Challenge
A fire within a top-floor apartment of a large detached residential property — subdivided into four units — caused extensive damage to the roof structure and spread into an adjacent apartment. Firefighting operations also resulted in significant water damage to the lower units.
Following an initial reinstatement undertaken by others, concerns were raised regarding delays, incomplete works, and the overall quality and compliance of construction. We were subsequently instructed by the loss adjuster to undertake an independent technical investigation.
Our inspections identified widespread defects and areas of non-compliance, including:
- Roof structure not constructed in accordance with available structural design information
- Inadequate or absent fire compartmentation between residential units
- Deficiencies in insulation and thermal performance
- Incorrect or inadequate tile fixing and roof detailing
- Concerns relating to electrical installation and wider building services
- Lack of appropriate inspection, coordination, and validation during construction
The property is located within a conservation area, adding further complexity to the reinstatement requirements.
Solution
We undertook a comprehensive programme of investigation and technical assessment, including:
- Detailed intrusive investigations and technical analysis of the roof covering and underlying structure, enabling identification of concealed defects and non-compliant construction
- Opening up works to verify structural arrangement and build-up
- Review of available design information and construction records
- Coordination with structural and fire engineering specialists
- Assessment of compliance with Building Regulations and current standards
Our findings confirmed that substantial elements of the previous works required remedial intervention and full redesign.
We developed a comprehensive remedial design and specification, including:
- Complete removal of the defective roof coverings and structure
- Full redesign and reconstruction of the roof structure, incorporating structural steel elements to achieve stability and compliance
- Stabilisation and integration of existing chimney structures within the new roof design
- Installation of compliant fire compartmentation between residential units
- Upgraded insulation and building fabric to meet current performance standards
- Coordination of compliant building services installations
Due to the extent of the works, a temporary roof (“top hat”) system was installed to protect the building during reconstruction.
We subsequently managed:
- Procurement and tendering of the works
- Contractor appointment
- Contract administration and delivery through to completion stages
Working alongside structural and fire engineers, and coordinating with insurance and wider project stakeholders as required.
Outcome
The project is progressing through a structured reinstatement and remediation programme, addressing both the original fire damage and the issues identified during investigation.
Key outcomes include:
- Full reconstruction of the roof structure in accordance with current design and regulatory standards
- Integration of structural steel framing to provide long-term stability
- Stabilisation and safe incorporation of existing chimney elements
- Reinstatement of compliant fire separation between units
- Improvement in overall building performance, safety, and compliance
The project demonstrates our ability to investigate complex building issues, develop robust technical solutions, and deliver coordinated reinstatement works within a highly constrained and technically demanding environment.
Value
£1.4 Million
