Resources
March 2011 Professional Advisers
Welcome to March's email bulletin. This month our topic is Professional Advisers. If you have a subject that you would like us to cover in a future bulletin let us know by emailing the team at info@spabfim.org.uk.
Things to think about...
When we are trying to make best use of the modest resources available to care for our places of worship it can be tempting to wonder whether we can deal with that urgent repair project or tackle the redecorating without involving our professional adviser (usually an architect or a building surveyor).
This month we thought we might share a few of the reasons why your professional adviser should always be involved in the ongoing care of your building.
Knowledge: As a result of a long training process architects and building surveyors have acquired the necessary expertise to specify, coordinate and manage your repair project effectively. Some architects and building surveyors are also accredited in building conservation - you may need to employ an accredited professional adviser if you are hoping to secure some types of grant aid for your repair project.
Experience: Your professional adviser
will have accumulated a considerable wealth of experience as they deal
with a variety
of problems in a variety of buildings.
For example they may have experience of the latest thinking on the best way to protect lead roofs from theft or alternatively the most appropriate choice of materials to replace lead if necessary.
Creativity: Sometimes solving a tricky repair problem requires a creative approach to help find the right answer. Building professionals are trained problem solvers and they will use their imagination and skill to devise pragmatic solutions to a variety of challenges.
Cost effectiveness: Using your professional adviser may help save you time and money. A carefully specified repair is likely to last longer and may be easier to care for in the longer term, leading to lower maintenance costs. A skilled professional adviser may also be able help you to avoid future problems and give you advice on ways of keeping running costs down.
Prioritisation: The five-yearly fabric
inspections carried out by architects and building surveyors are a
first step
in prioritising the repair needs of your building.
Your professional adviser will understand the ‘big picture' as well as the detailed needs of the building fabric and will help you determine a sensible programme of repairs that takes into account your organisation's resources, potential sources of grant aid and other issues.
Consistency: Building up a long term relationship with your professional adviser enables that person to acquire a great deal of knowledge about the history, materials, construction and maintenance problems specific to your place of worship. When they are asked to tackle the next repair project they are able to draw upon this accumulated knowledge rather than starting from scratch every time. This ensures that there is a consistent approach to the materials, specifications and techniques used in the repairs as well as saving you time and money.
Communication: For all building projects
it is important that you are able to articulate your proposals
clearly.
Your professional adviser will help you to communicate effectively
with
denominational bodies, funding agencies, the local authority, and
contractors.
Good communications will also ensure that any problems are resolved quickly and straightforwardly.
Freedom from worry: Your professional adviser will make sure that your project runs smoothly. They can also offer advice on your responsibilities as a client with regard to health and safety as well as advising on the choice of suitable contractors and monitoring the building works through to completion.
Administration: Your professional adviser will guide you through the complex web of legislation, regulations and contractual obligations. In larger building projects the role of your professional adviser will also include coordinating the team of specialist consultants such as engineers, quantity surveyors, builders, subcontractors and conservators.
Energy efficiency: Your professional adviser may be able to offer advice on steps that you can take towards achieving an environmentally responsible (‘green') building. Well planned repairs and improvements will not only cost less to operate but may help to lessen the building's impact on the planet.
Further information
- Working with an architect or surveyor - advice from Churchcare
- A guidance note about appointing an architect or surveyor - advice from the Diocese of Exeter
Need more help?
If you have any questions about maintenance or repair issues contact our Technical Helpline for advice and guidance. This service is normally available on Fridays between 9.30am and 3.30pm on 0207 456 0916. Alternatively, you can email your questions to advice@spabfim.org.uk. Copies of the SPAB's range of Technical Pamphlets and Information Sheets are available to purchase from our online bookshop.
Sara Crofts
Faith in Maintenance Project Director
Stave off decay by daily care ~ William Morris 1877
