Design Risk Assessment: What do we need to know?

architect drawing

One Guarantee's inspection process incorporates both a Design Risk Assessment as well as a number of targeted on-site technical audits. This ensures that the most comprehensive control measures are implemented throughout the build process. One Guarantee works with a select panel of approved inspectors and qualified chartered surveyors who are both RICS qualified and CIC approved.

Our inspection process has been designed to work alongside developers and builders, offering technical support throughout the development process. Our Design Risk Assessment, in particular, ensures the technical aspects of each build meets our standards and achieves sign-off.

The following is a summary of the technical information we require as part of an assessment:

  • Copies of Phase 1 (desktop and site walkover) and Phase 2 (intrusive) site investigation reports
  • Copies of site/block plans, ideally showing location and type of existing trees (although this is typically only determined upon first site inspection)
  • Copies of architectural design drawings, details and specifications
  • Copies of structural design drawings, details, specification and supporting calculations
  • Details, layouts and specification for all above and below ground drainage
  • Copies of mechanical and electrical details when applicable
  • Details and specifications of any chimneys and flues that may form part of the work
  • For conversions, we need copies of structural/condition survey reports (particularly with regard to any proposed retained elements), and both timber/damp survey reports along with lists of remedial works deemed necessary
  • In some cases (including contaminated sites and existing listed buildings or those in conservation areas), copies of planning approval notices (or planning references so we can review them online via planning portals)

Upon receipt of design information, a Design Risk Assessment typically focuses on the following:

  • Compliance with Building Regulations Part A: Structure
  • Compliance with Building Regulations Part C: Site Preparation and Resistance to Moisture
  • Compliance with Building Regulations Part H: Drainage
  • Compliance with Building Regulations Part J: Combustion Appliances
  • Compliance with Building Regulations Part M: Access and Use of Buildings (part only)
  • Compliance with other Health & Safety requirements included in the Building Regulations
  • Identification of specific risk / exclusion items – not exhaustive list

We may also look at:

  • Location/exposure, particularly in coastal areas. Some extreme inland exposure may also attract additional provisions for weather protection
  • Basements
  • Retaining walls
  • Non-traditional construction (e.g. MMC, timber frame) checking systems have appropriate third-party accreditation
  • Use of render for external wall finishes, particularly where fixed to insulation/boards
  • Flat roofs
  • Natural slate specified for roof coverings
  • Use of green oak
  • Use of septic tanks, sewage treatment plants, rainwater harvesting, soakaways and other disposal/infiltration methods that may be excluded
  • Renewable energy tech fixed to roofs such as solar thermal/PV panels

If you’d like to discuss Design Risk Assessments with us in more depth, don’t hesitate to get in touch. Simply call 01603 218288 or drop us a line by email.