations.

The goal is to give you confidence about when your build will be complete. Building consultants develop a programme of works from the ground up, based on the unique features of your project.

Cut Costs When You Go Over Budget

If it looks like you’re going to go over budget, a property advice service can help you rein in costs. Consultants scan for opportunities to make savings and find ways to cut costs you wouldn’t ordinarily consider.

Get Help With Contract Documents

Writing a legally viable contract document can be a challenge if you’ve never done it before. Good property advice, however, makes it easy. A professional building consultant can tailor your contracts to the specific requirements of your project so that there are no nasty surprises down the road.

The benefits of property advice are remarkable. With the help of professional building consultants,

WCSL’s team of friendly diverse and open-minded architects, planners and interior designers fully engage to understand client’s needs. WCSL like to co-create places that are beautiful and answer all our clients preferences.

WCSL take care and pride of every project from the smallest details to unique design development right through final detailing no matter if the project is large or small

WCSL offer services that will make every project special, well designed and completed to the highest standards in a professional manner. Our unique architect’s, planners and interior designers will fulfil our client’s dream design.

WCSL offer eco-friendly solutions that fulfil client’s needs and requirements which will complement the 21^st century.

WCSL offers not only commercial but private residential projects, basements, lofts and house extensions at all scales. We create modern and sustainable developments that are unique and appealing.

Preconstruction & Planning

Whether it is a new build project, simple internal alterations to your existing property, or a rear extension, loft conversion, new basement, retaining walls, structural surveys WCSL use aesthetic considerations of structures & design to provide our clients with a complete package for all types of construction projects.

WCSL’s Qualified Chartered RIBA Architects, Planners and Interior Designers will provide pragmatic designs and solutions, for types of projects to ensure that the correct advice is provided and planning is achieved for the maximum achievable. WCSL offer planning and interior design drawings for all residential & commercial buildings.

Our aim is to help you get the most out of your property as well as helping you get all the necessary approvals from your local authority concerning Building control, Building Regulations Approval and Planning Applications. WCSL also have vast experience in achieving planning and building consents with 1 & 2 Grade Listed Buildings. 

From Architectural Designs, Structural involvements and Interior Designers, WCSL will handle the process of overseeing the project from inception to completion and provide full reports, planning and working construction drawings to ensure schemes are achieved to our clients requirements and standards.

Planning and Building Control

At, WCSL London we work with the best the industry has got to offer, our engineers’ knowledge of building control is vast and in-depth. Our specialists ensure that all of our projects are designed and built-in line with the Building Regulations and other related legislation as well as the earlier CDM 2015 Regulations.

We work with precise calculations on all our building projects, structural calculations, adjustments to the specification or extensions, while also aligning with established requirements for health and safety making sure they are all carried out to the expected standards.

Coordinate with the Building Control

WCSL collaborates with some of the most successful the industry has to offer, our engineers are highly skilled in building control. All our specialists make sure that all our projects are designed and built-in line with the Building Regulations and associated legislation and other earlier legislation from the CDM Regulations 2015

Our calculation, adjustments or extensions regarding all our building projects are accurate and we also ensure that all health and safety standards are met with.

Interior Design

WCSL “Interior Designing” operate primarily in London, South East and surrounding areas. WCSL offer unique designs and CAD drawings to provide a real life visual look at how the end product, building or space will look and feel. 

WCSL experienced Interior Designers offer appealing and unique designing to suit all types of constriction and refurbishment projects. From domestic extensions, new builds, loft conversions, to bathrooms, kitchens, bedrooms ,living rooms through to commercial offices, stores, shops, etc. WCSL will transform and convert dated and old buildings to an new modern airy looking designs to very appealable and usable spaces using all the modern and new materials. 

A room or building that is properly interior designed can completely change and complement the feel and look despite the location. 

With our expert interior designers we will help you redefine and transform your space to provide and modern and aesthetically appealing surrounding to suit clients needs.

WCSL is a multi-disciplinary services and building company that provides a full construction service, using latest innovation, modern technology and latest building practices. We offer dedicated services for all our clients across various markets from both the public and private sectors.

Woodford Construction Services Ltd (WCSL) is a building, construction, and refurbishment company, which has been established for more than 25 years. As reputable building contractor, WCSL is able to offer a wealth of experience, having undertaken a broad spectrum of projects in the past. from small residential refurbishments, to large scale, high-value commercial developments, we are confident that we can provide the skills and services that your building project will require

Our aim is to deliver the projects to the highest standards and workmanship without compromising on health and safety standards and all necessary paperwork. Our team are professional, highly skilled and trained in accordance with guidelines and legislation of the Building Control and CDM 2015.

Our company is built on trust and dedication with focus on punctuality, ecology, innovations and competitive prices for the services we provide. We aim to deliver your project to our clients needs perceptions and requirements