Hiring a highly professional construction company can be beneficial in many ways. In houseUP we have a unique approach:  our construction managers are also structural engineers with several years of construction site experience.  
Many times we saw how houseUP approach prevented issues and saved costs for our clients, when at first sight a solution seemed impossible.

Who would think that a structural engineer can avoid a party wall dispute with neighbours?

The project: adding a storey to a five-storey terraced building
---------------------------------------------------------------

Our clients acquired a five storey terraced building, with blocks of flats on both sides of the building. The development plan included internal layout re-configuration, creation of additional space at the rear of the building and a loft conversion. At the end of the project, our client was going to rent out the 6 completed flats.

The work included the removal of structural walls and the creation of a new suspended timber floors. Those alterations required the installation of steel beams, usually placed on the party walls. Party walls are the easiest option and most commonly implemented because they don’t have openings, like doors or windows, as they separate adjacent buildings. The absence of any opening makes it very simple to design the placement of the beams and define the load distribution configuration.

![HouseExtensionRoofStructureVBeamsGreenwich_1024x768.jpeg](/uploads/House_Extension_Roof_Structure_V_Beams_Greenwich_1024x768_67cb5054ca.jpeg)

The challenge: a party wall procedure involving 12 parties
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According to the Party Wall Act, we had to reach an agreement with all the freeholders and leaseholders from adjoining flats. In this project, we had several independent adjoining flats that required 12 party wall agreements.

### What is the Party Wall Act

According to the party wall act, you need to agree with each and all your adjoining neighbours when planning building work involving alterations to walls astride a boundary. In case you cannot reach an agreement in 14 days, you and your neighbours will appoint party wall surveyors to reach an agreement.

You can learn everything you need to know on party wall agreements from our post [here](https://www.houseup.co.uk/news/party-wall-agreement-loft-conversion/).

### What’s the impact of a party wall agreement with 12 parties

When negotiating a party wall agreement, every party has the right to appoint their own party wall surveyor. Plus, the time factor can significantly impact the project plan, delaying the start of the construction work.

When our clients engaged us, they hadn’t even started the party wall procedure. In this project, complications were very likely to occur because of the large number of involved parties.

Even if all the parties granted their consent straight away, the procedure would cost at least £ 10k if they chose to involve party wall surveyors to draft the agreement; plus, a delay of two months at the least would mean a loss of income from the renting of about £ 18k.

In the worst case scenario, signing off the party wall agreement could take several months of delay and huge expenses, if the  neighbours are not in agreement with the planned work. When solicitors and party wall surveyors are appointed by the involved parties, our clients were likely to have to cover for all the costs.

In our clients’ assessment, the party wall procedure was forecast to cause a delay of 6 months and a loss of income of £ 50k plus the additional expenses.

![old-foundry-king-truss-post-min-scaled_800x421.jpeg](/uploads/old_foundry_king_truss_post_min_scaled_800x421_e50ef1f5d9.jpeg)

The solution: technical expertise and a unique structural approach
------------------------------------------------------------------

When we were appointed by our client, we decided we wanted to find a way out of the hassle related to the party wall agreements; our engineer took the lead and started to work on an alternative structural design that would shortcut the party wall procedure and leverage technical competence and design creativity instead.

We proposed an alternative design, placing the steel on top of the front and rear external walls. Technically this is more challenging compared to using the party walls, because we could not rely on solid structures with a continuous pattern. Unlike party walls, the front and rear walls are discontinuous structures and the distribution of the load depends on many variables, like window openings and the internal layout of the different floors.

The new structure required to define the correct load path so that the load is distributed correctly along the elements down to the foundations. The new design had the floor beams sitting on the front and rear external walls. The beams had an 8-metre span and were larger than the ones from the original design.

We also made some alterations to the external window and door openings, replacing the existing lintels with steel beams, to distribute the load correctly from the floor beams to the foundations.

![PenthouseLondonChiswickNewStoreyVictorianTerrace_600x450.jpeg](/uploads/Penthouse_London_Chiswick_New_Storey_Victorian_Terrace_600x450_04b68cbf55.jpeg)

The result: faster completion and lower cost
--------------------------------------------

When we proposed the alternative solution to our client, we were able to provide evidence that the new design would result in completing the work more quickly.

Although the new structural design would cause a max of 10% increase of the construction cost, it made the investment much more profitable in a shorter time frame.

Our clients could complete their project following an alternative structural design thanks to our in-house structural engineer, who also led the implementation of a structure that did not impact the party walls.

Legal processes can deeply affect the profitability of a property investment. Having the right professionals on your side can become the most important factor to make a difference between success and failure. Brilliant engineers who understand technical, legal and financial aspects can be the most profitable choice you make when investing in the property market.

Party Wall agreements can be costly and cause delays. Find out if there are ways for you to avoid this when planning building works, at houseUP

Do I need a party wall agreement? | Maybe Not... | houseUP

Do I need a party wall agreement? Maybe not…

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Depending on the type of structure involved, there are a wide variety of building materials from which the construction company in charge of overseeing operations can choose. Bricks, cement, clay and concrete are perhaps the most commonly used materials, but metals, wood and aggregates (such as gravel, sand or any other particulate substance) are also popular choices.

Selecting building materials
----------------------------

How does those in charge ensure they pick the right materials for the job? While the construction company will make the ultimate decision, it’s one that’s invariably made based on the specifications provided by the design team. If there is any leeway with regards to those specifications, the final choice will likely be influenced by budget, availability and experience.

![RoofJoistsGreenwich.jpeg](/uploads/Roof_Joists_Greenwich_8e053b1268.jpeg)

### Details in the Design

Although the construction company are responsible for choosing the right building materials, the decision is not all of their own making. Instead, the design team (comprising an architect, structural engineer, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, civil engineer, interior designer and any other number of trained professionals) will submit the specifications for the project, complete with recommendations for the materials they deem best for the job.

These recommendations are based upon a number of different factors, such as the type of structure or edifice in question, the durability of the materials and their appropriateness for the purpose specified. Depending upon the client, there may also be other concerns, such as the sustainability credentials of the [building](https://www.houseup.co.uk/services/design-build-london) and other extenuating circumstances.

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![skirting-1.jpeg](/uploads/skirting_1_8d5072cd04.jpeg)

### Get the best that your budget can afford 

In many cases, the design team may allow for some flexibility in their specifications. For example, they may add “or equal” in their documentation, giving the construction company the flexibility to source and suggest a viable alternative. On rare occasions, the design team may deem it unnecessary to specify a particular material at all and leave the decision up to the construction firm. In all cases, any alternatives proposed by the construction team must be cleared with the design team and owner prior to commencement of the project.

In situations like this where this room to manoeuvre, a good construction company will seek to acquire the highest quality materials within the allocated budget. Other factors which may influence their decision include the availability of the materials in question. For example, remote locations may mean that acquiring and transporting a particular substance is more time-consuming and expensive than a feasible alternative.

![windows_scaled-e1574679346871.jpeg](/uploads/windows_scaled_e1574679346871_8881bf8df2.jpeg)

### Win-win for everyone

Of course, this mode of operation benefits the clients, since they will be sure to achieve the best possible results for the agreed price. However, the construction company itself will also profit from taking an assiduous approach to selecting the right materials for the job. For starters, high-quality building materials are easier to manage, install and work with in general. They also result in fewer defective pieces, generating less waste from the project, while superior supplies also allow for faster speeds on site.

To achieve the optimal value for cost rate, building companies constantly strive to select the best suppliers on the market for each construction material. Often, they will create long-lasting partnerships with suppliers, so that they always have access to the best materials at the best prices from a source that they know they can trust.

Get in touch for more info on how to select materials for your renovation project

Depending on the type of structure, there are a wide variety of building materials from which construction companies can choose. Read about this process here.

How Do Construction Companies Select Building Materials?

How construction companies select building materials

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In construction, you very rarely pay attention to the challenges of structural design.
The cost, complexity and schedule of construction projects are deeply impacted by the structural elements and their design. It is possible to create alternative structural designs that address budget and complexity issues as well as space, light and habitability.
As the word design suggests, creating supporting structures for buildings is a creative exercise.

![TimberStructureBoltsCloseUp-min.jpeg](/uploads/Timber_Structure_Bolts_Close_Up_min_50d5843c2e.jpeg)

## How to add a storey to a 1970 three-storey building in Central London
The building has external load-bearing brick walls, 3 storeys with suspended timber floor and a middle spiral wall. The width of the structure was 12 meters and the length was 21 meters.

## Weight, size, transport, access: the challenges of a traditional steel structure
The main challenge is to create the optimal design for the additional floor. The most obvious solution would use very long and large steel beams because of the long span of the structure.
Creating a structural frame in timber, we saved our client money and time and make the installation easier, compared to the equivalent of the steel structure.

### THE WEIGHT OF STEEL VS THE WEIGHT OF TIMBER
Steel adds a massive weight load to the existing structure, causing additional stress to the building; it might also require strengthening of the foundations and internal load bearing walls.
Timber is much lighter so that no alteration to the foundations is required in this case. Because of the lower weight, it is also easier to transport, handle and install.

### INSTALLING LONG STEEL BEAMS VS INSTALLING SHORTER TIMBER BEAMS
long steel beams are difficult to transport and install and need special equipment to be lifted and put in place, often requiring permissions from the council to block roads and pavements. They also need specific health and safety measures during the installation.
The timber structure has shorter and lighter elements so that no additional measure is needed for transportation and the installation procedure is simpler.

### THE COST OF STEEL VS THE COST OF TIMBER, INCLUDING DELIVERY AND TRANSPORT TO THE TOP FLOOR
steel is an expensive material, even more when we include the management of the installation operations.
With timber, all the costs due to the usage of steel were eliminated or lowered.

![TimberStructureConnectionFromInside.jpeg](/uploads/Timber_Structure_Connection_From_Inside_40f0d1670d.jpeg)

## HOW TO DESIGN A TIMBER STRUCTURE SO THAT IT IS EQUIVALENT TO A STEEL ONE?
With the timber design, we could exploit the added flexibility, distributing part of the weight of the flat roof on the internal walls of the new storey and consequently on the internal walls of all the storeys below.
This would not be possible with a steel structure because the internal walls were not strong enough to bear the load of the steel frame.

![TimbervsSteelLoadPathSketch.jpeg](/uploads/Timbervs_Steel_Load_Path_Sketch_75427d7d45.jpeg)

To use timber, we designed special connections between the mansard rafters and the flat roof joists, so to make sure that the load was distributed correctly. We transferred half of the load of the timber joists to the rafters and then from the wall plate to the external load-bearing brick walls.
We designed the connections between the joists and the rafters to transfer the vertical load, shear and bending moment from the flat roof to the mansard walls. We also used 2 extra pieces of timber bolted together with M12 bolts connecting the roof joists with the mansard rafters and the latter with the wall plate of the external wall.
To compensate lateral forces, we connected all the timber rafters and joists with plywood sheets, so that the structure was stable and could restrain wind forces.

![TimberStructureConnectionOutsideBlueSkyFrontPerspective.jpeg](/uploads/Timber_Structure_Connection_Outside_Blue_Sky_Front_Perspective_25723ddd1a.jpeg)
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### WHAT ARE THE TANGIBLE BENEFITS OF THE TIMBER STRUCTURE?
Using timber, we were adding less weight, as the timber structure would be much lighter than the steel one. A rough estimate is that the total weight of the timber structure was 20% of the equivalent steel one.
The timber structure allowed a more even distribution of the load onto the existing building.  We created better load paths with our design concept, also thanks to the higher flexibility of the timber material .
The higher flexibility of the timber material also meant that timber was easier to transport and install, and the operations were less error prone than the ones involving steel. The handling of shorter and lighter joists was less complex and could be done by fewer people at a time.
Plus, timber is less expensive in itself, so our client saved roughly 30% of the cost of the material for the structure.
Finally, we must consider the savings in transportation and installation. We estimate the timber structure saved 50% of the cost compared to the equivalent steel one.

 

### WHY WAS ALL THAT IMPORTANT FOR OUR CLIENT’S SATISFACTION?
Using the timber structure we completed the project earlier because we built the structure more quickly. Our quotation was more convenient for the client because we had lower contingency rates. We mitigated the risks of a steel structure using a timber design. The savings were even higher because of the lower costs of materials and installation.
Overall, our client saved money in many different ways. We saved them time, cost of material, labour, equipment and finally contingency cost.

Learn how houseUP saved 50% of the costs designing a timber structure for the extension of a building in Central London

Innovative Structural Design Saves 50% Of Costs | HouseUp

How Structural Design Can Save 50% of the Cost of Your Roof Extension

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## Leasehold Flat Refurbishment With Installation of Steel Beams

Our client bought a leasehold flat in very poor conditions, in a conversion building dating 1900\. She needed a complete refurbishment and a new layout. The alterations included the removal of a load-bearing wall to create an open space kitchen and living room, which required the freeholder consent. 
Initially our client engaged a building contractor directly who provided the structural design of an independent structural engineer and started immediately with the stripping out of the flat. 
The freeholder refused to give consent to implement the original structural design and the work was suspended. Our client tried to negotiate but in the meantime she had to pay for short term rent and mortgage every month.

## Negotiation With The Free Holder And Consent Refused

The original structural design included three steel beams to support the roof load as replacement for the removal of the load bearing wall. The freeholder refused to give consent for the installation of three steel beams, trying to exploit our client’s situation and convince her to buy the loft space from him. During the negotiation, the freeholder provided provisional consent to complete the work using only one steel beam.

## Changing The Structural Design As A Way To Solve The Freeholder Consent Issue

When our client contacted us, we immediately thought of an alternative design. With minimal structural alterations we would obtain the freeholder’s consent. It was possible to realise the conversion using only one steel beam. 
How is it possible to replace three beams with only one without compromising the structure? The original design distributed all the load to the party walls via three thinner steel beams. In our solution we used only one steel beam, placed in the critical point and thicker; plus, we replaced the timber joists with thicker ones. This way we distributed the load evenly between the beam and the external walls.

## How Structural Design Solves Construction And Legal Issues

In construction, you very rarely pay attention to the challenges of structural design.
The cost, complexity and schedule of construction projects are deeply impacted by the structural elements and their design. It is possible to create alternative structural designs. We can optimise budget and complexity issues and maximise space, light and habitability.As the word design suggests, creating supporting structures for buildings is a creative exercise.

![Sketch-3-Part-A-1500x714.jpeg](/uploads/Sketch_3_Part_A_1500x714_573a81760f.jpeg)

Using one beam only, we were able to resume the work and allow our client to move in after 6 weeks, so that she could stop paying for the rent. 
After a total of 9 weeks the work was completed including the new sash windows made by measure, custom made oak flooring, a beautiful Italian kitchen and a large bathroom with stunning Italian tiles.

## Find Out How Our Approach Can Help Your Project Move Forward

We can dramatically improve the satisfaction of our clients optimising the structural design. 
Where and how to place columns, beams, joists and other structural elements, openings, windows, skylights and more can dramatically impact the cost of the project, the time to completion, the compliance to building regulation, the habitability of a space. 
houseUP is always proactive on construction projects to solve and remove issues.

HouseUP is a leading construction company in London. Our construction advice helps solve issues about consent by the freeholder

Flat Renovation in Queen's Park London And Freeholder Consent | HouseUp

Leasehold in Queen’s Park London And Freeholder Consent

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What makes construction estimations so tricky?
----------------------------------------------

What is the first step to make sure your project is delivered on time and in budget?  
That’s impossible if the initial estimation was wrong!

You don’t want to consider a quote that is too high, for obvious reasons. But a quote that is too low can be worse.

> A quote that is too cheap means your builders might leave your project site as soon as they realise they cannot make profit out of it.  
> In the best case scenario a cheap quote means the builders will cut corners to make ends meet.

Some tiny variables can make a huge difference in the final cost of your project. Find out some facts you have to consider to get your estimation right.

![good_construction_estimation_infographic_houseup-7.png](/uploads/good_construction_estimation_infographic_houseup_7_38566c53c9.png)

You can download our infographic [here.](https://www.houseup.co.uk/good_construction_estimation_infographic_houseup.pdf)

Infographic - Learn 8 unexpected facts in construction estimations. houseUP is a leading construction company in London | HouseUP

Construction Estimate Interesting Facts | HouseUp Infographic 

Infographic – 8 interesting facts a good construction estimate takes into account

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### The new H Mart flagship restaurant brings Korean food and culture to London

Oseyo Eats is one of our favourite commercial projects in London. Located in one of the busiest area of the city, in a new build, had all the challenges and opportunities related to the unique location.

##### **The gallery**

You can skip all the talking and have a look at the beautiful gallery [here](https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/oseyo-eats-korean-restaurant).

![Oseyo-31.jpeg](/uploads/Oseyo_31_89c663b283.jpeg)

##### **The location**

Between Waterloo station, The Old Vic Theatre and the vibrant Southwark scene, Oseyo eats has already become a favourite lunch option during the day and a quick pre-theatre pop-in place.  

![Oseyo-9.jpeg](/uploads/Oseyo_9_4706161689.jpeg)

##### **The project**

houseUP took on the project since H Mart team selected the location and managed the project in a full-on partnership mode. Together we chose the materials, we put solutions in place to unpredictable problems and flexibly embraced the requests for changes. We shared motivation, enthusiasm and commitment, feeling as part of one bigger team.  

##### **Timber details**

Oseyo eats is full of beautiful features; houseUP worked with H Mart to design the amazing details and then brought them to life. The timber details are amongst our favourites. The warm blond accents of the joists are a special touch that reprise the wave theme of all Oseyo shops. All the timber joists were hand crafted on site by the houseUP working teams.  The timber listels that pattern one of the main walls were also created onsite from raw materials.  

![Oseyo-33.jpeg](/uploads/Oseyo_33_1c64f9cc02.jpeg)

##### **Italian porcelain tiles**

Stunning concrete effect porcelain tiles on the floor of the main room complete the delicate balance between ornate and post-industrial vibe typical of the atmospheres of the Far East. The careful arrangement of led strips, led spotlights and led batons in warm and cool white enhances the effect, giving the visitor the feeling of entering a casual street diner in the centre of Seoul.

##### **The way we were**

We still remember the first day when houseUP took control of the site and put everything in motion. We were so excited to work with H Mart on their most important opening of the year.

![waterlooHouseUPteam-1125x1500.jpeg](/uploads/waterloo_House_U_Pteam_1125x1500_9596f14e01.jpeg)

##### **Today**

To see the final result, have a look at our [portfolio section](https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/oseyo-eats-korean-restaurant) and drop by the [Oseyo Eats restaurant](https://oseyo.co.uk/) for a full immersion Korean experience in the centre of London.

houseUP is a leading construction company in London. Oseyo Eats restaurant in Waterloo is one of our recent commercial projects

Oseyo by H-Mart brings Korean food and culture to London | houseUp

Oseyo Eats by H Mart is now open in London Waterloo

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Dreaming of custom designing your own home?  
The most important thing is to make sure that the construction company you choose is given the time and resources to bring your vision to fruition. To create the property of your dreams it’s not worth compromising on quality in order to shave a week or two off the construction time.

It’s also important to ensure that the project doesn’t suffer endless delays and stretch out long beyond your projected timetable.

When it comes to designing and building a custom home, there are generally two different approaches you can take. Which one you choose will have a massive effect on both the cost of the project and the time it takes to come to fruition.

**The _design and build_ route**
--------------------------------

In the world of construction, the phrase “design and build” refers to a specific procurement process and the type of contract associated with it. In layman’s terms, this means engaging one company to handle all of the designs, planning permissions and construction logistics. houseUP will create a bespoke [design and build](https://www.houseup.co.uk/design-build-london/) package especially for you, including definition of all of the property’s specifications and all planning permission applications.

One major advantage of tackling the issue in this manner is that the specifications are tailored to your particular budget, since the company which authored those specifications is the same one that will build it. As a result, you’re far more likely to stay within your initially agreed budget. Meanwhile, by only having one firm with whom you deal, you’ll increase efficiency, simplify things and expedite the whole process. From start to finish, including design, planning permission and construction, the design and build route takes approximately 18 months for completion of a custom home.

**The _tender_ route**
----------------------

The (perhaps more traditional) alternative to the design and build route is contracting an architect to handle the initial design and planning permission applications. While this may be a tried and tested route for tackling those two problems, things become more complicated once the actual construction gets underway. For this, the architect will employ a structural engineer to fashion the home’s structural design, while also creating the tender documents for the project, which contain its specifications and technical records.

### The competitive tender

The tender package is then given to one or more construction companies for them to bid upon, with their quotes often 20% to 25% higher than the original budget that was agreed with the architect. All of the above normally takes around nine months to complete, with the tender package the most expensive part of the process. After that, it will normally take around six weeks to evaluate the quotes, choose a construction company and negotiate the contract with them. Finally, the actual construction itself will take approximately one further year, resulting in a total of two years to complete the custom home when using an architect for the design.

### The negotiated tender

If you already know which construction company you want to carry out your project, you can choose the negotiated tender route. Your selected contractor will produce a quotation, which is negotiated until an agreement is found. It’s extremely effective when you have tight timelines and a trust relationship with the contractors.

**Win-win for everyone**
------------------------

Of course, this mode of operation benefits the clients, since they will be sure to achieve the best possible results for the agreed price. However, the construction company itself will also profit from taking an assiduous approach to selecting the right materials for the job. For starters, high-quality building materials are easier to manage, install and work with in general. They also result in fewer defective pieces, generating less waste from the project, while superior supplies also allow for faster speeds on site.

To achieve the optimal value for cost rate, building companies constantly strive to select the best suppliers on the market for each construction material. Often, they will create long-lasting partnerships with suppliers, so that they always have access to the best materials at the best prices from a source that they know they can trust.

Get in touch for more info on our build packages


When you design and build your home, you’ll want to make sure your construction company is given the time and resources they need.

How Long does it take to Design and Build a Custom Home? | HouseUP

Design and build your custom home

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houseUP is a construction company in London, specialised in high end residential and commercial projects

Watch us at work

We are in love with our new project! We created a new home for a family with two small children.

The house has three floors plus the basement.

![452-Bespoke-furniture-crittall-wall-Greenwich-town-house-with-basement-renovation.jpeg](/uploads/452_Bespoke_furniture_crittall_wall_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_64524fc54d.jpeg)

The crittall wall in the basement, with the bespoke under stair cabinets

Early Victorian with Georgian infuences
---------------------------------------

The property is early Victorian, probably built around 1840, with clear Georgian influences in the design, and is located in the Ashburnham Triangle Conservation Area.

The planning permission process required in-depth conversations with the local authorities, around the proposed solution for the rear extension.  
In the end we got permission to create a fully glazed rear extension that became the studio room on the ground floor.

We put a  lot of extra care during the construction works.

![A7A6489.jpeg](/uploads/A7_A6489_a6e424552e.jpeg)
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The basement
------------

In the basement we created an open-space kitchen and living room, plus the game and family room at the back. 

We installed a resin flooring in the basement, a type of material which is extremely sensitive to humidity and is very delicate as well.

![531-Basement-Kitchen-resin-floor-crittall-wall-Greenwich-town-house-with-basement-renovation.jpeg](/uploads/531_Basement_Kitchen_resin_floor_crittall_wall_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_2f2bc18271.jpeg)

The kitchen in the basement, with the resin floor and the crittall wall

The game and family room at the back of the basement has an entire glazed wall with bifolding doors that open on to the back garden.

Other details in the basement include a crittall wall along the staircase to the ground floor and bespoke furniture.

![480-Basement-playroom-resin-floor-Greenwich-town-house-with-basement-renovation.jpeg](/uploads/480_Basement_playroom_resin_floor_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_dd3e72db88.jpeg)

The kitchen seen from the game and family room in the basement

A full renovation in a conservation area
----------------------------------------

All the windows are new and in line with planning conditions for the conservation area.

![630-Ground-floor-library-and-sitting-room.jpeg](/uploads/630_Ground_floor_library_and_sitting_room_533ca28d58.jpeg)

The library on the ground floor

Get in touch for your renovation project in Greenwich

houseUP is a leading construction company in London. In Greenwich we renovated a townhouse with a huge basement space 

Basement and full renovation of a Victorian house in Greenwich | HouseUP

Basement and full house renovation in Greenwich

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For this project we built an extra storey on top of a Victorian mansion block. The building is located within the Bedford Park conservation area. The new floor was added to a flat on the 4th floor of the mansion block.

The original property is a top floor flat in a four-storey residential block which is part of a residential estate developed in the late 1870s and 1880s. This building is a later addition to the several buildings in the area in the Queen Anne style.

The project required a very involved planning permission process, where the local authorities required, amongst other things, very detailed heritage reports and specific evidence on the impact of the alterations on the appearance of the building.

A house in the countryside on top of a Victorian mansion block
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Our client is a professional who spends most of the year abroad, and wanted the comfort of a house with a green outdoor space, combined with the security of the penthouse in a mansion block. With this extension, we added a large sitting room, a shower room with a sauna and a large green outdoor space as a terrace at the back of the building.

The outcome of the project: a suspended garden overlooking the rooftops of Chiswick, with ultra realistic artificial glass, a special corner for BBQ, glass for both  the balustrade and the doors that occupy the whole wall with a levelled perfectly flat threshold.

> It’s like lounging in the back garden of a house in the countryside.

![BPM17-Victorian-Penthouse-London-Chiswick-Hallway-Front-Door-Italian-Staircase-Herring-Bone-Parquet-with-Visitor_scaled.jpeg](/uploads/BPM_17_Victorian_Penthouse_London_Chiswick_Hallway_Front_Door_Italian_Staircase_Herring_Bone_Parquet_with_Visitor_scaled_af4382bf81.jpeg)
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Structural challenges
---------------------

houseUP performed the design and build, specifically designing the structural alterations, which are a very sensitive factor in the refurbishment of period buildings.

After the design, the implementation of the alterations was a very delicate matter.

Often in a building like that everything seems ok until you open up and start moving things around. A crucial piece of work was for houseUP to apply further reinforcements to the structure, according to what we found while the work progressed, with the formal approval of our structural engineer. 

In the process, our in-house structural engineer was always on site and building control officers approved the work in progress.

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Access and other project management challenges
----------------------------------------------

There are 16 flats in the mansion block. A residents association makes sure that rigorous methods drive the management of the works. We followed a strict method statement to minimise the impact of the works. houseUP was in constant communication with all the residents. This way we made sure they were always up to date with the progress. Direct communications allowed the residents to share any concern in real time.  
  
The access to the top floor was particularly difficult because the residents required that the main stairwell could not be used at any time by the construction team, apart from the personnel accessing and leaving the site.  
All materials were lifted to the top floor using hoists from the scaffoldings at the rear of the building. A very narrow access to the rear made it impossible for larger vans and lorries to reach the area.

Craning was also necessary during the project. In fact we used a crane to lift heavy and fragile items, like the large glass doors for the grass terrace. The permeable resin bound paving, installed recently, could be damaged by heavy machinery. Plus, the operations were difficult because of the narrow access to the rear of the building.

![BPM0006-Victorian-Penthouse-London-Chiswick-Terrace-Flat-Room-Conversion-From-The-Sky_Y.jpeg](/uploads/BPM_0006_Victorian_Penthouse_London_Chiswick_Terrace_Flat_Room_Conversion_From_The_Sky_Y_170ffc4dcd.jpeg)

The refurbishment
-----------------

The project included also the refurbishment of the whole flat, and in particular the following:

* new sash windows in line with the requirements in the conservation area
* installation of a new timber flooring throughout
* a new kitchen
* 4 new bathrooms
* a sauna
* integrated speakers
* voice controlled heating, lights, sound systems and blinds

We loved working with Andrew, the owner, because he gave us the opportunity to use so much of our expertise in [property refurbishments](https://www.houseup.co.uk/services/refurbishment-london) and even do some new things for the first time.

![BPM39-Victorian-Penthouse-London-Chiswick-Bathroom-Grey-Italian-Tiles-Porcelain-Mosaic-Niche-Bathtub-Tap-LED-Strip_scaled_Y.jpeg](/uploads/BPM_39_Victorian_Penthouse_London_Chiswick_Bathroom_Grey_Italian_Tiles_Porcelain_Mosaic_Niche_Bathtub_Tap_LED_Strip_scaled_Y_ddac94fadc.jpeg)

What Andrew says about us and his roof conversion
-------------------------------------------------

> Vincenzo and the team were enthusiastic, creative and engaged. They brought the project in on budget and I’m happy to recommend them. Their approach of having in-house structural engineering really helped make savings by integrating the disciplines involved with design and construction.

Check all the photos [here](https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/victorian-penthouse-chiswick-london) and get in touch to tell us what you think!

houseUP is a leading construction company in London. Learn how to create a grass terrace as part of your roof conversion in Chiswick.


Roof Development Chiswick - Case Study | HouseUP

Roof Development in Chiswick: the Transformation of a Victorian Property in the Bedford Park Conservation Area

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Book a chat with one of our traditional sash window specialist

Get In Touch

houseUP offer a range of traditional wooden sash window services that are ideal for listed or graded properties. Such as Victorian and Georgian houses.

Traditional Sash Windows in London | houseUP

Traditional Sash Windows in London

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<h2>Our traditional sash window services</h2>Traditional timber sash windows will offer elegance and refinement to both the façade and interior of your property. The beautiful aesthetic can reclaim the original period nature of the building and provide an interesting talking point.The exact origins of the sash window lack evidence and is therefore widely debated. Some historians suggest Holland in the 17th century, and some suggest France can lay claim to their invention. The French theory being rooted in etymology; 'sash' coming from the French chassis, meaning 'frame' in French. Others even argue that the Englishman and polymath, Robert Hooke was responsible.Whatever their beginnings, traditional sash windows grew in popularity during the Georgian and Victorian periods and was the most common construction method for windows at the turn of the 19th century. This trend was short-lived and with the introduction of hinged windows, around the start of the First World War, and they fell out of favour.A sash window consists of a number of glass panes in a grid formation and usually opens vertically at the top and the bottom. In essence, it works based on a system of weights and pulleys. A casement, or hinged window, usually consists of one pane and opens outwards. This comparative simplicity made the hinged window cheaper and easier to produce and install, which was crucial during the war-time period in London and why it overtook the sash in popularity.However, in recent years, with the growing desirability for period homes, the sash window has &nbsp;gained an iconic status. Not only are traditional wooden sash windows aesthetically pleasing from the inside and out, their installation, or restoration, is now a highly sought after feature by buyers, &nbsp;which consequently, increases the value of a property.At houseUP, we have limitless passion for period projects and reinstalling or restoring traditional sash windows is one of our services that brings us the most pleasure. As experts who work with skilled craftsman, we would love the opportunity to return your property to its original distinction and style.As well as more unique or completely bespoke services, some of our common requests for sash windows are:<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Box sash windows</li><li>Bay sash windows</li><li>Victorian and Georgian sash windows</li><li>Sash windows with shutters</li><li>Sash window restoration and repairs</li><li>Sash window sealing</li></ul><h2>How much do sash windows cost?</h2>Whether you are planning to install sash windows for the first time, replace existing sashes, repair or refurbish, one of our expert team will pay a site visit in order to make an assessment to better provide you with an accurate quote. All our projects are viewed as bespoke and are therefore, priced on an individual basis.Some of the factors we will assess are:<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>size of the window; height and width</li><li>type of window and complexity; box, bay or more uniquely shaped, i.e. arched, or swept head, and the number of panes desired&nbsp;materials; timber, uPVC, aluminium; timber is usually the most expensive and uPVC the least</li><li>type of finishes; i.e. decorative horns and fasteners</li><li>glazing; double, single, triple, secondary etc.</li><li>draught-proofing</li><li>number of windows requiring replacement throughout the property&nbsp;accessibility</li></ul>As an average guideline, we can suggest that replacing a simple (in terms of design), average-sized, double-glazed, timber sash window in London will cost approximately £1500.If your property is already blessed with sash windows, a more affordable option might be either restoration or refurbishment. This could involve stripping back paint, replacing or restoring rotting wood, and replacing sash cords and hardware. If required, installing double-glazing and adding draught-proofing can also be included. Depending on the amount of work necessary, costing begins at approximately £500.Although the initial outlay involved in window replacement or restoration may seem daunting, it is worth remembering that improved glazing and draught-proofing can improve household energy efficiency and therefore lower energy consumption and associated costs.<h2>Traditional sash windows and modern glazing</h2>Poor insulation in the form of ill-fitting windows, cracked panes of glass, or lack of seals could be responsible for high household energy consumption. Improving the efficiency of your windows through replacing shrunken, or rotten, timber frames; adding draught-proofing; and upgrading your glazing could see a significant reduction in your energy bill.To ensure your period property has its modern comforts, we provide the following glazing services with our installation if required:<h3>Double-glazed sash windows</h3>Providing the existing sash has a depth of at least 35mm, we can replace the current glass planes with double-glazing. If the sash is not the necessary depth, we might suggest crafting a new sash to fit the original frame. This is not only a way of preserving the history of the property, but more cost-effective than a full replacement, although we can offer this too.<figure class="image"><img src="/uploads/A7_A6546_1_de3ac9c169.jpg" alt="_A7A6546 (1).jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_A7_A6546_1_de3ac9c169.jpg 234w, /uploads/small_A7_A6546_1_de3ac9c169.jpg 500w, /uploads/medium_A7_A6546_1_de3ac9c169.jpg 750w, /uploads/large_A7_A6546_1_de3ac9c169.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure><h3>Triple-glazed sash windows</h3>As well as energy efficiency, triple-glazing offers effective acoustic reduction. However, where a 35mm depth in the original frame is required for double-glazing, 40mm is required for triple.<figure class="image"><img src="/uploads/604_HR_Front_room_bow_window_fireplace_reading_room_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_493a95b253.jpg" alt="604HR-Front-room-bow-window-fireplace-reading-room-Greenwich-town-house-with-basement-renovation.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_604_HR_Front_room_bow_window_fireplace_reading_room_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_493a95b253.jpg 234w, /uploads/small_604_HR_Front_room_bow_window_fireplace_reading_room_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_493a95b253.jpg 500w, /uploads/medium_604_HR_Front_room_bow_window_fireplace_reading_room_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_493a95b253.jpg 750w, /uploads/large_604_HR_Front_room_bow_window_fireplace_reading_room_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_493a95b253.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure><h3>Secondary glazing sash windows</h3>Where double-glazing is a single window comprising two panes of glass separated by an insulating gas, secondary glazing is additional window installed behind an existing window. As there is no alteration to the building's original design, this makes secondary glazing the ideal, and sometimes only, option for listed buildings or buildings in conservation areas. What's more, secondary glazing offers significant draught reduction and energy efficiency that surpasses double-glazing. It is also an effective acoustic insulator.It is even possible to layer a combination of glazing, i.e. double-glazing and secondary glazing to achieve dramatic results in noise reduction, draught reduction and energy-efficiency.&nbsp;<h2> Our bespoke sash windows</h2>The design for traditional box sash windows can be as simple or intricate as you can imagine. Typical requests in London tend to be trational Georgian sash windows, which are identified by their “six panes over six panes” and multiple glazing bars; or Victorian sash windows, which are “two panes over two panes”, resulting in a cross of glazing bars.However, if you are hoping for something truly unique and breathtaking, we are always excited by a challenge and can present to you a range of less familiar window shapes and styles. Your vision may be for a window with more or fewer panes, or a combination of more on top and fewer underneath; &nbsp;an arched shape, Gothic or Palladian; a bay, a box bay, a circle bay; a design with marginal bars and stained glass panes; the list goes on.Although arguably the most appealing draw to sash windows are their unparalleled beauty, it's not only about aesthetics. Once you have settled on a design, we can customise other features such as materials, efficiency and security.At the forefront of our values is sustainability in construction and preserving the environment. It's important to us as a company and a thought leader in our industry to use environmentally-friendly &nbsp;construction materials and be conscious of energy consumption. With this in mind, and if in alignment with your own values, we will opt for using sustainable timber and ensure the installation of your windows is as energy-efficient as possible.<figure class="image"><img src="/uploads/Kitchen_Gianna_1_7fa180088a.jpg" alt="Kitchen_Gianna-1.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_Kitchen_Gianna_1_7fa180088a.jpg 245w, /uploads/small_Kitchen_Gianna_1_7fa180088a.jpg 500w, /uploads/medium_Kitchen_Gianna_1_7fa180088a.jpg 750w, /uploads/large_Kitchen_Gianna_1_7fa180088a.jpg 1000w" sizes="100vw" width="1000"></figure><h2> The next step in sash window installation</h2>Whether you are in need of completely replacing the existing windows in your period property for elegant sashes with thermal reduction and reduced noise pollution, or hope to enhance the charm and appeal of your new build by installing a stunning set of wooden box sash windows, we want to guide you through that journey.Our property-centred and carefully planned projects use high quality, reliable and durable materials at &nbsp;competitive prices, ensuring not only a sought-after traditional aesthetic, but peace of mind in that your creation is long-lasting and value-adding. Our confirmed commitment to the best customer service reassures that we are reliable, approachable and provide excellent craftsmanship and care when it comes to sash window installation and restoration.With no obligation, we would like to hear any questions or concerns you have regarding sash windows, be it pricing, materials options, or length of the project, so that you and your property can experience the most beautiful, environmentally-considerate sash windows in London. View our workThis <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/4-storey-house-and-basement-renovation-in-greenwich-london">family townhouse in Greenwich</a> is still one of our favourite projects after several years.<img src="/uploads/708_conservation_windows_parquet_bespoke_wardrobe_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_e22eee3b15.jpg" alt="708-conservation-windows-parquet-bespoke-wardrobe-Greenwich-town-house-with-basement-renovation.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_708_conservation_windows_parquet_bespoke_wardrobe_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_e22eee3b15.jpg 234w,/uploads/small_708_conservation_windows_parquet_bespoke_wardrobe_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_e22eee3b15.jpg 500w,/uploads/medium_708_conservation_windows_parquet_bespoke_wardrobe_Greenwich_town_house_with_basement_renovation_e22eee3b15.jpg 750w," sizes="100vw" width="750px"> &nbsp;Coleherne Court is a very challenging place to install new windows, and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/coleherne-court-high-end-flat-renovation">this renovation</a> is one of our most recent completed projects.<img src="/uploads/Coleherne_Court_full_high_end_flat_refurbishment_living_room_sofa_open_space_359296351a.jpg" alt="Coleherne Court full high end flat refurbishment living room sofa open space.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_Coleherne_Court_full_high_end_flat_refurbishment_living_room_sofa_open_space_359296351a.jpg 234w,/uploads/small_Coleherne_Court_full_high_end_flat_refurbishment_living_room_sofa_open_space_359296351a.jpg 500w,/uploads/medium_Coleherne_Court_full_high_end_flat_refurbishment_living_room_sofa_open_space_359296351a.jpg 750w,/uploads/large_Coleherne_Court_full_high_end_flat_refurbishment_living_room_sofa_open_space_359296351a.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw" width="1000px">&nbsp;Traditional sash windows and a super sleek glass door are two of the features of this <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/victorian-penthouse-chiswick-london">roof development in Chiswick</a>.<figure class="image"><img alt="Chiswick Penthouse Traditional Sash Window.jpg" src="/uploads/Chiswick_Penthouse_Traditional_Sash_Window_0de4e650ac.jpg" srcset="/uploads/thumbnail_Chiswick_Penthouse_Traditional_Sash_Window_0de4e650ac.jpg 234w, /uploads/small_Chiswick_Penthouse_Traditional_Sash_Window_0de4e650ac.jpg 500w, /uploads/medium_Chiswick_Penthouse_Traditional_Sash_Window_0de4e650ac.jpg 750w" sizes="100vw" width="750"></figure>

The Old Foundry project in Long Melford, Suffolk, is the conversion of a Victorian building into 7 residential units, for a total of 7000 square feet, where we are giving new life to the local history and making new beautiful homes together.
In Long Melford, we are making the Old Foundry part of the local life again.

Note: now that the project is complete, you can have a look at the final result [here](https://www.houseup.co.uk/portfolio/the-old-foundry-conversion).

![The-Old-Foundry-Flints-and-Bricks-North-side-min.jpeg](/uploads/The_Old_Foundry_Flints_and_Bricks_North_side_min_52ff728ee0.jpeg)

## Using digital technology to renovate a Victorian building
During the site preparation we couldn’t wait to start the transformation, and finally we started the work! The progress is amazing and you cannot stop taking pictures from all angles.
It’s awesome how our technology is bringing a historical building back to life and to see our partners using our digital platform every day! We all follow the progress from remote, communicate on pictures and videos in real time, review the beautiful details of the old building together from different locations.

![The-Old-Foundry-Facade-from-North-East-min-1.jpeg](/uploads/The_Old_Foundry_Facade_from_North_East_min_1_b244d8875b.jpeg)

## Interior design that combines original Victorian features with Italian finishes
After each site visit, our imagination fires up higher, as we start to see with our eyes where the transformation will take us. We look at the plans and then at the bare walls and floors and windows, and visualise the Italian finishes in place. The delicate balance between the contrasting details comes from love and respect of the local history. The exclusive Italian kitchens and bathroom tiles will create a gentle contrast with the original materials and structure. We choose textures, colours and materials to highlight the original accents and give a fresh modern feeling to the final result.

## The Old Foundry heritage and conservation value and what it means to the local community
We shared some stories over lunch time in the local pub. Some still remember when the building was transformed into a fire station in 1958. That was when the wide opening in the facade was created, to allow the passage of the fire trucks. The opening that makes the look of the building so distinctive will be renovated but kept in the final conversion.

As reported in Long Melford website, the original foundry was established in 1843 by David Ward and his brother-in-law James Silver. The business grew and became quite important in the area, employing 63 men and 4 boys in 1881. Metal works with the Ward and Silver marks are still present and visible in town.

## The Old Foundry and the Victorian industrial architecture
### THE KING POST TRUSSES
The triangular king post trusses in the upper floor ceiling follow an engineering technique introduced in medieval times; they were common in Victorian times and are still used today. They allow large spaces needed for a workshop.
In the Old Foundry the vertical central posts are steel hooks attached to the roof ridge; massive screws are visible at the bottom, connecting the posts to the horizontal lower beams at the ceiling level.
You cannot stop craning your neck looking up at this testimony of human ingenuity, picturing the stunning contrast with the renovated spaces.

### THE FLINT AND BRICK WALLS
On a beautiful day, the charm of the Old Foundry is irresistible: the colours of the red bricks, the contrast with the blue sky, the wild ivy covering the flint and brick walls.
Romans introduced flints mixed with bricks in construction, as flints were sourced locally and were less expensive than cooked bricks. The technique is widely used in Victorian buildings. At the Old Foundry, the pattern of the walls has a simple geometric symmetry and a surprising smoothness at the touch. You cannot resist running your fingers on the coarse walls, and think about the people who built them and lived and worked seeing them every day.

### THE WALL TIE PLATES
If you look more closely, you’ll notice round large metal plates on the surface. It is a traditional construction technique that provides lateral constraint to the walls. The plates are are attached to a steel rod that goes inside the joist. They were probably added decades ago, when the ends of the horizontal floor joists started to rot.
You can’t help think that structural engineering is the most amazing science, defying centuries and bragging about its immortality to us and to the future generations.

Here at houseUP we specialise in alterations of buildings from 1800 and early 1900 that require structural modifications. Get in touch to learn more about us or to tell us about your project

The new life of The Old Foundry from its establishment in 1861 in Long Melford to today, and its conversion into 7 mews houses

The Old Foundry: the structural challenges of a Victorian conversion | HouseUp

The Old Foundry: a Victorian building conversion

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_We are working on a digital ecosystem that brings value to other operators in the industry and even our competitors._

_Mobile developers and digital service providers, with new services targeted both for business and consumer markets, will be able to access the construction market and be the key players in the digital construction transformation._

_Our applications focus on construction execution, enhanced with machine learning techniques and big data processing._

Digital construction is real
----------------------------

You might feel that Digital Construction has become only a buzzword but actually a lot of amazing things are happening.

Just taking the [Digital Construction Week](http://www.digitalconstructionweek.com/home) event in London as an example:

* **Building Information Modelling (BIM)** integrated with collaboration and workflow tools
* **IoT** with intelligent sensors that retrieve information from buildings and construction sites for monitoring purposes
* **SmartHome and SmartBuilding** with digital devices integrated in buildings to be part of the overall digital experience of their users and improve their life
* **Virtual reality** solutions that allow digital exploration of buildings and other spaces
* **Innovative construction techniques** like modular and offsite construction and even 3D printing

Construction work and execution are areas full of opportunities to generate value that are still completely unexplored.

Digital Technology for Construction Projects On Site
----------------------------------------------------

A big gap in the current development on digital construction is about actual construction execution. All operators in the industry know that the construction execution can become a value black-hole. The opportunities envisioned during the design are often dramatically downsized by the practicalities of the implementation.

Understanding and optimising the construction execution are crucial:  

* for investors and clients to correctly evaluate risks of investments and their return
* for governments and public institutions to allocate budget for construction projects with confidence on the reliability of total cost and delivery date
* for construction companies to make a fair profit from projects of all sizes
* for financial service providers, from first-buyer mortgages to multi-billion project investments
* for all providers of disparate services for the industry

> Cost estimation accuracy, risk management reliability, budget management and project execution efficiency generate value from the construction execution.

Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence For Construction
-------------------------------------------------------------

Any data related to construction, projects, costs, planning, property prices and more contribute to build a big set of data to learn from.  

All data can be used to identify patterns and support decision making. A lot is already publicly available but not in an API-ready format, that is not directly consumable by software and applications; even more can be collected:

* planning permissions from councils
* past selling prices of plots of land and buildings from the land registry
* physical mapping of the UK territory from private companies, free, open or paid for  
    
* retrospective data on past projects that were funded by public institutions
* past, current and future data about privately funded construction projects

All those data and more can be used to identify trend patterns and implement machine learning mechanisms to support and optimise the construction execution. Plus, data can be aggregated to extract value in new ways, opening the market to new operators.

> New business models are available, opening the market to mobile developers, web service providers, tech communities and more.

A Digital Ecosystem For The Construction Industry
-------------------------------------------------

![The-digital-revolution-in-construction-you-still-havent-heard-of-19.png](/uploads/The_digital_revolution_in_construction_you_still_havent_heard_of_19_ff4c694766.png)

With open API’s accessible by private and public companies and independent software developers, the potential to build original business models on the ecosystem is infinite.  
houseUP vertical applications are focused on construction in all its aspects, but there are endless business cases to be exploited.  
Using trend patterns pulled from the platform, new business opportunities open up, for example:

* create web sites for property developers, where they can browse areas and types of projects that are most remunerative
* develop mobile apps where people can submit construction projects for crowd funding and shared profits
* integrate with existing digital tools to show ads with materials and finishes in real time, according to the type and phase of a construction project
* integrate with other data from different sources, like weather forecast, web semantics searches, traffic data etc to increase the accuracy of planning and more

The Construction Industry Is Ripe For Innovative Disruption
-----------------------------------------------------------

According to [a report by McKinsey & Company](https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/capital-projects-and-infrastructure/our-insights/imagining-constructions-digital-future), agriculture and hunting are the only sectors with a lower digitalisation index than the construction industry.

Opportunities are endless and many companies currently offer digital solutions for the industry and new developments happen every day.

Even Blockchain technology is seen by some as a way to secure the workflow and assign accountability to architects, engineers and other roles involved in the design.

Making Execution A Key Link In The Value Chain
----------------------------------------------

The construction execution is now the weakest link in the construction value chain. The high risk related to execution undermines investors’ confidence and often construction companies are forced to take on most of the risk related to the execution.

> There is huge value to extract from the execution phase:

* **high efficiency** in the project execution lowers the costs of construction
* **accurate estimations** allow more reliable and less strict risk management policies
* public institutions allocate **budget and plan** initiatives more reliably
* access to data and knowledge and more **business opportunities** open up the market to more and diverse operators, beyond the current big investors
* construction companies are more efficient  and **reduce the risk of job losses**
* the open ecosystem improves the common perception of the industry, enhancing the communication towards large **non-business audiences**
* crowd funding sites and mobile apps help bridge the gap between operators with large funds and small economical actors, to **access the industry opportunities**

![The-digital-revolution-in-construction-you-still-havent-heard-of-16.png](/uploads/The_digital_revolution_in_construction_you_still_havent_heard_of_16_4bf5d0833c.png)

True Digital Transformation Attracts New Operators And New Business Models To The Construction Industry
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Mobile developers and software houses, with new services targeted both for business and consumer markets, are the key factors in the digital revolution, as they have been in the past in other markets.

Banking, travel, hospitality, retail shopping: open digital enablers turned those markets upside down, changing our life forever. It will happen for construction and build environment, with great opportunities for many.

Join Us And Let’s Make It Happen
--------------------------------

* Are you designing or developing a digital service for the construction industry?
* Was your business impacted by the digitalisation in construction?
* Do you want to share your point of view on digital construction with a guest post on our site?
* Do you know about initiatives or events where we should be taking this conversation?
* Do you know individuals or institutions we should be in touch with to start making things real?

HouseUP is a leading construction company in London. Join us in building a digital ecosystem for the future of the construction industry

An open ecosystem for the digital future of construction | HouseUP

The digital future of construction: an open ecosystem and focus on execution

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_The [Women in Construction Summit](https://www.womeninconstructionsummit.com/?utm_campaign=WiC18-houseup-03012018&utm_medium=media%20partner&utm_source=WiC18) is a ground-breaking conference for women in the construction industry, dedicated to the progression and development of women in this sector._

The Gender Gap In Construction
------------------------------

As women have long been under-represented in the construction industry, the Women in Construction Summit aims to level the playing field, promote women in the industry and drive gender equality to the top of the sector’s agenda; but also, enable the networking needs of the women working in this industry. Indeed, the summit’s ambition is to create a platform that aids in the development and representation of women.

Construction is a major pillar of the UK’s economy, employing around 2.1 million people. But women make up just 11% of this industry and are paid 12% less, on average, than men doing the same job.

Why We Should Care About Gender Equality In Construction
--------------------------------------------------------

It’s 2018, yet women still face discrimination in many aspects in the industry. Indeed women are side-lined in construction and it’s time to tackle the male-dominated image of the industry.

> Gender diversity can help solve today’s biggest issues in construction such as the digital transformation, sustainability and the future impact under Brexit.

A McKinsey January 2015 [report](http://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/organization/our-insights/why-diversity-matters) found that gender-diverse companies are 15% more likely to outperform companies rated in the bottom quartile of diversity.

> Companies that embrace gender diversity perform better than those that don’t.

Gender diversity also means diversity of ideas and solutions for a company.

Gender Equality And houseUP
---------------------------

The digital construction company houseUP has been prioritising gender diversity within its team by providing equal opportunities for women and lets them use their talents in the workforce.  
Very early on, houseUP realised that gender diversity within the team enables the collective genius of the organization.

As a result, joining a community of like-minded people working across the construction industry and taking part in the discussions on best practices for improving diversity and inclusion was fundamental for the company.

> houseUP’s representative Melissa Amouny added: “We need more women leaders and the best way to fight gender inequality is by moving the conversation forward and bringing to light why gender equality is important for everyone, not just women.”

Be inspired and supercharge your career! Join us on the 6th March 2018 at the [Women in Construction Summit](https://www.womeninconstructionsummit.com/?utm_source=WiC18&utm_medium=media%20partner&utm_campaign=WiC18-houseup-03012018) using our exclusive discount code HOUSEUP15.  
houseUP is a construction company that carries out a range of projects for a variety of clients. Plus, designing and developing a multi-purpose digital platform that is based on openness and community development. The company’s digital angle focuses on construction execution, enhanced with machine learning techniques and big data processing.

**houseUP is proud partner of the Women in Construction Summit 2018.**

HouseUP is a leading construction company in London. We sponsor initiatives in support of gender diversity in construction


HouseUP is partner of the Women in Construction Summit 2018 | HouseUP

Women in Construction: London Summit 2018

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##### A series of portraits of fellow women in construction in celebration of the Women in Construction Summit in London

Sasha is a young woman, shy and polite. I know her from a construction site, and still it’s difficult to picture her in the midst of all that rubble, noise, dust and mess. So I expect tales of struggle and frustration from her experience on the job.

> “I never felt discriminated because I am a woman” she surprises me instead “I am very young and I feel it’s more my age that makes people think I might not be competent yet”.

#### How it all started

Aliaksandra (Sasha) studied Interior Architecture in London and keeps working on her education and qualifications. She works with her father and feels she’s always known buildings and how they work.

She’s from Belarus and feels that her home country and upbringing was the first challenge for her. “My grandmother did not want me to work in construction, it’s a man’s job, she said”.

![sasha_1-min-1287x1500.jpeg](/uploads/sasha_1_min_1287x1500_4e2eb6ec9f.jpeg)

Photo credit to Alessandra Fraissinet

#### A woman on the job

Starting from there, she’s always felt that being a woman was more a challenge than an impediment; “It made me work harder for what I want to do”.

Sasha says she never really experienced sexism at work. She uses her technical knowledge and language to set things straight from the beginning and she’s always managed to earn the trust of co-workers and clients.

The only time she felt people were treating her differently because she is a woman was when she did building works at her own place. “Workers would never listen to me and always waited for instructions from my husband” she remembers “but he doesn’t have a clue about construction!”.

It’s one of the few moments in our conversation when she lets her frustration get through.

#### It’s a brand new generation

> “New generations are more open, and internet and social media have a big role in opening people to different worlds and new ways of thinking”.

This is also how she contributes to the cause, sharing her experience with as many people as possible, telling her story, posting pictures of herself at work. “If someone gives me a pink helmet when I enter a construction site, well… why not? We shouldn’t overthink and see sexism everywhere!”

Sasha thinks that policies that enforce diversity and representation are a good thing, because there is no better route to equality than proving how good women are on the job.

> “Men must get used to work side by side with women; once they see by themselves that their bias makes no sense, things will start to change”.

At first I am skeptical; of course there is a lot that Sasha has not experienced yet and probably she’ll change her mind along the way.

But while we say goodbye I realise Sasha is fierce and strong and knows what she wants. And maybe she is right, things are changing faster than we, the older generation, are able to understand.

![WiC2019-Speakers-min.jpeg](/uploads/Wi_C2019_Speakers_min_ed165228df.jpeg)

_We’re excited to be supporting [Women in Construction Summit 2019](https://goo.gl/Y4Y8cN) on the 16th May in London – brought by creators of the Women in Construction World Series._

_Use our exclusive discount code **HOUSEUP15** and [get 15% off tickets](https://goo.gl/nkaMhL) for Europe’s largest women in construction event!_

Women in Construction in London: Sasha shares her thoughts on how being a woman impacts her join in the construction industry as an architectural designer

Sasha talks about being Women in Construction in London | HouseUp

Women in Construction in London: Sasha

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##### A series of portraits of fellow women in construction in celebration of the Women in Construction Summit in London

Ruta Benetyte is a concentrate of energy with a contagious smile. As it happens with bright people, the conversation took off about work and it took quite the effort to steer back to our topic.

#### How it all started

Ruta is from Lithuania and moved to the UK to study architecture at 17 years old, and now leads [Vita Architecture](http://www.vitaarchitecture.com/) with her business partner Ben Lee. She also teaches architecture in Lithuania.

> Teaching helps me keep involved with new things coming into construction, as well as sharing experience and knowledge with others.

![Ruta_1-min.jpeg](/uploads/Ruta_1_min_01f01b1dfc.jpeg)

Ruta Benetyte in her office at Vita Architecture - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

She grew up in a family where she never felt that being a woman could make a difference in what opportunities she would have in her future life.

#### The moment of realisation

In a way she was lucky, probably because of her strong character and her amazing physical presence, that allows her to tower over the listener. She never felt uncomfortable or out of place when working in an environment where almost anybody else is a man.

> It’s more of an afterthought, when you rethink of a conversation or a meeting and you realise something sexist happened.

It happens with clients, I remind her of a conversation we had months ago. There are times where people call in and assume she is her business partner’s secretary; or a client keeps reaching out to Ben, even if she’s the one who did all the work on their project.

#### Gender equality is a responsibility of the whole society

At work, she thinks the mentality must change.

> Even when it is not openly stated, employers still have the feeling that a woman won’t have as much time to dedicate to her career as a man will.

She agrees with corporate policies that try to break the bias, conscious or not, to improve representation of women and to increase diversity in general: “It’s an unfortunate necessity”. But government and institutions must do more: society should invest in women who have children. How can a society even have a future if we don’t support mothers?

> Society, as a whole, has a responsibility to encourage women to grow and contribute their skills and knowledge to the world. Restricting women, restricts 50% of creativity and contribution.

![Ruta_2-min-1234x1500.jpeg](/uploads/Ruta_2_min_1234x1500_c5b3327563.jpeg)

Ruta Benetyte - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

And yet, even women without children who dedicate all their life to work still struggle.

> Women reason differently, be it by nature or nurture. We research more thoroughly, we want to cover all the basis before asserting ourselves, we are more diplomatic.

She says: “That can be a disadvantage, can be perceived as a weakness. But it’s the way the workplace has developed over the years that we should change.”. Instead of forcing women to conform to set traditional institutional rules, it is important to integrate their perspective and outlook on how business could be managed, as the diversity encourages growth.

#### We don’t want to be superheroes

“Examples of successful women are often depicted as superheroes” and we laugh, and I am thinking no, who wants to be a superhero? I bet she’s thinking the same.

> Men and women should just support each other.

Yes. That sounds like the right thing to do.

I run to my next meeting. On the pavement we hug, and I walk away smiling, thinking of how Ruta has to bend, to reach down to my short self, and wishing we had more time to chat. She planted so many new thoughts in my mind.

![WiC-social-image-01-min.jpeg](/uploads/Wi_C_social_image_01_min_66fad88785.jpeg)

_We’re excited to be supporting [Women in Construction Summit 2019](https://goo.gl/Y4Y8cN) on the 16th May in London – brought by creators of the Women in Construction World Series._

_Use our exclusive discount code **HOUSEUP15** and [get 15% off tickets](https://goo.gl/nkaMhL) for Europe’s largest women in construction event!_

Women in Construction in London: Ruta talks about gender equality and how men and women need to support each other in this journey

Ruta talks about being Women in Construction in London | HouseUp

Women in Construction in London: Ruta

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##### A series of portraits of fellow women in construction in celebration of the Women in Construction Summit in London

The impression I get sitting down with Emanuela is that she just pushed obstacles away all her life. The sheer power of her will seems to be able to do that.

#### What it means to be a woman in construction

Emanuela Borri is a RIBA architect in force of [Urbanist Architecture](https://urbanistarchitecture.co.uk/) in London and she’s one of those people who shifts the energy in a room around her.

“I find we women are more diplomatic and that can make a big difference, to make things happen” she says.

> The passion that we feel for our job makes us stronger.

Emanuela always wanted to be an architect and construction is a business that runs in her family.

> I never really experienced sexism at work. The big issues to overcome were more about coming from a different country and education system and building a career in the UK.

She thinks that being a woman probably helped her. “At the very beginning of my career it was hard to get my voice heard, even if I had the role” she recalls “but I reckon the issue was the lack of experience”. With time she turned it into a way to improve herself. “Those obstacles taught me how to manage certain situations and learn from them”.

![Emanuela_1-min.jpeg](/uploads/Emanuela_1_min_8b9149af75.jpeg)

Emanuela Borri in her office at Urbanist Architecture - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

#### Being a woman at work

“Maybe that is the difference between women and men at work” she thinks out loud. “we might choose different ways to approach a problem, but there is no difference between men’s and women’s results”.

She talks about the vibe at the studio. She says of her work environment:

> I really feel the studio and the directors support me

And if you look at the office, you can see the evidence there, with the majority of the desks occupied by women.

Still, I cannot refrain from teasing this optimism a little bit. Think of the data, think of what is out there for women in this industry.

Emanuela agrees. “I know of friends or ex colleagues who have bad stories to tell” she says “and I myself experienced some awkward moments in interviews.” When something like this happened to her, she steered away from the toxicity and kept looking, she says.

#### We choose to be strong

She seems so relaxed and unfazed mentioning those episodes, so I keep pushing. Doesn’t make you angry, I ask, that those things happen?

> I am not wasting years of sacrifice and hard work, whatever happens. I always think I will find a way.

She looks me in the eye, and the sheer energy makes me blink. “I would choose this career over and over. I am hungry for more. More challenges, more knowledge. I keep working hard, to move on, to move forward”.

![Emanuela_2-min.jpeg](/uploads/Emanuela_2_min_76337acc13.jpeg)

Emanuela Borri - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

I leave between a hug and two kisses, the Italian way, walking into this strange February spring.

Once again, I leave with a lot of food for thought. Can a woman in this industry have such a simple life? And yet, beyond the things that she said, I finally see it. Emanuela is one of those women who chooses self confidence, who chooses to think she can overcome any issue. Working hard, always learning. Oh yes! I straighten my shoulders, lift my chin, walk into the sunshine, trying to be a bit more like Emanuela from now on.

![WomenInConstructionBanner-min.jpeg](/uploads/Women_In_Construction_Banner_min_2da6c6f956.jpeg)

_We’re excited to be supporting [Women in Construction Summit 2019](https://goo.gl/Y4Y8cN) on the 16th May in London – brought by creators of the Women in Construction World Series._

_Use our exclusive discount code **HOUSEUP15** and [get 15% off tickets](https://goo.gl/nkaMhL) for Europe’s largest women in construction event!_

Women in Construction in London: Emanuela and her experience as an architect and how important it is that companies promote and support equality

Emanuela talks about being Women in Construction in London | HouseUp

Women in Construction in London: Emanuela

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##### A series of portraits of fellow women in construction in celebration of the Women in Construction Summit in London

I cannot wait to interview Nicky because she’s one of those people who leave you recharged and relaxed and happier. She’s a storm, but a sunny one.

Nicky Thompson is a business development manager for [Tucker Consultancy Ltd](https://www.tuckers.co.uk/), a company specialised in building services engineering design.

#### FROM A WOMAN IN TECH TO A WOMAN IN CONSTRUCTION

“But I never planned to enter the construction industry” she explains. Nicky worked for Internet Service Providers at the very beginning of the internet era.

> I have always been attracted to things that are more traditionally seen as a men’s thing

She loves cars and old aircrafts. “I can identifying older aircraft – Spitfires, Mustangs, WW2 Bombers. It’s one of those passions I’ve had forever”.

She thinks that maybe those different interests helped her blend in more easily in male oriented work environments.

> Maybe my interests made it easier for men to see me as one of them

And it might be one of the reasons why she rarely experienced sexism in her career.

![Nicky_1-min_scaled.jpeg](/uploads/Nicky_1_min_scaled_ab8bbab88b.jpeg)

Nicky Thompson - photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

But there are some situations, she says, where she chose to simply steer away. “When men are in groups, it is harder to break the ice and say hello”. I know exactly what she is talking about.

So you feel the discomfort sometimes, I pry. How do you feel about it?

> Sometimes I feel there is too much hype around the women’s issues and probably all the noise is not always helping the cause.

#### EQUALITY IS LARGER THAN WOMEN’S CAUSE

For Nicky, we shouldn’t only think of equality for women in construction. She adds “It’s not only about women and their rights. Truth is that teams are stronger when they are made of mixed diverse people”.

> I totally agree on affirmative policies, not only for women but for all underrepresented groups

What should we do to make that happen, I ask. “You know, sometimes I think I would love to just meet a group of women who would like to join this industry, but are a bit afraid because it is male orientated.”

> I would take them by the hand and say, we can do it! Come with me, I will show you. It’s good, it’ll be fun, trust me!

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Nicky Thompson - photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

It’s time to run to our next appointments. We hug, we kiss, we laugh. And walking away, as usual I replay our conversation in my mind. Could Nicky be right? is there too much hype around women’s issues?

#### Working for equality with no labels

I start thinking about how I felt when I was very young, being a woman who wanted to do men’s things. I dreamt of being a footballer and a lawyer, not a female footballer, not a female lawyer. And somehow Nicky reminds me of my younger self. She doesn’t want to think of herself as a woman-something. She thinks of herself as a person who loves what she does and is very good at it. No other label. Which is what really feminism is about. Being able to think like Nicky, all of us.

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_We’re excited to be supporting [Women in Construction Summit 2019](https://goo.gl/Y4Y8cN) on the 16th May in London – brought by creators of the Women in Construction World Series._

_Use our exclusive discount code **HOUSEUP15** and [get 15% off tickets](https://goo.gl/nkaMhL) for Europe’s largest women in construction event!_

Women in Construction in London: Nicky tells how she moved from working in tech in the early days of the internet to construction

Nicky talks about being Women in Construction in London | HouseUp

Women in Construction in London: Nicky

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Do I need a party wall agreement for a loft conversion?

This is a question that our clients always ask when doing a loft conversion. It can also apply to any other extension work.

If your loft has a adjoining properties, you must have a party wall agreement in place with your neighbours, according to the Party Wall Act 1996. The act always applies if you need to work on a shared wall or other shared structures.

This is very often the case for loft conversions and other extensions, because the party walls are usually the best option as load bearing walls. The reason is that party wall don’t have openings like windows or doors, so they make for the most solid choice for a load bearing wall.

Party wall agreements must be in place with all the leaseholders and the freeholder of the adjoining properties.

#### **How to find a party wall surveyor**

You can find a party wall surveyor from the pages of the [Faculty of party wall surveyors](https://fpws.org.uk/find-a-surveyor-2/).

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What is a party wall?
---------------------

A wall is a party wall if it stands astride the boundary of land belonging to two (or more) different owners. This definition often applies to adjoining houses like terraced or semi-detached houses. A wall is also considered a party wall if it is shared with other owners, as in the case of ceiling and floor of two properties, one below the other.

As a general rule, a wall is a party wall whenever a damage to that wall, or structure in general, could damage other owners’ properties. For example, when excavation is required, the party wall can apply to properties that are up to a 6m distance from the place of excavation.

What is the Party Wall Act 1996?
--------------------------------

The Party Wall Act etc 1996 provides a Building Owner, who wishes to carry out various sorts of work to an existing party wall, with additional rights going beyond ordinary common law rights.

All the details on party walls and if and when you need a party wall agreement can be found in the [Party Wall etc. Act 1996](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/preventing-and-resolving-disputes-in-relation-to-party-walls/the-party-wall-etc-act-1996-explanatory-booklet). It is meant to prevent and resolve disputes between neighbours when works on adjoining properties are carried out by the owners.

The Party Wall Act regulates the legal process to inform the affected parties about planned building works that affect shared structures, the timing, the form and the rights and duties of each party involved.

Under the Party Wall Act, building owners who intends to carry out building works involving existing party walls have to inform the adjoining owners about the work. A party wall agreement is the consent to the works given by the parties involved.

What is a party wall agreement?
-------------------------------

The party wall agreement is a written consent by neighbours on the building works you intend to carry out. Adjustments in the timing and manner of the works might be requested by the neighbours to reach the agreement.

The Party Wall Act prescribes that you inform your neighbours of the works you intend to carry out. This is done serving a party wall notice, that must include:

* your own name and address
* the address of the building to be worked on
* a full description of what you propose to do, that might use plans and drawings
* when you propose to start

You can produce and serve this document or you can use a party wall surveyor to represent you. Your neighbours can also appoint a surveyor. In general, you will need to meet all the costs for surveyors, including your neighbours’.

For loft conversions, the notice must be served at least 2 months before the planned start of the works.

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Do I need a party wall agreement for a loft conversion?
-------------------------------------------------------

When planning a loft conversion, you will need a party wall agreement if you are going to work on any element that belongs to one or more adjoining properties.

Examples of work on a party wall for a loft conversion that will require a party wall agreement:

* Cut the wall and use it as a load bearing wall for a beam
* Insert a damp course proof for the whole length of the wall
* Demolish and rebuild part of the wall
* Increase the thickness or the height of the wall
* Cut projections off the party wall
* Remove a chimney breast from a party wall
* Underpin the whole thickness of the party wall

Can I do a loft conversion without a party wall agreement?
----------------------------------------------------------

It is possible that you won’t need a party wall agreement for a loft conversion. In general, you won’t need it if the works are not going to involve a wall that is shared with an adjoining property.

An agreement is not needed if:

* The loft is being built on top of a stand alone or detached house
* The beam to support the loft conversion is placed over a column built for the purpose, instead of placing it inside the party wall

In the latter case, the beam is placed on two opposing walls that are not party walls. We used this solution for one of our projects, where the party wall process was particularly complicated.

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Issuing a party wall notice
---------------------------

As mentioned, you can create and serve the party wall notice yourself. You will need to include:

* your own name and address
* the address of the building to be worked on
* a full description of what you propose to do, that might use plans and drawings
* when you propose to start

It is advisable you clearly state that the letter is a party wall notice.

You may deliver the notice in person, send it by post, or send it by email. If you do not have the details of the owner, you can deliver it to the property and address it to The owner of the property at that address.

### Party wall agreement template

Templates of party wall notices are available for free from many sources online. You can download our [Party wall notice for loft conversions template](https://www.houseup.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/houseUP-website-clean-Party_Structure_Notice-with-positive-reply.doc).

To make the process smoother, it includes the positive acknowledgment response, to be sent together with the notice.

### How long in advance do I need to serve the notice?

The term to serve the notice is at least two months before the starting date. The notice is only valid for a year, so it’s better to serve it not too long before you wish to start.

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### What happens after I serve the notice?

Your neighbours have several options after they receive your party wall notice:

* give consent in writing
* refuse to consent to the works proposed
* do nothing

If nothing happens after 14 days or your neighbour refuses, it is considered as a dispute happening and a party wall award is required and surveyors need to be appointed.

#### Approval

If your neighbour gives consent in writing, you can proceed with your planned works. It is advisable to assess the current status of the party wall on your neighbours’ side, taking pictures as evidence. This helps in case disputes arise later, after the works have started.

You can do this yourself or appoint a surveyor to do so.

It is possible that your neighbours appoint a surveyor to assess the existing status.

#### Refusal

If your neighbour dissents or doesn’t reply in 14 days, you will need to appoint a surveyor to draw up a Party Wall Award.

The best option is to have an Agreed Surveyor. Alternatively, you will appoint a surveyor each.  The two appointed surveyors will select a third surveyor, who would be called in only if the two appointed surveyors cannot agree or either of the owners or either surveyor calls upon the third surveyor to make an award.

In all cases, the surveyors have the duty to resolve matters in a fair and practical way.

#### How to find a party wall surveyor

You can find a party wall surveyor from the pages of the [Faculty of party wall surveyors](https://fpws.org.uk/find-a-surveyor-2/).

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Loft conversion with houseUP
----------------------------

In houseUP we can help to make your loft conversion process easier. Our experience covers all types of [loft conversions in London](https://www.houseup.co.uk/loft-conversions-london/).

Contact us for **free advice** on how to sort out issues with party wall agreements and loft conversions in London.

Find out if you need a party wall agreement for a loft conversion. This guide provides key details from The Party Wall Act. 1996 and more. Read more here.

Party Wall Agreements for Loft Conversions | Guide | houseUP

Party Wall Agreements for Loft Conversions, a Detailed Guide

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##### A series of portraits of fellow women in construction in celebration of the Women in Construction Summit in London

I meet Francesca and Asua in a bar in London, and I am late. The air is cold and we are on a roof-top, so the conversations starts with me recovering from running up the stairs. To earn some time, I ask them how they chose their career.

Francesca and Asua, architects and women
----------------------------------------

Francesca was always good with maths and physics, but wanted something more creative, so she chose Engineering Architecture.

Asua had her own interior decorating business and went to university to study Interior Design; but she got in to the wrong lecture, it was architecture and she fell in love.

They work in the same firm in North London. Asua joined 2 years ago, while Francesca came along after 1 year.  There are 11 women and 5 men in the practice. That sounds super good to me, but Francesca and Asua explain that things are not as good as they may sound.

> They like to think of themselves as committed for gender equality, but sometimes the reality is a little different.

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Francesca and Asua - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

Socialiasing after work and the challenges for women
----------------------------------------------------

Asua mentions how she has found that often in practices, including this one, the ability to socialise with directors can make a big difference. Whether it’s joining football teams, the ability to play golf or even the ability to regularly go to the pub till late after work. This is something not open to all, especially women and especially if you have kids and are the main care giver.  
And the fact that there is a woman in the high rankings is not substantial, they say. She doesn’t have the real power that her job title would suggest. As it often happens, Asua explains, women who are promoted in high positions have a hard time to fit in and must be very careful to invest their influential capital at work.

The struggle to push for change
-------------------------------

It would probably be easier to improve and learn, Francesca adds, if only we could speak more openly about sexism’

> We also have on us the extra pressure, of not sounding bitter or too confrontational, if we want to progress.

“If you want things to change you need to use what you have” says Asua “ you have to understand hierarchy and pick your battles”. It is difficult to prove sexism at work, I comment, there is always something else that can justify the decisions.

“I know that during job interviews I have to convey the idea that I am ok, that I won’t be any potential trouble” she says. Women have to prove that they can do the job where as men have to prove that they can’t.  “Once you get the job, you find a way to communicate when certain behaviours are sexist” Asua adds.

> Sexism is often subtle, so the response needs to be subtle, too.

Culture, mindset and competition at work
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Unfortunately men still have more initiative, Asua says. If they have a good idea they are more likely to go ahead with it, while women often feel they have to ask for permission before they can just go ahead and do it.

> Women are taught that hard work will make their career, men grow up being taught that putting themselves forward will make their career.

I agree that for women and their struggle for equality, the issues are on both sides. It’s the industry and the employers, who want women to fit in old fashioned roles, but it’s also hard for women to move on from those comfort zones.

“Every time I see a good project assigned to a man, I stop before judging, because bias is everywhere, even in myself sometimes.” Asua adds.

Francesca and Asua - Photo credits to Alessandra Fraissinet

We keep talking, exchanging stories from the office, and the time flies. Asua and Francesca sound very determined and passionate, and it’s clear they love their job but there are so many things they think should change.

Have you thought of moving to another firm? I ask. Actually the environment at work is very good, Francesca says.  
We realise we’ve been talking about the things that they don’t like, there. But it’s a great place to be, explains Francesca.

> It’s a small practice where we have the chance to change things.

The directors might not be there yet, but things  have definitely improved and they like the idea of being diverse and open. That is a great place to start, to advocate for women equality and equality in general, Asua adds.  
We go back, talking about how women must find the right ways to improve sexism at work, to be effective.

The duty to represent
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Asua mentions her son, who is at university, and probably the first black person that some of his fellow students have interacted with in their lives. “I always remind him that we represent.”

> Whatever we do, it will be what those students will associate with black people. So we have a duty to represent in a positive way while being mindful of the stereotypes they already have in their minds.

As a black woman in architecture, that is even harder. “I have met very few black architects in my career, especially at director level, probably one, and definitely I have never met another black female architect” Asua says. Have I? Probably not, I try to recall. Looking at Francesca I realise she’s probably doing the same. And I read on her face that Asua is the only black architect she’s met, just like me.

We check the time and we realise we’ve been talking for hours, and it’s time to leave. Hugs and smiles, and then we all go in different directions. I leave with food for thought, as usual.

Lead the change by example
--------------------------

I take longer than usual to go back and review my notes from the interview. It was a long conversation full of important things. But after weeks, two ideas keep coming back to me. One is of strength and resilience, to try to change things, resisting the easy solution of moving elsewhere.

And then those words, we represent. Do we really represent for social categories? When we were sitting at that table, I was sure that we don’t and we shouldn’t. But since my conversation with Francesca and Asua, I realise those words don’t fade and truly changed my perspective.

I promise myself I will learn from Francesca and Asua, who choose to stay and fight, who choose the responsibility to represent good and to be an example.

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_We’re excited to be supporting [Women in Construction Summit 2019](https://goo.gl/Y4Y8cN) on the 16th May in London – brought by creators of the Women in Construction World Series._

_Use our exclusive discount code **HOUSEUP15** and [get 15% off tickets](https://goo.gl/nkaMhL) for Europe’s largest women in construction event!_

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Francesca and Asua talk about their experience as Women in Construction, in celebration of our partnership with Women in Construction summit in London

Francesca and Asua talk about being Women in Construction in London | HouseUp

Women in Construction in London: Francesca and Asua

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How sustainable are common construction materials in the UK? Learn about the impact of common building materials and some sustainable alternatives. Read more.

Sustainable Construction Materials | houseUP

Sustainable Construction Materials

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<h2>Why use sustainable construction materials?</h2>With topics such as 'environmental impact' and 'climate change' so prevalent in today's global conversation, there are few who need persuading when it comes to sustainability. We are all making small personal changes to reduce our carbon footprint on a day to day scale, from choosing to drive an electric car to using a bamboo toothbrush, and feel relatively reassured that we are making a positive contribution to a global issue. However, when it comes to undertaking &nbsp;project known to have a hugely negative impact on the planet, it is even more important to be making conscientious decisions.By choosing to use sustainable building materials and environmentally friendly construction methods, we are making a long term commitment to:<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>preserving the longevity of our planet and all its inhabitants</li><li>protecting and preserving the ecosystem&nbsp;</li><li>maintaining a cleaner environment through minimising waste and reducing carbon emissions</li></ul>We also benefit on a personal level through:<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>decreasing construction costs through the use of reclaimed, recycled, re-useable materials</li><li>lowering maintenance and operational costs through employing more durable, long-lasting materials and more energy efficient systems&nbsp;</li><li>having a clear conscience</li></ul>With so many advantages to sustainable construction and building methods, there is little argument for the use of less green approaches and materials. houseUP is one of London's environmentally-focussed construction companies who are striving to reduce the industry's negative impact on the planet, and in particular the 10% of carbon dioxide emissions in the UK it is directly responsible for. By guiding renovation projects and offering advice, we can help you navigate your way through a greener build and to a more energy-efficient, future-proof property.<h2> How sustainable are construction materials?</h2>The Pantheon, The Great Pyramid of Giza and the Taj Mahal were all built using concrete, stone or masonry brick. The longevity of these famous structures make these building materials the three &nbsp;most popular throughout history and today.However, today we ought to be considering not only their durability, but their embodied carbon.<ol><li>Concrete – used in large quantities for laying foundations, exterior surfaces and floors. The production of cement, one of the components of concrete, is an intense process with a high impact on the environment. Firstly, it's a large producer of CO2. Secondly, it also consumes large quantities of water- a 10th of the world's industrial water use. However, due to its lower embodied energy compared to some other materials, its long life and comparable energy-efficiency, concrete retains its popularity as a construction material. &nbsp;</li><li>Steel – used for purposes such as structural frames, reinforcing foundations and cladding. As one of the most recyclable materials on the planet, steel is known for its sustainability. Some steel mills only use scrap to produce new steel and some even use the process gases to fuel other processes within the mill. &nbsp;This minimises waste and avoids importing natural gases from outside sources. Essentially, the reuse and recycling of steel is a fairly low impact process on the environment. It is also an energy-efficient insulator.</li><li>Wood – used for the construction of walls, floors and ceilings, wall and door frames, interior decorating finishes and more. Well-managed, certified forests provide timber and ensure that deforestation concerns are reduced. Wood contributes positively to the environment due to its absorption of carbon dioxide while growing, and this, in some cases of fast-drying timber in particular, can mean than the production and transport emissions throughout its lifecycle can be offset. Furthermore, wood at its end-of-life can be easily reclaimed, repurposed and recycled.</li><li>Stone – used in walls and flooring, damp proofing, interior decorating finishes. Natural stone such as sandstone, granite, slate, marble and basalt have been used for centuries and their durability is obvious. Partly due to its longevity and little need for replacing or repairs, stone has a lower carbon footprint than the other commonly used construction materials mentioned here. It is also low carbon emission at the point of quarrying, and choosing stone from local quarries further reduces impact. The downside to stone is that it's not a renewable resource.</li><li>Brick – used for structural and decorative applications. While clay bricks come from a natural source, have a long life span, require little maintenance and can be easily reused or repurposed, the greatest environmental concern is in the manufacturing process. Involving large kilns to fire clay bricks, the carbon emissions associated with production are high. Bricks, however, are good insulators making them energy efficient.</li></ol>More modern construction materials include: glass, plastic foam, aluminium. Main uses of glass are structurally, and for windows and doors. Two sustainability positives to using glass in construction are; the use of glass allowing in natural light contributes to energy-saving within the property, and secondly glass is recyclable. However, the production of glass has a negative environmental impact due to the use of fossil fuels, water pollution and CO2 emissions.Plastic foam, or polyurethane foam, is used mostly for thermal and acoustic insulation and sealing gaps. The manufacturing of foam is relatively low impact on the environment, no combustible gases are produced and chemicals are stored safely. However, plastic foam does not degrade easily and is not commonly recycled, making a disposal issue.Aluminium is considered a sustainable resources thanks to its natural abundance, energy-efficiency and high recyclability. It can be used structurally and non-structurally, for example in external façades, balustrades, roofs etc.<h2> Alternative building materials</h2>With approximately 50% of the planet's extracted raw materials being used for construction purposes and approximately 33% of the planet's waste coming from the same place, it is imperative that the industry take on more responsibility by responsibly sourcing, selecting and disposing of building materials. &nbsp;It's a common myth that by choosing an alternative building material it means compromising on integrity or durability. Allow us to highlight some of the alternatives used currently, and some rising in popularity, and their comparative benefits.<h3> Recycled building materials</h3><ul><li>Steel is the most recycled material in the world. The UK recycles 80% of its scrap steel. When it's recycled it loses almost no intrinsic value. It can also be reused effectively, particularly if the original designers have considered future-proofing. It can be used in both the finished product and at building level. Some uses of re-used steel are for structural frames and piles. When using recycled steel as an alternative to virgin steel, the carbon footprint of a project is five times lower.</li><li>Recycled or reclaimed wood has a lower environmental impact than harvesting new timber. It can be used at a construction level, i.e. supporting beams, and in finishes such as flooring, door and window frames.</li><li>Producing 95% lower greenhouse gas emissions in the manufacturing of recycled plastic materials compared to concrete blocks, makes the reuse of plastic a more palatable option.</li><li>Rubber can be recycled and used as a component for making a concrete that is lower in toxicity than traditional concrete mixes. It can be used as a type of soft flooring in some specific settings such as hospitals and play areas.</li></ul><h3> Natural building materials</h3><ul><li>100% natural and biodegradable, straw and sheep's wool are becoming more popular choices for insulation material. What's more, their high efficiency means lower energy bills.</li><li>A highly renewable, resilient, moisture-resistant material, cork can be used to make panelling for ceilings, walls and floors. As it is sound-absorbing it is an ideal material choice for soundproofing.</li><li>Clay brick, as an alternative to concrete brick, is more energy efficient. It will keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. Clay bricks are both lighter in weight and stronger. They have a 650-year life span, and at their end-of-life they can be reused or returned to the earth easily.</li><li>Hempcrete is made from hemp fibres bound with lime. Hemp itself is a fast-growing renewable resource that is growing in popularity for myriad uses. The lime component makes the Hempcrete material antibacterial and mould resistant, a great combination for regulating humidity and reducing damp.</li></ul><h3> Innovative materials</h3><ul><li>AshCrete, a strong and durable substitute for concrete. Making use of another waste product, Fly Ash, means it's an environmentally friendly material on two counts; preventing waste and eliminating the CO2 emissions that would be caused during the production of traditional concrete.</li><li>Mycelium, which comes from fungus, is a 100% natural, renewable and biodegradable building material. It can be used as a high-performance insulator, both thermal and acoustic, and as a non load-bearing brick.</li><li>Potato chipboard is created from waste potato scraps. It can be used as an eco-friendly MDF alternative and at its end-of-life be composted to grow more potatoes.</li></ul><h3> Locally sourced building materials</h3>The environmental impact of construction logistics is significant. In order to minimise shipping and the resulting carbon footprint, sourcing building materials locally could be a solution.The benefits are; preventing unnecessary landfill, supporting the local trade and community, reducing costs of the project, decreasing the carbon emissions associated with shipping.Some examples of sourcing locally are:<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>salvaging or reclaiming materials from local sites, such as bricks, timber or tiles</li><li>using homegrown timber or locally quarried stone</li><li>sourcing finishes and furniture from UK-based designers</li></ul><h2> Construction methods and energy use</h2>The first step towards making construction methods more environmentally friendly is considering &nbsp;a project's overall energy consumption and its emissions. By zeroing in on materials, we can make greener choices to better control one aspect of the project's carbon footprint. A sustainable material is one that has little or no negative environmental impact during the stages of its lifespan: sourcing, i.e. mining or extraction; production or processing; distribution; construction, including its durability and energy-efficiency in situ; and finally, disposal.For example, take into consideration the sustainability of sheep wool as insulation versus fibreglass.<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Sourcing: Sheep wool is an all natural and renewable resource.&nbsp;</li><li>Processing: It requires 15% less energy than fibreglass to produce.&nbsp;</li><li>Distribution: Depending on availability, it might be possible to source sheep wool locally, thus minimising emissions associated with transportation.</li><li>Durability: Sheep wool insulation can last a lifetime, whereas fibreglass needs to be replaced every 15-20 years.</li><li>Energy efficiency: The density of sheep wool makes it a more efficient insulator, which has a positive impact on home energy bills.</li><li>Disposal: Sheep wool is both biodegradable and recyclable, whereas fibreglass is neither.</li></ul>When comparing the two materials, sheep wool is the more sustainable insulation choice.<h2> Our commitment to sustainability in construction</h2>At houseUP, we have more than 10 years' experience in the building and renovations industry so we are acutely aware of the enormity of its impact on the planet. For this reason, we are diligent in following industry innovators and the developments and recommendations made that support sustainability in construction. Through this guidance and expertise we will continue to make our own changes that support environmental safeguarding. What's more, as drivers for change, we actively raise awareness among our clients so that they can make more informed decisions and hopefully, greener choices.A list of our ongoing initiatives to promote and support sustainability as a responsible construction company can be found <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.houseup.co.uk/sustainability-in-construction">here</a> in the section titled 'Our initiatives'.

Are you impacted by the Building Safety Act 2022 and want to share your thoughts and experience? Are you a home owner in a High Risk Building? Contact us to talk about the impact of the new legislation on your work and your life

The building safety act and high risk buildings. An overview and practical aspects for designers and contractors | houseUP

The Building Safety Act 2022 and High Risk Buildings

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A build-over agreement is a legal contract between a property owner and water company. Find out if you need a build-over agreement using this expert guide.

What is a Build-Over Agreement? | 2023 Guide | houseUP

What is a Build-Over Agreement?

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<h1 class="p1">What is a Build-Over Agreement?</h1>&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">What is a build-over agreement?</h2>When considering a rear extension, side extension, basement or garage conversion for your property it might be necessary to obtain a build-over agreement (BOA) if your design plans involve building over, or in close proximity to, any part of a public sewerage network.&nbsp;Build-over agreements were introduced in 2011 when the previously private areas of the sewerage network were awarded to water and wastewater companies. This was in the interest of public health and safety and the responsibility for the integrity of the public sewerage system now falls to the local water provider.&nbsp;There are a few very good reasons for obtaining a BOA. First, at the time it will ensure the building work is carried out safely and minimizes the risk of damage to either the water authority’s assets or those of the homeowner. Additionally, it is worth noting that any damage caused to the water provider’s pipework during a build-over without permission would be at the expense of the homeowner. Finally, evidence of a build-over agreement for recent renovations might be requested by potential buyers in the future.Depending on the class of the build-over, which relates to the diameter of the drainpipes in question, the cost can range between £70 (Class 1) to £410 (Class 2) to £495 (Class 3).&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">How to get a build-over agreement</h2>A build-over agreement is the permission given by the local water and wastewater provider to build over a public drain or sewer. The most common provider in London is Thames Water and the process is straightforward.First, there are three classes of BOA. Before beginning the application you must determine which class your building work will come under.&nbsp;Class 1 covers sewer pipes with an internal diameter of 150mm or less.Class 2 covers sewer pipes with an internal diameter of 151mm to 375mm.Class 3 covers sewer pipes with an internal diameter over 375mm.&nbsp;Once this information is obtained an application can be made via the water provider’s website. They require the following documents:<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">A site map indicating boundary lines.</li><li class="li2">Floor plans indicating existing and proposed drainage, i.e. sewer pipes, manholes, sewer flow direction, any private connections onto the sewer.</li><li class="li2">Sectional drawings, plans that show foundation design in relation to the relevant pipework.</li><li class="li2">Plans for piling foundations and method statement (if applicable).</li><li class="li2">Plans for raft foundations and their structural calculations (if applicable).</li></ul>Except for the first document that will be in your possession (the property deeds), the others will be provided by the structural engineer assigned to your renovation project.Payment is made online at the point of application. The application is processed within 21 days, and for Class 1 applications, it is now complete.For Class 2 applications, a pre-construction survey is the next step. The water provider will be in contact within another ten days to assess the condition of the sewer before construction can start. This assessment is carried out via a CCTV survey.For Class 3 applications, an engineer will assess the sewer for any repair work before construction can begin.In both cases, if there are no issues reported from the surveys, construction can begin.Following the building work, surveys are required once more, CCTV for Class 2 and an engineer inspection for Class 3, to ensure no damage has occurred during the project. These checks are usually completed within ten days of notification.&nbsp;Once the building work has been approved, the build-over agreement is issued. This takes 21 days for Class 1 and 2, and up to 6 months for more complex Class 3.&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">Building over a drain or public sewer</h2>Before embarking on a ground floor extension project that requires building over, for example; a side extension, rear extension, basement conversion or garage conversion, there are a number of crucial factors to consider. These factors can have an impact on the approach to the project, the authority requirements, or the design.First, what type of drain are you building over? If you are unsure, drainage records can be obtained from the water authority or local council, although these can be inaccurate if your property pre-dates 2011. Or a drainage expert can map the drains using a CCTV survey.A private drain is a pipe serving your own property and located within the boundary of it. A build-over agreement is not necessary for private drains. Pipework will be inspected for safety and building work approved as part of the planning permission for your extension.&nbsp;A public drain is maintained by the water authority and is any pipework that serves another property. Public drains may run within your boundary but are still classed as public. If your building work involves building within 1m of a public drain, you will need to obtain a build-over agreement from the local water authority.&nbsp;A lateral drain is a pipe serving your property but is located outside the boundary of it. While it is unlikely you will plan to build over a lateral drain, your plans might involve building within 1m of it, thus requiring a BOA. A public sewer is also maintained by the water authority and requires permission for building work within 3m.For public drains and sewers, prior to permission, the water authority will need to inspect the existing pipework for its condition and integrity, assess the risk of damage to it or potential failure, and ensure it is still accessible for future maintenance.&nbsp; As well as protecting their own assets, this inspection is of benefit to the homeowner as any failure in the drain could result in damage to, or even collapse of the new structure.&nbsp;Besides the safety and integrity of the public drainage system, access to it must be considered. The Government Building Regulations document H4, p.49, section 1.3 states “buildings or extensions should not be constructed over a manhole, inspection chamber or other access fitting on any sewer (serving more than one property).”Manholes cannot be built over, but depending on area available, it might be possible to apply for a minor diversion and to relocate the manhole itself. If this action is approved by the water authority the responsibility will fall to the homeowner, however, moving a manhole and diverting a drain can have a significant impact on the project budget.&nbsp;(Drainage and Waste Disposal H4, HM Government, 2015) also restricts building work over specific types of soil, i.e. fine sands, silts and peat. These materials are not commonly found surrounding sewerage networks in Greater London.Although restrictions can pose a challenge, at houseUP we like to explore all avenues in an effort to find solutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">Typical house drainage layouts</h2>&nbsp;<h3 class="p3">What if your build-over agreement is refused?</h3>Most build-over agreements in Greater London are straightforward, and at houseUP we strive for the administration process to be as stress-free for you as possible. Although most well-planned build-over agreement applications are granted, there are three potential obstacles that could impede the agreement:&nbsp;<ol class="ol1"><li class="li2">Manholes. These cannot be built over, but in some instances, they can be relocated.</li><li class="li2">Strategic sewers, sewers that carry waste from a large number of properties. It is unlikely, however, that there is one located under the area you wish to extend or renovate.</li><li class="li2">A pressurised sewer. These are more common in remote housing areas, rather than London.</li></ol>These obstacles can usually be identified prior to submitting an agreement request and can be factored into the design plans, thus minimising the risk of refusal. However, should the build over agreement be refused, depending on feasibility and budget, building plans can be revised and an application resubmitted.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3 class="p3">Retrospective build-over agreements</h3>We strongly suggest obtaining a build-over agreement before commencing any building work of your own. In line with our commitment to best practice, houseUP would not take on any project without the requisite permissions in place.&nbsp;With a BOA in place, you can be sure that the construction can be carried out safely and that you are in cooperation with your water company. A lack of compliance could lead to unnecessary costs, the demolition of any unauthorised structures, or even legal action.&nbsp;As build-over agreements only became a requirement as recently as 2011, extensions built prior to this may not comply with the current build-over regulations. A retrospective BOA will assess the structure and seek to legalise the construction by ensuring compliance with the regulations in place.&nbsp;If you are planning on selling a property with an extension built prior to 2011, or altering an existing extension built prior to 2011, a retrospective build-over agreement will be necessary.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">Build-over agreements: Frequently asked questions</h2><ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">Who issues a build-over agreement?</li></ul>The local water and wastewater services provider. For most properties in Greater London, this is Thames Water.&nbsp;<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">What happens if you don’t get a build-over agreement?</li></ul>Without a BOA, the water authority has the right to take down any unauthorised building work that is an obstruction to their access. Furthermore, they will not take any financial responsibility for damage caused to their property or yours.<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">Do I need a build-over agreement for a conservatory?</li></ul>If your building plans require building over an existing drain or sewer, then yes.&nbsp;<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">When did build-over agreements become a requirement?</li></ul>In 2011, when water companies were awarded private areas of the sewerage network, BOAs became necessary. The aim was to better monitor and maintain sewer lines.&nbsp;<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">How close can I build to the main sewer line?&nbsp;</li></ul>Within 3 metres of a public sewer and within 1 metre of a public lateral drain.&nbsp;<ul class="ul1"><li class="li2">Is it illegal to build over a sewer?</li></ul>It is not illegal to build over a sewer. However, building over a sewer without the appropriate permissions can have costly repercussions.&nbsp;<h2 class="p3">houseUP, Design and Build services</h2>With our bespoke Design and Build package, you can expect our partner architects to have experience of house extensions in your area of London. This means specific knowledge of local layouts, relationships with local authorities, and extensive experience in permissions applications, including build-over agreement applications.If you are considering a house extension and think you might require a build-over agreement, we can answer your questions. At houseUP, we pride ourselves on our exceptional customer care and attention to detail, we are prepared to guide you through every step of your extension journey with us.

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Gen is managing director and chief of digital strategy in houseUP, leading the company's business strategy. She comes from the tech start-up industry as a product and marketing chief officer

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