Background:
Chelmer Housing Partnership (CHP) is responsible for managing a diverse range of residential properties. With increasing regulatory requirements due to the Building Safety Act, CHP sought Firntec’s expertise to ensure the compliance of a high-rise residential block in Chelmsford. This appraisal formed a critical part of their Building Safety Case preparation.
Situation:
Firntec was commissioned by Chelmer Housing Partnership to perform a visual structural appraisal of a 15-storey residential block in Chelmsford. The primary goal was to assess key structural elements for inclusion in their required Building Safety Case Report. The structure is a reinforced concrete frame with traditional reinforced concrete floors built during the 1960’s.
Solution:
Firntec completed a Structural Appraisal which was non-intrusive, meaning no opening-up works were carried out. The appraisal however identified further investigative works which would need to be completed. Firntec provided a full recommendation list to CHP.
Challenges:
The non-intrusive nature of the appraisal meant limited direct access to structural components, requiring advanced survey methods like Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR). As well as this, severe degradation of the roof-level steel subframe and spalling concrete in balconies posed immediate safety concerns, necessitating further investigations and urgent remedial planning.Complexities in verifying wall compartmentation for fire risk compliance required precise endoscopic techniques.
Results & Outcomes
GPR scans revealed detailed balcony construction specifications, including reinforcement layouts and corrosion levels, providing actionable insights for repairs.
Wall build-up surveys confirmed compliance with fire risk appraisal requirements, contributing to the Building Safety Case Report.
Concrete material testing results are pending; once available, Firntec will provide a comprehensive report with future recommendations.
A repair specification for the deteriorated roof-level steel structure is underway, addressing critical safety needs and ensuring structural resilience.
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