Historic Compliance Review

The Harris Approach

Each instruction, client and development are different, but the core headline requirements behind our HCR services is constant. Did the development satisfy the standards of the day, and if not, why not and who or what is responsible? To enable us to best serve our clients and answer these questions the following processes are usually adapted to suit the specific nuances of each case.

Stage 1

Review development history.
Identify key parties / entities (now and at contract completion).
Assess the extent, limitations and relevance of any warranty or guarantee.
Review operation & maintenance manuals and development handover packs.
Seek evidence from the original design/construction team on materials and system certification(s) for the parts of the as-constructed building under review.
Determine original design intent/requirements and specification requirements.

Stage 2

Carry out detailed inspections (intrusive if necessary).
Site determination of design detail, material(s) composition & performance rating.
Identify any disconnect between design intent and functionality of the installation.
Review manufacturer requirements against site-specific applications.
Track down materials and systems suppliers and installers if required.
Seek evidence to support as-installed status, such as copies of orders & receipts.

Stage 3

Consider testing of particular element or system, for example laboratory testing for the determination of a combustibility rating.
Consider options for assessing compliance, such as BS8414 test evidence supporting a BR135 classification (if relevant). Other test data might be more suitable.
Consider difference behind tests and scrutinise industry and trade fact sheets such as BBA certificates.

Stage 4

Review and determine core statutory requirements at time of construction.
Understand requirements under previous iterations of the Building Regulations.
Determine the net effect of any deficiency / shortcoming.
Assess extent of any potential remediation action including understanding to what standard such remediation would be required to comply with previous statute and any relevant current statute.
Identify risks as they exist now and assess whether remediation of a non-compliance is warranted and that the net effect of such remediation has a tangible benefit.
Prepare a full and detailed Report outlining findings and recommendations.