Grove House was built in 1933. Since that time, all the main facilities have been degenerating. Over the past six years, we have embarked on a series of projects to modernize the building. Ultimately, we intend to completely change the building – both internally and externally. However, before that, we need to update the services and general infrastructure.
We have installed two new lifts – one in November 2014 and one in June 2017. In, 2016 we refurbished the subterranean drains. Last year, we refurbished all the dormer windows on the top floor. We also completely refurbished the pump room that services our sewage system.
20/07/2016
Planned Infrastructure Projects
The main services in the building are gas, drains. electricity, water. We are now planning work on the last two. The pipes in the building that service the various flats are iron and are badly rusted internally. All these pipes need to be replaced. The main electrical cables in the building are VIR – vulcanized India rubber. These cables should have been replaced years ago.
The work will be planned and supervised by an M&E Consultant. This stands for Mechanical and Electrical Consultant – often called Services Consultant. Up till last year, we have been using Robert Slade as our M&E Consultant. At the end of last year, we commissioned a report from Robert to advise further infrastructure work. This report is attached to this page. Unfortunately, Robert is very busy on other projects and will no longer be available to work for us.
At the present time, we are interviewing M&E consultants who are being asked to quote for the design work on the planned infrastructure work. We hope to appoint a consultant over the next few weeks. Why do we need a consultant? They will do the following:
1. Survey the building.
2. Prepare a specification for the works.
3. Liaise with water and electricity authorities.
3. Prepare tender documents and assist with choice of builder.
4. Supervise the work
Renovation of Ground Floor Foyers
We do not intend to undertake major cosmetic renovation of the building until the work on our electrical and water supplies are complete. However, some work is planned for the two main ground floor foyers over the next few weeks – new tiles for the floors and painting the walls. The tile pattern we are currently considering is a 600 x 600 mm porcelain tile that has the appearance of marble. The work has been out for tender and a builder selected.
Section 20 Report
Below, you can find the section 20 report regarding the electrical and plumbing infrastructure work that is being proposed.
Section 20 Report for Grove House