RICS Modus - Global edition, February 2014

WELCOME TO THE LAB Extreme testing at BRE

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PEAK PERFORMANCES Tales of surveying on the edge p14ICE COLD IN ANTARCTICA Construction at the South Pole p30CHILL OUT How to cool down the 2022 Qatar World Cup p34

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Vehicle shown is an L200 Warrior with optional accessories. Super Select 4WD is only available on the Trojan, Warrior, Barbarian and Walkinshaw variants. M-ASTC is only available on the Warrior, Barbarian and Walkinshaw variants. 1. 5 year/125,000 mile warranty (whichever comes first) is applicable to new Mitsubishi L200 retail and small business sales and selected Contract Hire agreements. 5 year/125,000 mile warranty excludes NI & Channel Islands, Terms and Conditions apply. Please see www.mitsubishi-cars.co.uk for more details. 2. L200 Warrior rental shown is for a manual transmission. Metallic paint extra. The Contract Hire Finance Plan shown is applicable to VAT Registered Business users only and is subject to status through Mitsubishi Contract Motoring (part of the official Mitsubishi Motors distribution in the UK), Watermoor, Cirencester, Glos. GL7 1LF. The rental is based on a repayment pattern of 12 rentals in advance, followed by 35 monthly in arrears, subject to VAT and based on an annual mileage of 10,000 miles and is non-maintained. Excess mileage will be charged for and indemnities may be required. Rental valid between 1st January and 31st March 2014 and is subject to change without notice, other terms and mileages are available upon request, available at participating dealers in the UK (excludes Channel Islands & I.O.M). Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. 3. The 0% APR Representative Finance plan is through Finance Mitsubishi, 116 Cockfosters Road, Barnet, EN4 0DY and is subject to status to customers aged 18 and over. Finance Mitsubishi is part of Lloyds Bank Asset Finance. 0% APR Representative Finance rate is better than rates available from high street lenders and requires a 50% deposit, other offers are available – ask for details. Indemnities may be required. Offer is only applicable in the UK (excludes NI, Channel Islands & I.O.M), subject to availability, whilst stocks last and may be amended or withdrawn at any time. Offers available between 1st January and 31st March 2014. 4. List price shown excludes VAT, VED and First Registration Fee and is for an L200 Single Cab 2.5 DI-D 4Work. Metallic paint extra.

Mitsubishi L200 range from £14,499+VAT4

Put it through its pacesVisit mitsubishi-cars.co.uk to fi nd your nearest dealer MitsubishiUKMitsubishiUK MitsubishiTV

Unlike any other pick-up, our revolutionary Super Select 4WD means you can drive in 2WD or 4WD on any terrain, even tarmac. And coupled with our M-ASTC stability and traction control system, it ensures that whatever the conditions you stick to every surface. We call this Intelligent Motion.

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M34003 Q1 2014 L200 Modus 274x202.indd 1 07/01/2014 16:07MODUS_Feb14_P02_Mitsubishi.indd 2 13/01/2014 11:29

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THE SPICE OF LIFEThere’s no profession that’s quite as varied and wide-ranging as surveying: RICS

members can be found deep underground, working on massive tunnelling projects;

they can be found at high-speed race circuits, constructing facilities for thousands

of spectators; and they can even be found in shops, museums and homes, valuing

artworks and antiques worth millions of pounds. But what all these surveyors

have in common is the high standards to which they work, delivering reliable

and unbiased measurements that allow the industries around them to function

smoothly. So in this issue, we’re celebrating that diversity by focusing on some

of the most varied – you could even say extreme – stories of how surveyors are

making a difference across the world, and in all sorts of ways.

OLIVER PARSONS EDITOR

02.14 // MODUS 03

Regulars04_FEEDBACKYour views on Modus and the surveying profession

06_INTELLIGENCEGlobal news, plus opinions, reviews and reactions

39_LAW ADVICETips for employers on how to avoid costly discrimination claims during the recruitment process

41_BUSINESS ADVICEPractical guidance on how to make sure you get the most from your business’s website

Features14_EXTREME SURVEYORSMeet seven professionals working on some of the biggest, fastest, and most controversial projects in the world of surveying

22_THE HEAT IS ONWhat will it take to get the UK’s deep geothermal energy industry out of the starting blocks?

26_BREAKING POINTHow rigorous testing at the BRE Research Centre is improving the performance of materials

30_ON THE EDGEDiscover the innovative strategies employed in the construction of Antarctic research stations

34_MATCH MADE IN HELLTackling the controversial issue of sustainable air-conditioning at the 2022 Qatar World Cup

Information43_RICS NEWSNews, updates and a message from the RICS President

49_EVENTSTraining and conference dates

51_RECRUITMENTThe latest job opportunities

62_THE MEASUREComparing house price per m2 in the UK and overseas

Contents

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Views expressed in Modus are those of the named author and are not necessarily those of RICS or the publisher. The contents of this magazine are fully protected by copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without the prior permission of the publisher. All information correct at time of going to press. All rights reserved. The publisher cannot accept liability for errors or omissions. RICS does not accept responsibility for loss, injury or damage or costs that result from, or are connected in any way to, the use of products or services advertised. All editions of Modus are printed on paper sourced from sustainable, properly managed forests. This magazine can be recycled for use in newspapers and packaging. Please dispose of it at your local collection point. The polywrap is made from biodegradable material and can be recycled.

Due to the volume of correspondence we receive, we regret that we are unable to print all letters or respond to every one individually.

treatment of workers on many of the region’s iconic projects. As an increasing number of multinational organisations move into the region, RICS surveyors working within these organisations are bringing with them – and applying – global best practice principles, which is a very positive step forwards.

Given the skills shortage in Qatar, the workforce required to deliver the vast number of projects is being sought from many countries. And while the article mentioned a tax-free environment leading to increased earning capacity, it should be recognised that this applies to all workers of all nationalities, all of whom are earning considerably more than they would in their home countries. We would also like to highlight that one of the positive benefi ts of this multinational and multicultural workforce is that many of the government projects in Qatar are advocating and requesting well-trained, experienced staff at all levels – which provides an excellent opportunity for RICS and its members to transfer professional standards and skills across the market. Many of the more traditional companies, which historically may not have placed ethics, social responsibility and staff welfare at the top of their agendas, are now quickly embracing such necessities in order to compete with the more professional companies entering the state, and to comply with the rapidly evolving regulations being introduced by the Qatari government. Rob Jackson, Director of RICS Middle East

its collective social conscience, this article, with its ‘loadsamoney’ attitude, could have shown a little more balance, and maybe even encouraged chartered surveyors to do a little more to improve conditions on building sites in Qatar. Shame on you.Paul Stotesbury FRICS, The Netherlands

In response to these letters from Modus readers regarding our article ‘Look East’, in which we focused on the growing opportunities for surveyors in Qatar, we would like to clarify our position on some of the issues raised. The recent reports of poor safety standards and poor treatment of expatriate workers, including those from the subcontinent, are indeed extremely concerning and RICS does not in any way advocate such practices in any part of the world. Furthermore, we would like to explain that RICS members in the Middle East region and in Qatar are having a very positive impact on the conditions and

THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOMI write regarding the article on Qatar in the December/January issue (page 14). Having read with interest about the attractions of the tax-free income, expat life and the proliferation of opportunities following the award of the 2022 World Cup, I was fl abbergasted to see the article remained totally silent on the shocking and headline-grabbing conditions under which labourers toil, including the deaths of hundreds of Nepalese labourers.

As well as promoting the opportunities available in this growing market, should RICS not also be campaigning and encouraging its members to promote better standards for construction workers, while also off ering further guidance on how to ensure cultural sensitivity when following the RICS code of ethics abroad where potential confl icts could occur? This silence on these matters is profoundly alarming.Joseph Trigger, Bath

What a tasteless article on the opportunities for chartered surveyors in Qatar. Given the well-documented conditions for, as Modus puts it, ‘inexpensive labour from the Indian subcontinent’, I would have expected at least a reference to the parlous situation of construction workers in this exploitative state. Instead, Modus chooses to focus on the pecuniary advantages for its readers in a puff -piece that even Sepp Blatter would be proud of. While our profession is not noted for

Feedback //

The MODUS team //FOR SUNDAYEditor Oliver Parsons // Art Director Scott Bentley //

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JOIN THE DEBATE

:REACTIONS AND RESPONSES FROM PREVIOUS ISSUESDo you have an editorial comment about this issue of Modus? Please email [email protected].

@AdventMediator @modusmag @RICSnews UK Govt Construction 2025 strategy calls for 33% reduction in construction & whole life cost of built assets. Big ask!

@j_bmilburn Thank you for including my ‘one thing I know’ in the latest Modus, I feel grateful and proud at the same time! #RICS #proud

@amanda_clack Great that @modusmag last edition of 2013 looks to 2025 for @RICSnews - now that’s what I call looking ahead at year end!

@clairelahughes Opened my copy of @modusmag & was over the moon to see an article on the Sagrada Familia. Beautiful building in an amazing city! #myfave

@nkgraham A very insightful piece on cloud and mobile computing for building surveyors in RICS Modus magazine

@RICSnews // @modusmag

positive impact on the conditions and

news // @modusmag

The trusted partner of The homebuilding indusTry

“�I�always��have�my�eye��on�the�ball.”

Alan NHBC�Building�Control�Surveyor��and�football�coach

To�find�out�more�about�the�services��we�offer,�visit�www.nhbc.co.uk�or�call�

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It’s reassuring that people like Alan are

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H4 - Modus - January 2014 - PP - Alan - RHP_FINAL.indd 1 1/6/14 2:37 PMMODUS_Feb14_P03-05_Contents and feedback.indd 4 14/01/2014 09:59

The trusted partner of The homebuilding indusTry

“�I�always��have�my�eye��on�the�ball.”

Alan NHBC�Building�Control�Surveyor��and�football�coach

To�find�out�more�about�the�services��we�offer,�visit�www.nhbc.co.uk�or�call�

0844 633 1000

It’s reassuring that people like Alan are

there at kick-off, working with your design

and technical teams and supporting you

in developing cost effective solutions to

comply with the Building Regulations.

As a football coach Alan knows the

value of teamwork to overcome the

challenges you face.

H4 01/14

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Intelligence :news :reviews :opinions :reactions

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Unfortunately, the days of leaving your doors unlocked while your kids play in the street are all but gone. And in the wake of increased terror alerts and extreme weather-related catastrophes, fortified panic rooms are becoming ever-more popular – despite the hefty price tag. But what about a fortified panic house? Robert Konieczny, of architect firm KWK Promes, has designed the ultimate modern fortress: a stylish, light- filled palace that, at just the touch of a button, seals up into a solid concrete bunker. Movable walls on either side of the house slide forward to link up with the outer fence, sealing up the garden to prevent children from escaping and forming a temporary ‘safe zone’ where the identity of visitors can be verified. All of the 2.8m by 3.5m windows are covered with giant shutters, while an aeroplane-hanger-style roll- down gate protects the back of the house and also functions as a huge movie projector screen. What’s more, although built with security in mind, sustainability is a welcome consequence. During the day, when it’s open, the building can absorb a huge amount of light and heat energy, which is then retained within the 45cm-thick walls when the house closes up for the night.

:Safe houSeWARsAW, PolAnD

MODUS_Feb14_P06-07_News opener_v2.indd 7 16/01/2014 14:41

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Firms that pay less than the national minimum wage risk damaging their business as a result of low staff productivity, high employee turnover and also loss of reputation, warns a survey by the UK’s Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. The reminder to pay the legal minimum wage comes at

a time when many fi rms will see their businesses expand, with the Construction Products Association forecasting 19% growth in the industry through to 2017. The survey found that eight out of 10 people wouldn’t use the services of a business if they found it paid less than the national minimum wage.

Furthermore, underpaying staff was also found to breed low productivity and resentment – eight out of 10 workers would ‘not work as hard’ if they knew they were underpaid, while 85% said they would seek other work. ‘Employers who fail to pay workers the right amount will face a fi nancial penalty, be

publicly named and shamed and may even be prosecuted,’ warned employment relations minister Jo Swinson. ‘Businesses can’t ignore this issue and stick their head in the sand.’ The national minimum wage rates changed on 1 October 2013. Find out more at gov.uk/national-minimum-wage-rates.

Construction MINIMUM PAY WARNING TO EMPLOYERS

Insight

MEXICO: NEW OPPORTUNITIES ARE EMERGING

While it’s been the BRICS nations that have dominated economic reports recently, in the background, Mexico’s economy has learned

lessons from the financial crisis and matured – even outpacing Brazil’s growth in 2011 and 2012. Despite a slowdown this year, the outlook remains positive for 2014, with 3-4% growth forecasted, while in the longer term Goldman Sachs predicts the Mexican economy could become the seventh largest in the world by 2020.

This translates into exciting prospects for UK expertise. Recent political reforms in telecommunications, media, education and banking, together with the introduction of Mexico’s Public-Private Partnership Law in 2012, have all contributed to increased transparency and productivity. And the subsequent growth commonly transforms into attractive property and construction opportunities. Furthermore, the recent six-year National Infrastructure Plan will see an impressive £65bn of public and private funding invested in around 500 road, rail, port and airport development projects nationwide. And with around fi ve million social homes also planned, the wide-ranging opportunities for UK property and construction professionals are only set to increase.

In the private sector, both the development and real estate markets are booming – undoubtedly assisted by China’s waning competitive edge. In 2011, real estate investment trusts were launched in Mexico, which are similar to the established US REITs and known locally by their Spanish acronym FIBRAs. These have proved both popular and successful, and the seven trusts currently

operating will all require the skills of real estate and construction professionals, while planned expansion of FIBRAs illustrates Mexico’s steady economic growth and increasing investor confi dence.

What’s more, Mexico’s infrastructure and development opportunities are finally attracting international interest. Having signed 12 free-trade agreements, as well as Economic Partnership Agreements, Mexico promotes and encourages foreign investment and is now one of the world’s most open markets for business. Unfortunately, however, often over-embellished media coverage of crime and unrest frequently cools interest in what is actually a fascinatingly diverse, geographically attractive and certainly ambitious country. Although Mexico still has a long way to go socially, with nearly 50% of the population living in poverty, and an informal economy contributing to low tax revenues, a metamorphosis is undoubtedly taking shape and longer-term prospects should be eagerly anticipated.

JOEL TATTON-BENNETT is a senior architect at McBains Cooper Mexico. mcbainscooper.com

Joel Tatton-Bennett MRICS McBains Cooper Mexico

CONSTRUCTION BOOMThe 70-unit Monterrey estate, by architects Elemental, is considered a new model for social housing in Mexico

Intelligence //

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Innovative ideas

STAND OUT FROM THE CROWD In the heart of Hong Kong’s fi nancial district, the Standard Chartered bank has undergone an inspired revitalisation project, led by ISG Asia’s project director Hung Lap Tso MRICS. By day, the offi ce’s aluminium façade displays the bank’s trustmark and an LED information screen, but at night, the façade comes alive with blue and green LED lights. What’s more, the façade is powered sustainably by 20 solar panels.

What other techniques could raise the profi le of commercial clients? Email [email protected].

InfrastructureNEW CONTAINER PORT FOR LONDONThe huge, £1.5bn London Gateway facility, which will handle around 3.5m containers a year, has opened in Thurrock, Essex. Dubai-based owners DP World appointed Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) as sole property agents on the project in 2012. ‘The new port will reduce transport costs, time to market and carbon emissions, and provide new opportunities for shipping lines to service the UK market,’ said Richard Evans MRICS, joint head of logistics at JLL. ‘With 95% of UK international trade being exported by sea, the impact on the economy will be signifi cant.’

:ONE BIG QUESTION SHOULD THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT BE INCLUDED IN THE NATIONAL CURRICULUM?

Take part in discussions by joining the RICS group at linkedin.com.

Slovakia Given literacy and numeracy levels of some school-leavers, perhaps the focus should be on these. But using construction as an example of how to utilise numeracy (especially geometry) might help students realise how these skills could lead to well-paid employment.

Simon Sutcliff e MRICS, Slovenske Elektrarne

Glasgow I think it’s a great idea. To create the engineers/surveyors/architects of tomorrow, why not start young, rather than leave it as a stab-in-the-dark choice for university? It could create a layering of education and experience that would be useful for companies.

Scotland No – a defi nite no. It would drive all interest and creative thought out of the subject. I was ‘made to’ study Robert Burns at school, and it took me almost two decades to recover and rediscover one of the greatest radical and humanist poets of all time.

Edward Harkins, knowledge and research consultant

Gillian Brown, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde

2030: THE GROWTH OF THE MIDDLE CLASS

02.14 // MODUS 09

PropertyPENSIONERS BUY OUT THEIR RETIREMENT HOMEA group of elderly residents in the Cotswolds have bought their own retirement village, after its owners went into administration. In a deal thought to be the fi rst of its kind in the UK, around 55 residents at the Crystal Fountain Village each paid more than £30,000 to raise the £2m needed to buy the freehold. Renamed Woodchester Valley, the village is being run by a newly created fi rm on a not-for-profi t basis, which should give the residents greater control and security. ‘It was a challenge to obtain ownership and control of the site, while ensuring that the administrators’ interest in their retained units wasn’t prejudiced,’ says Nigel Morton, partner at Charles Russell LLP, who advised the residents on their acquisition.

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App of the month

FORMWORKSIt is: An iPad app by Digital Field Solutions that replaces paper forms.Who’s it aimed at?: Especially handy for property surveyors and facilities managers. You can create a custom-made form to complete during a meeting or inspection, attach pictures and then capture a signature authorisation on the spot, before sending the data directly to the offi ce. This is more effi cient, and reduces the potential for data errors.

Search ‘Formworks’ at the app store (free).

With the amount of building work on the go declining over the past six years, it has been a

pretty grim time for many RICS members working in the construction sector. But now, however, there are some fairly convincing signs that the backdrop is improving, and this is likely to be refl ected this year in both output and employment opportunities.

I think we can all agree that offi cial fi gures relating to the construction sector need to be treated with a degree of caution. Apart from the fact they are subject to periodic historic revisions, there is the ongoing and more challenging issue of how they are calculated in the fi rst place. That said, fi gures have now risen for two consecutive quarters (and in three out of the last four).

More convincing for me is the feedback received from our members via the RICS Construction Market Survey. Because this market intelligence is from quantity surveyors, I genuinely believe that this is as good a lead indicator of future sector activity as there is. Interestingly, members indicated that their workloads were beginning to edge upwards at the back end of 2012. And this picture has subsequently gathered some momentum.

Predictably enough, a good part of the improvement in sentiment appears to be related to the housing market. Here, I have to hold up my hand and admit that I wasn’t the greatest fan of the Help to Buy initiative when it was introduced. However, in conjunction with the Funding for Lending scheme, and a general upturn in confi dence, it does appear to be delivering a signifi cant increase in the number of new residential starts. We can, of course, argue about whether it is suffi cient, given the scale of

the housing crisis, and whether or not all tenures are being adequately provided for. But it would be churlish not to recognise the turnaround underway in this area.

Meanwhile, we are also getting some more encouraging responses from RICS members regarding levels of activity in the private commercial and industrial areas. This almost certainly refl ects both the improved mood of the economy, with businesses once again looking to either expand or fi nd better quality space, and the slightly less restrictive credit environment, which is allowing developers some access to fi nance after a period during which the spigots remained fi rmly closed.

Despite all of this, there are still some challenges for the sector to overcome. First, quantity surveyors are telling us that competitive pressures remain fairly intense. Second, even if fi nance is a little more freely available than previously, it still remains the key obstacle to increasing workloads. Third, a deep recession tends to be associated with skill depletion, and we are already receiving warnings of skill shortages even though construction output is only just beginning to head upwards. And fi nally, there remains some understandable caution as to how the broader economy will respond to the gradual unwinding of the current emergency stance of monetary policy.

Simon Rubinsohn RICS Chief Economist

Intelligence //

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Column

FINALLY, THINGS ARE LOOKING UP

ResidentialLEVEL OF HOUSEBUILDING IN LONDON NEEDS TO DOUBLETo avoid a housing crisis, London needs to be building 50,000 units per year, warns Savills. With the population set to rise by a million by 2021, the fi rm found that most of the demand (57%) will be for homes at the lower end of the market, while only 6% of demand will be for prime properties. Furthermore, land availability should not be a constraint to building. ‘Research by Molior has identifi ed enough sites on which to build 850,000 homes,’ says Susan Emmett, residential research director at Savills. ‘There’s also surplus public land, industrial land and estate regeneration. London needs a common vision, greater planning fl exibility and a strong mayor to pull together big schemes.’ Around 400 homes will be

built on the site of an old light factory in South London


01.11 // MODUS 09

The leading book on the subject of occupational health and safety, revised in line with recent UK legislation and practice.ISBN: 978-0415656962RRP £120

A fast-paced insight into the inner workings of the UK commercial property, residential development and rental markets between 1997 and 2012.ISBN: 978-1783061266RRP £14.99

An overview of the wind tunnel testing process to allow design professionals to ask the right questions of their consultants.ISBN: 978-0415714594RRP £21.99

This second edition contains commentary on the social, environmental and technical infl uences on properties, organised into 13 age bands.ISBN: 978-0080971322RRP £35.99

We like

STARPATHWhat’s that? It might be the future of street lighting: instead of traditional lamps, our streets and pathways could be lit with luminous surfaces that use no electricity at all. How? Pro-Teq Surfacing (UK) has developed an aggregate material that absorbs and stores energy from the sun during the day, and then releases it at night with glow-in-the-dark particles. Sprayed on pathways, it could provide safer journeys for pedestrians and cyclists, and because it can be applied to existing surfaces, it could help councils reduce energy bills.Where can I see it in use? The product was recently sprayed on to a pathway that runs through an open space in Cambridge. It took only half an hour to apply, and the surface was ready to use after just four hours. Watch it in action at pro-teqsurfacing.com.

02.14 // MODUS 11

RetailGERMANY ON TOPIn Europe, Germany is the lead destination for shopping centre investment, followed by the UK, France, Norway and Sweden, according to a report by Savills. The research, which analysed 16 markets, found that strong consumer spending, economic fundamentals and low levels of unemployment have all helped these countries stay on top. ‘Since the start of the economic crisis, there’s been a clear fl ight to core dominant retail markets,’ said Nick Hart from Savills. This trend is predicted to continue, with only the more risk-embracing investor seeking out opportunities in non-core markets.

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ResidentialSIX-YEAR HIGH FOR MORTGAGE LENDING In October 2013, e.surv chartered surveyors recorded 68,996 house purchase loans, the highest level for nearly six years and a new post-fi nancial crisis record, while approvals were 32% higher year-on-year. The fi rm noted that sustained recovery in lending was driven by more loans being approved to buyers with smaller deposits. In October, 9,176 loans were to borrowers with a deposit of 15% or less of the total value of the property – an 80% increase year-on-year. However, despite this, the number of aff ordable properties is decreasing as house prices are being pushed up by a supply shortage in some areas.

RegenerationFROM SAND QUARRY TO AWARD-WINNING GARDENA botanical garden set in a former sand quarry has been awarded 2013’s ‘best landscape project’ at the World Architecture Festival. Laid out as a journey through Australian fauna, from the desert to the coast, the 25-hectare garden near Melbourne showcases more than 170,000 plants. Rider Levett Bucknall provided cost-consultancy services on the A$11m (£6m) project, which was designed by landscape studio Taylor Cullity Lethlean and plant expert Paul Thompson.

MyZeil shopping mall in Frankfurt


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Carbon cutsMott MacDonald has become one of the fi rst companies to only use subcontractors that meet its new carbon reduction standards. Following a UK government review, the company will also further the use of ‘lean’ solutions, such as BIM and off -site construction, in order to help reduce the carbon footprint of its infrastructure projects.

Qatar concernThe construction sector in Qatar is ‘rife with abuse’ of workers, warns Amnesty International, raising fears that workers could be exploited during the building of venues and infrastructure for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The report, entitled The dark side of migration, documents dangerous working conditions and non-payment of wages. Visit bit.ly/SpotlightQatar.

Pod alongMilton Keynes is to become the fi rst town in the UK to have a network of driverless ‘pod’ cars. From 2015, 100 ULTra pods will be introduced over two years to shuttle people between the railway station and town centre at a top speed of 12mph. Watch a video at bit.ly/ULTra_pods.

Covert costsNew advice has been released to help fi nance executives become more aware of the hidden costs of acquiring and managing corporate property in the UK. The advice covers key areas, such as determining the true cost of property and the eff ects of changes in the workplace. Download the advice at portalgroup.uk.com/white-papers.

Opinion

HIGH STREETS: DIGITAL IS A THREAT, BUT ALSO A BIG OPPORTUNITYRobert Chapman MRICS Robert Chapman & Company

There has been much debate about the state of retail: The Portas Review, The Grimsey Review, Beyond Retail 2013

(which suggests towns should be described as infrastructure) et al. But now we’ve done enough talking, and it’s time to take action. Cushman & Wakefi eld’s Global perspective on retail report, published in July 2013, states that the UK is currently the world’s most developed online retail market. Research shows that 72% of consumers now own a smartphone, and 40% of UK shoppers used a click-and-collect service over Christmas 2012.

I suggest, therefore, that ‘digital’ should be seen as an opportunity, not a threat. Retailers need to create a symbiotic relationship between their online and in-store offerings, while customers should do all they can to support their local economies. Furthermore, we must stop putting the retail cart before the employment horse: in recent decades, the regeneration debate has focused on retail, ignoring the primary function of urban centres as workplaces. If they’re to stay alive, urban centres need to be managed proactively, either

in the guise of neighbourhood plans or Business Improvement Districts. This requires coherent management plans, sound governance, positive partnerships and ‘ownership’ in the widest sense. But retailers need to step up to the plate, too, by embracing the digital age and participating in proactive management, while landlords need to be more engaged – by investing in wifi , for example – because for high streets to be vibrant, they need to be an integral part of social exchange.

I agree with the fi ndings in the Centre for Cities report Beyond the high street, which states that the fortunes of the high street are dependent on those of the wider city or town centre. As a result, it’s important to focus on the role of the town centre economy as a whole, rather than on retail in isolation. Because, with proper consideration, high streets can be taken beyond peak retail to transform city and town centres into social spaces that embrace the digital era.

ROBERT CHAPMAN is director of consultancy Robert Chapman & Company. rchapmanandco.com

LATEST NEWS

One thing I know...

SCAN FOR SUCCESSAllan Hunt MRICS, BIM lead director, Aedas Building Consultancy ‘Don’t forget how important laser scanning can be to a project. More than just another type of survey, it’s an accurate snapshot in time, supplying a dependable base upon which all aspects of the project will rest. And without planning and good foundations, projects run the risk of failure.’

What’s your business tip? Email [email protected].

12 r ics.org

HOUSE PRICE MOMENTUM: THE FIVE-YEAR FORECAST

Source: Savills’ Residential Property Focus Q4 2013

South East

England

East England

London Wales Scotland North East

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Tough jobs //

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MODUS_Feb14_P14-21_ExtremeSurveyors_v4.indd 14 16/01/2014 10:08

extreme measuresFROM EXPLORING LabyRINthINE CaVES tO VaLUING MULtIMILLION-POUND aRtWORKS, MEEt SEVEN SURVEyORS FOR WhOM NO JOb IS tOO bIG, DaNGEROUS OR EXaCtINGWords by Roxane McMeeken

02.14 // MODUS 15

Carbon capture //

How do you spend six years digging a ‘super sewer’ under a city without upsetting people? This is the challenge facing Phil Stride FRICS, head of the team at Thames Water constructing the £4.2bn Thames Tideway Tunnel,

a giant 25.1km shaft under the River Thames. Few would dispute the need for action: London’s sewers were designed more than 150 years ago for a population of 2.5m, but today around 8m live in the capital, with the population expected to grow further. The result is that, although they remain structurally sound, the sewers are no longer sufficient, and around 39m tonnes of raw sewage overflows into the Thames every year, harming wildlife and causing foul smells and health threats to anyone nearby. The plan is to upgrade the existing tunnels, add the 6.5km Lee Tunnel in East London and build a brand- new main tunnel following the route of the Thames. ‘But you can’t build something this big without causing disruption,’ says Stride. The proposed route, which is close to a number of residential sites, has prompted a surge of complaints from the communities affected. In response, Stride has reduced the main tunnel’s length by around 7km and cut the number of construction sites from 45 to just 24, while still meeting the same requirements. Thames Water will also erect warehouse-style structures over the works to prevent noise and dust escaping, while the site offices around the works will act as a further shield. To limit the impact on local traffic, Stride will make maximum use of the river to transport materials to the works where possible, and an impressive 90% of excavated material will be removed via barges. Of course, the project also has potential to literally cause a stink: ‘Fresh air is a relative term in this business,’ says Stride, ‘so we will be using blowers in the tunnels to move the air through a Granular Activated Carbon filter to treat it before it reaches the outside world.’ Lastly, in cases of extreme disruption, residents will be offered temporary alternative accommodation. Enabling works will start in 2015, and construction will last from 2016 to 2022. >>

Big

Tunnelling undeR The ThaMes


Tough jobs //

Precious

Valuing multimillion-pound artworks

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You might think the life of an art, antique and jewellery valuer is fairly sedate. But actually, the career of Robert Coram James MRICS, senior valuer at Coram James, is one of extremes. Take one recent week, for example: one day Coram James was called to a manor house in France to value a collection of modern and contemporary art for insurance purposes. The client flew him out first class, and he was picked up in a limousine to then spend the day looking at paintings by some of the world’s most important artists – interrupted only to enjoy a spectacular lunch surrounded by the French countryside. ‘Each piece was worth millions,’ Coram James recalls. ‘By the end of the day, I was picking up a piece and feeling quite blasé because it was only worth £5m, because others were worth around £20m. It was a real privilege and an absolute joy.’ The following day, back in London, Coram James waded through trinkets at a house clearance in Hackney. The solicitors engaged on a probate job needed him to value the contents of the home of someone who had died: ‘The deceased had been a hoarder, and he had a vast quantity of paintings, ceramics and silver,’ says Coram James. ‘My job is to find anything of value, and there was some decent stuff – for example, some Victorian wall clocks worth £500-£600 – but nothing on the scale of what I’d been looking at the previous day. It wasn’t exactly what I’d call a nice job.’

Coram James, who began his career at Christie’s auctioneers in London, finds his services tend to be required during some of life’s most extreme moments, such as bankruptcy, death or divorce. It was actually a divorce court case that led to one of his career highlights: visiting a Swiss bank vault in Zurich to value a collection of diamonds, where each piece was worth hundreds of thousands. Even house clearances are not always mundane. In one, Coram James spotted a 17th-century Chinese jar: ‘It sold at Christie’s for around £65,000, which was a complete surprise to the estate.’


02.14 // MODUS 17

Deep

Laser scanning in the world’s deepest gold mine

Reaching more than two miles under the earth’s surface, South Africa’s Mponeng gold mine is not for everyone. It takes around an hour to travel down to the works, where humidity is 100% and temperatures reach up to 40°C, fuelled by the rock, which can be an infernal 60°C. And however cautiously done, the geological pressures of mining result in the constant threat of earthquakes and explosions. But for James Jobling-Purser, managing director of 3D Mine Surveying International (MSI), it’s his job to carry out 3D scanning of this extreme environment, along with his team of surveyors.

The mine’s operator, AngloGold Ashanti, commissioned 3D MSI five years ago to scan the existing mine, which had been worked since 1981. Now, the Cornwall-based firm has an ongoing remit to add scans of newly opened areas to its digital model of the project. ‘We scan 300-400m at a time with a Leica scanner,’ Jobling-Purser explains. ‘The scanner rotates 360° on the horizontal and then 270° on the vertical, capturing information and creating a “data dome”. We then move the scanner to other areas to build up the picture.’ Soaring temperatures mean that the equipment can only be used for two hours before it must be cooled down with ice packs for 20 minutes. But 3D MSI’s staff face more serious risks: ‘Because of the humidity, your sweat stays on your skin so you just can’t cool down,’ explains Jobling-Purser. ‘We also work in the parts of the mine that have only just been developed, so the ventilation systems are not as efficient as in other areas.’ He and his team cope by drinking about a litre of water an hour, and their shifts are limited to four hours per day.

The 3D model is used by planners and engineers to help make more informed decisions about infrastructure installation, which saves AngloGold Ashanti time and money: ‘The best part of the job is seeing the modifications made to the mine based on our work,’ says Jobling-Purser. ‘If you are able to push from your mind the fact that you’re so deep, then you’re fine,’ he adds. And as for the threat of the mine caving in? ‘You can’t prepare for that, and if it happens you won’t know anything about it.’ >>Im

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Tough jobs //

air-conditioning system to extract dust and water from the air. In fact, so sophisticated is the AC system that 65% of the project’s cost will go on the mechanical and electrical (M&E) budget. For this reason, F+A will bring in their own specialist M&E team to work on the design and build contract, and review the contractor’s costs on an open-book basis: ‘This will allow us to work closely and challenge every cost,’ Walker says.

Even during construction, precision conditions in surrounding labs add extra pressure. For example, nearby is the Diamond Light Source synchrotron, which generates intense x-rays, infrared and ultraviolet light for research: ‘There can be absolutely no vibrations emanating from our site as just 1mm of movement would disrupt their experiments,’ says Walker. With construction due to start early 2014 and complete 12 months later, Walker says that although it’s a huge challenge, it’s also very exciting to work on such a cutting-edge project. >>

Design briefs don’t get more exacting than those of Oxfordshire-based Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) Space, which has provided research and equipment for more than 200 space missions. Nigel Walker MRICS is projects director at Franklin + Andrews (F+A), the company’s cost consultant. He says that failing to create the conditions that RAL Space requires for developing technology is not an option: ‘It costs so much to send a rocket into space, so if something goes wrong it’s a disaster.’

Currently, F+A is the quantity surveyor on the construction of a £25m space technology laboratory for the Science and Technology Facilities Council, where commercial and civil satellites will be built and tested. ‘The air on Earth is full of water and dust particles, but in space there’s nothing, so we have to recreate those conditions as much as possible,’ Walker explains. The 6,500m2 lab will house 10 sterile vacuum chambers with plastic walls that can be easily wiped clean, and a powerful

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02.14 // MODUS 19


capture geomatic data to build up a picture of the site, which will inform a conservation plan for the cave. Each survey is conducted in four to six hours, but due to the presence of the radioactive gas radon, the team must limit their visits to just one a month. As a result, surveying the cave will take about two years.

But poisonous gas is not the only hazard: ‘You’re often wading through waist-deep cold water for hundreds of metres, and there’s the odd point where you have to really squeeze to get through,’ Elliott explains. Then there’s the fact that it’s a maze: ‘You could get lost, which is a real concern. Each junction looks the same.’ But, he adds: ‘You never go on your own, and we leave arrows on the floor, which we then collect on the way out. The knack is to be adventurous, but also careful.’ And Elliott is adamant that any scary moments are worthwhile. ‘Caves are beautiful places,’ he says. ‘They are silent, dark and peaceful.’

‘A cave can be one of the few places left on the planet where no human has trod,’ says Tim Elliott FRICS, director of Elliott Environmental Surveyors in Northumberland. This is partly what attracts him to the hair-raising activity of environmental surveying inside caves, but such is Elliott’s passion that he mostly does it on a voluntary basis: ‘I used to go potholing with my dad when I was a child, and it has morphed into a business line – but it remains a hobby above all,’ he says.

In his spare time, Elliott is working with six other volunteers on a cave in the North Pennines that’s thought to be the UK’s largest ‘maze cave’. The labyrinth, formed many millennia ago, is some 10km in length, and is described by Elliott as ‘cold, wet, muddy and generally inhospitable.’ Lighting the way with head torches, the team are conducting what appears to be the first human exploration of the cave. They use distometers to digitally

Claustrophobic

surveying in complex cave systems Im

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Tough jobs //Im

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The construction of Wymeswold solar farm in Leicestershire, which is funded and owned by Hazel Capital, is the sort of project to rile local residents. Completed by developer Lark Energy in March 2013, the £35m 4MW photovoltaic farm is currently the UK’s biggest, comprising 130,000 dark-coloured solar panels, each around 3m high, covering more than 150 acres of countryside. Hugh Platt MRICS is a rural practice surveyor at local firm Mather Jamie, and it was his job to liaise between Lark Energy and his client, the land’s owner Prestwold Estate. Remarkably, the project has managed to avoid causing the type of public outcry that you might expect: ‘We held public exhibitions in the local villages and, fortunately, no significant objections were raised,’ Platt explains. Indeed, even the Campaign to Protect Rural England actively supports the development.

According to Platt, controversy was averted because of sheep: ‘We hit on the idea of continuing to use the land for sheep,’ he says. ‘They graze quite happily under the solar panels – in fact, if you look at the site at the right angle, it can actually look quite attractive.’ As well as softening the impact of the solar farm, and helping the site to retain some of its agricultural character, the sheep

also save the estate some money: ‘Now we don’t have to mow the grass, which would have actually been very awkward to do around the panels,’ Platt explains.

The entire project delivery was so smooth that Mather Jamie is now being asked to work on other solar farms: ‘This has the potential to be one of our major sources of income,’ says Platt.

Fast

RAcing AgAinst time At DAytonA

Controversial

Building the UK’s largest solar farm

The iconic motor racing venue Daytona International Speedway in Florida is undergoing a US$400m redevelopment. But its owner and operator, International Speedway Corporation (ISC), wants the venue’s programme of high-adrenalin races to continue as normal – which makes timing as critical for the construction project team as it is for the racing drivers, who hit speeds of 190mph on the 2.5-mile circuit.

ISC’s executive vice president of design and development Derek Muldowney MRICS runs capital improvements for 13 racing

tracks in the US. ‘A key event is the Daytona 500, which attracts about 200,000 visitors a year,’ he explains. ‘Although it lasts just one day, it generates a huge proportion of ISC’s annual revenue, so it has to happen.’

Yet the venue’s redevelopment programme is extensive, including the construction of a 101,000-seat extension to the grandstand area, 60 trackside corporate entertainment suites and 11 areas where fans can socialise while watching the on-track action on video screens. Construction began in 2013 and must finish in January 2016, in time for the 54th Rolex 24 at Daytona race and the 58th Daytona 500. Muldowney plans to keep the venue open by phasing construction and tightly controlling the timing of each phase: ‘We’ll maintain an audience capacity of 100,000, and use a combination of old and new seats as construction proceeds.’ This means keeping contractors to a precise and fast-paced programme, overseen by cost consultant Gleeds. ‘ISC wants to know which seats will be available, and when, months in advance, so you can imagine how important the scheduling is,’ says Chris Soffe FRICS, president of Gleeds Americas. ‘We’re using a design and build contract, which transfers the risk to the contractor, ensuring that it’s their responsibility to deliver on time.’

Due to Daytona Speedway’s fame, the project is being closely watched by the US media. ‘The scrutiny means that this is a high-pressure job,’ admits Muldowney. But, he adds: ‘You can’t beat the excitement of working in motor sport.’

02.14 // MODUS 21


the heat is on

COuld a COmbinatiOn Of rising energy priCes and the renewable heat inCentive finally make geOthermal energy a reality in the uk?

words by Stuart Watson illustration by Andrea Manzati

22 r ics.org

the surface in the UK – therefore, drilling is required to depths of 2-4km. Harnessing deep geothermal energy to generate heat, however, is a far more straightforward process. At depths of below 500m, hot water can be found at temperatures of 60°C or above, which can then be pumped to the surface and used to heat homes, and industrial and commercial properties, as part of district heating schemes. And with an increase in the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for deep geothermal due to be announced later this year, those in the industry looking to capitalise on heat sales could finally have the incentive they need to get projects off the ground.

To date, the only existing deep heat- generating geothermal plant in the UK is in Southampton. Here, the city council has been bringing hot water to the surface via a 1,800m borehole in the Wessex Basin since

When the UK’s biggest deep geothermal power project, United Downs in Cornwall, was forced

to give back a £6m government grant in April 2013, it was yet another blow to an industry that’s still struggling to reassure investors. But while power-generation projects such as this have been grabbing headlines, perhaps the best prospects for the deep geothermal industry in the UK lie in providing heat to properties, rather than electricity to the grid.

Using deep geothermal energy to generate electricity involves pumping cold water down into the ground, where it’s heated by hot granite rocks to create steam, which drives a turbine. For this to work, it’s generally accepted that the temperature of the rocks needs to be at least 100°C – temperatures that don’t exist close to

1986, and the system now serves a number of city-centre homes and businesses, saving an impressive 10,000 tonnes of CO2 every year. However, the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) has acknowledged that the current level of subsidy under the RHI is insufficient to bring similar plants forward before 2020, so an increase is crucial if developers are to follow Southampton’s lead.

A spokesperson from the Renewable Energy Association (REA) says that the organisation is ‘confident that an increase from 3.4p/kWh to 5p/kWh is a reasonable tariff to spur the development of deep geothermal heat projects’. Furthermore, the fact that there is already a successful deep geothermal heat-only scheme up and running in Southampton goes some way to reducing the perceived investment risk around deployment. According to REA,

MODUS_Feb14_P22-24_Geothermal_v2.indd 22 14/01/2014 10:36

02.14 // MODUS 23

Geothermal //

heat-only projects are, therefore, in a much better position than the power-generation side of the industry, which is currently being held back by a lack of incentives under the Renewables Obligation.

But developing heat-only schemes could be the best place to start, believes professor Jon Gluyas, head of the department of earth sciences at Durham University and one of the leads on the Science Central project in Newcastle, a mixed-use urban development that will incorporate deep geothermal into the overall energy plan. ‘In my opinion, the approach taken by companies in Cornwall, to try to generate power, is going for the most difficult option first,’ he says, adding that rudimentary estimates suggest the geothermal hot water available in the UK’s sedimentary basins – almost all of which lie near major population centres – is enough to heat the UK for 100 years. This is not a

figure to be ignored when 45% of the UK’s energy consumption is used for heating.

However, Ryan Law, managing director of Geothermal Engineering Ltd, the company behind United Downs in Cornwall, says that although there is a significant market for district heating schemes, the problem is securing a big customer demand all year round. On top of that, he says, there’s no existing communal heating grid, as there is in Germany, for example: ‘We can talk about a vast geothermal heat resource, but it’s no good if we can’t plug it in anywhere.’ >>

‘We see geothermal as an emerging specialism for the profession. At Strutt & Parker, we’ve developed a specialist team that brings surveying and engineering skills together to create a business case for taking an energy project forward. As with any project, financial feasibility is key. At the moment, investors won’t consider deep geothermal energy projects as the risk/return profile isn’t competitive with other sorts of low-carbon energy generation, so it’s going to be a long, hard road for those opportunities that exist to realise their potential. However, although it’s still early days, we are seeing growing interest from local authorities in district heating schemes, rather than indigenous systems, for major town-centre developments. Where opportunities exist for geothermal-sourced district heating, it’s a huge step to encourage developers to look beyond gas. At current pricing, geothermal is typically more expensive than gas-fuelled district energy schemes. But taking into account life-cycle operating costs, if gas prices continue to increase, then the financial case for geothermal will improve significantly. And once you’ve got district energy infrastructure in place, switching to geothermal in the future will be a real possibility.’

Surveyor’s view

‘Developers need to look beyond gas’Simon Crowe mriCS PArtner, reSOUrceS AnD energy, StrUtt & PArker

Are heAt-only

geothermAl energy SChemeS

worth purSuing? Share your views by emailing

[email protected] or tweeting

@modusmag.

MODUS_Feb14_P22-24_Geothermal_v2.indd 23 14/01/2014 10:36

24 r ics.org

Geothermal //

As a result, Law explains that his company is looking to roll out lots of smaller commercial projects in the short term.

Of course, this could all change if the government keeps up its enthusiasm for district heating networks as part of its push for low-carbon heating. DECC has already established the City Deals Programme, where certain cities with a geothermal resource, such as Manchester and Newcastle, can apply for around £1m to develop plans for heat networks. One company looking to take advantage of this is GT Energy, whose proposal for a deep geothermal heat plant on Devonshire Street in Manchester was approved in October 2013. For this scheme, two wells will be drilled into the Cheshire Basin to depths of around 3,200m, which

could supply heat to an equivalent of around 6,000 homes via a district heating network, including commercial customers such as hospitals. The energy centre would be built underground to minimise visual impact, with only a head house visible above ground. This is typical of deep geothermal energy projects, which require a relatively small surface footprint: usually around 1.5 acres during drilling, and less than half an acre during operation.

Alan Mitchell, principal at SLR Consulting, which carried out the Environmental Impact Assessment work for the Devonshire Street scheme, says that geothermal is a good option for DECC in the long term. ‘The issues that sometimes lead to the refusal of planning permission for renewable technologies – such as air quality concerns with energy from waste facilities or the visual impact of wind farms – don’t exist with geothermal schemes,’ he explains. Mitchell adds that providing the same permitted development rights as other utilities companies receive would also help to speed up deployment of geothermal heat schemes. ‘Developers can apply for a Local Development Plan to acquire permitted development rights for the district heating element of a project, but it slows progress,’ he says. ‘It would give the industry a boost if they could roll out these networks without having to get planning permission.’

If the expected increase in subsidy for deep geothermal under the RHI is approved, it’s likely that it will provide the impetus needed to see some heat-only schemes realise their potential. And, for Gluyas, this is a natural place for the industry to start: ‘As we get a better understanding of how these systems work, then we can look at how we move to power generation.’

‘There are potentially a lot of opportunities for surveyors within the deep geothermal industry. At the moment, we’re working on a scheme with a major landowner who is looking for an angle to promote a site for residential and commercial development. By doing some GIS (geographic information system) work on the site’s capabilities, we discovered that the development could potentially use geothermal power as a primary energy source. As a result, the energy source could provide a catalyst to release the site. We’re also looking at new technologies such as data centres, which require year-round cooling, and where there are potential opportunities for us to bring them together with geothermal energy providers.

‘Generally, people are receptive to the idea of geothermal heating projects. There are a lot of energy schemes where people have seen development in their backyard, but not necessarily seen their energy bills go down. Any developer will want a return on investment, but with district heating projects, there are clearly opportunities to see a direct local benefit, and that can help with a project’s overall accessibility.’

Surveyor’s view

‘Geothermal can help release a site’DaviD SanDbrook FriCS TechnIcAl DIrecTor – PlAnnInG AnD eSTATe MAnAGeMenT, Slr conSulTInG

iSSueS that leaD to the reFuSal oF planning permiSSion For renewable SChemeS Don’t eXiSt with geothermal

The face of Britain changes every day. Are you up to date?By making sure that your Ordnance Survey licensing is up to date, you can keep abreast of up to 10,000 changes to the British landscape which we record each day, thereby not only reducing risk to your organisation but also safeguarding your professional reputation.

To find out more, including the legal implications of not being correctly licensed, please contact your supplier or visit us online:www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/licensing

OS_Modus_274x202_Nov_AW.indd 1 03/10/2013 11:48MODUS_Feb14_P22-24_Geothermal_v2.indd 24 14/01/2014 10:37

ad to come

The face of Britain changes every day. Are you up to date?By making sure that your Ordnance Survey licensing is up to date, you can keep abreast of up to 10,000 changes to the British landscape which we record each day, thereby not only reducing risk to your organisation but also safeguarding your professional reputation.

To find out more, including the legal implications of not being correctly licensed, please contact your supplier or visit us online:www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/licensing

OS_Modus_274x202_Nov_AW.indd 1 03/10/2013 11:48MODUS_Feb14_P22-24_Geothermal_v2.indd 25 14/01/2014 10:37

Breaking point welcome to the bre research centre,

where building materials are put to the ultimate test

Words by Stuart Watson Photography by Gary Smith

26 r ics.org

Extreme testing //

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02.14 // MODUS 27

Furnace lab and burn hall Together these form the largest fire-testing facilities in Europe. Inside the furnace lab, three freestanding furnaces can reach 1,400-1,500°C, and are used to test the fire-resistance of products. Meanwhile, in a separate building, the burn hall looks at the effects of fire and the means of controlling it. Beneath a 9m2 extraction hood, objects are set alight – up to a maximum fire load of 10MW, the equivalent of two large cars ablaze – and the effects are monitored. Next to this, a variable geometry rig tests the effectiveness of sprinklers, while a third area features a mock-up building façade to test the resistance of cladding and flooring. ‘We’re also involved in major fire investigations,’ adds Dr Debbie Smith, director of fire sciences. For example, BRE helped to probe the 2009 Lakanal House tower block fire, in south London, which killed six people, by reproducing a section of one of the flats and burning it to test the theories of fire investigators. Large ducts carry away the smoke to be filtered so that no air pollution is produced. And for major tests, the local fire brigade is put on standby.

anechoic chamber Peter White, BRE’s marketing and communications manager, describes the echo-free chamber as perhaps the quietest place in the UK: ‘Zero decibels is the average limit of human hearing. In here, it’s quieter than that.’ The spectacular cubic space is the biggest chamber of its kind in the UK. Located within a reinforced concrete building, which itself is within another building isolated from ground vibrations by rubber buffers, the chamber’s walls, ceiling and floor are covered with deep foam rubber flanges. The effect almost completely removes any echo, giving voices within a disconcerting and deadened quality: ‘You can hear your own heart beat and the fluids gurgling around your body,’ says White. The chamber is used when an absolute value is required for the amount of sound produced – for example, when testing burglar alarms or the hum of an air-conditioning unit. In the adjoining transmission suites, floors or ceilings can be inserted and white noise played on one side while the sound level is recorded on the other to assess the sound-insulating qualities of materials. >>


Extreme testing //

The 500-Tonne press The lower plate of the press machine pushes up, squeezing the test subject – sometimes until it begins to crack. Dave Brooke, manager of the BRE structures lab, recalls one incident where a carbon-fibre-clad section of concrete completely shattered, sending shards flying across the room. Next to the press sits a squat, black box-furnace, where contractors for London’s Crossrail project have tested examples of their tunnel sections. While the press simulates the pressure of the surrounding rocks and soil, the heat of the furnace replicates a fire to determine whether or not the tunnel wall would collapse in a catastrophic accident. There is actually an even larger press on site, but it cannot be used at the moment because the building in which it sits has been closed for structural repair.

Wind Tunnel BRE’s wind-testing facilities would delight a model railway enthusiast. Tiny plastic reconstructions of buildings and development schemes – including some very familiar, such as the Millennium Dome and Canary Wharf tower – are piled on almost every surface or hung from the exterior of the wind tunnel. Typically at a scale of 1:200 or 1:300, these models are placed in the tunnel so that designers can understand the impact of the wind on their projects. Each facsimile is covered with hundreds of tiny holes into which wires are inserted to record the test results. With tall buildings, the crucial data will be how much the structure sways in the wind, whereas for other projects, it might be to gauge the impact of the wind on pedestrians in the vicinity. Metal plates inside the tunnel can be raised or lowered to simulate the roughness of the surrounding terrain, and the wind that plays over them is barely a gentle breeze as it too is reduced to scale. As well as testing models, the tunnel can also be used to blast life-size subjects with winds of up to 130mph, while spray nozzles can add the effect of rain if it’s needed. ‘There’s a growing interest in simulating extreme weather conditions,’ explains BRE’s marketing and communications manager Peter White. For example, roof mock-ups are used to find out if tiles or solar panels are likely to lift in high winds.

28 r ics.org


Carbon capture //

Structural teSt hall This cavernous concrete building features a two-foot-thick reinforced concrete floor covered with small holes into which hydraulic rams can be inserted. These can each push or pull with 100 tonnes of force to stress-test structures. The largest of its kind in the UK, the hall is also useful for other types of large-scale testing, such as the designs for the temporary stands for the London 2012 Olympic Stadium. A mock-up section with 150 seats was constructed and volunteers were asked to simulate the behaviour of crowds – including dancing to rock music and doing Mexican waves – to see how the structure would respond to the vibrations. ‘Over the past five years, almost every large UK building has been to BRE in one form or another,’ says Julie Bregulla, director of the building technology group. ‘When designers and engineers want to use a new material, span longer or go thinner, we provide a test regime that reassures everyone it will work.’ The lab is also used for forensic investigations – for example, part of the Ronan Point tower block in east London was reconstructed after it collapsed in 1968, killing four people.bre.co.uk


CONSTRUCTION FOR THE WORLD’S COLDEST, DRIEST AND WINDIEST CONTINENT REQUIRES PIONEERING SOLUTIONS, FINDS BRENDON HOOPER

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Halley VI 75º35’S, 26º39’W

The research station’s unique design was the result of an international design competition in collaboration with RIBA. Opened in early 2013, the 1,510m2 station is made up of eight modules, each sitting on ski-fi tted, hydraulic legs so that they can be easily towed to a new location.

Antarctic architecture //

ON THE EDGEEDGE

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02.14 // MODUS 31

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While many of Antarctica’s research stations are sited near the coast for greater accessibility, the IPF decided to build the Princess Elisabeth on a granite ridge 220km inland, which would create a more permanent station in a mountainous area ideal for scientifi c study. Of course, locating the station here greatly increased the logistical diffi culty of moving machinery and materials to the site – and resupplying it. So it was crucial for the project team to create an effi cient and logistical plan that would limit the amount of materials and equipment needed. ‘We had to be creative,’ Berte explains. ‘This included repurposing the wooden sledges that we used to carry around 20 large containers to the site into scaffolding during construction. We also used the wood as a building material for the below-level garage. With fewer materials to transport, we saved a lot of time and money.’ >>

Bharathi Polar Station69°24’S, 76°12’E

An inspired design by BOF Architekten, India’s National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research is made up of 134 shipping containers, prefabricated with an insulated skin and outer shell and raised up on stilts. Completed in 2012, the station has enough living space for 47 people and can be disassembled and removed at any time.

The modular design of Halley VI and the Bharathi Polar Station means they can be easily relocated

There are good reasons not to live in Antarctica. The temperature can drop below -60°C. Powerful winds can gust at speeds topping 100mph. The ground underneath moves as ice

shelves fl ow out to sea. Snow levels can rise by more than a metre a year, burying everything on the surface. And for months during winter, the land is in prolonged darkness.

But because Antarctica is such a unique environment for scientifi c study, every summer international teams of scientists and researchers arrive to stay in research stations for periods of weeks or months at a time. These stations are located far from rescue or supply outposts, and therefore have to allow for people to live and work in the extreme conditions not only self-suffi ciently, but also comfortably. To build them, project teams have to test the limits of design and construction.

‘Our approach was: don’t think of the Antarctic as the enemy – consider it as a place of opportunity,’ says Johan Berte, project manager at the International Polar Foundation (IPF). He oversaw the design and construction of the IPF’s Princess Elisabeth research station, which was inaugurated in 2009 as the fi rst ‘zero-emission’ research station in Antarctica. Made mostly from wood, the building relies only on passive heating techniques and renewable energy systems, controlled by a smart energy grid. Its wall modules, each made up of nine layers of air-tight insulation, are so energy effi cient that the station even has to be cooled during the summer months when the interior heats up from solar gain. Based in Belgium, Berte’s team started the complex planning of the project in 2004. ‘We thought: we have a lot of energy there, so let’s use it,’ he says. ‘There are high levels of sunlight in the summer to passively heat a building and power solar-energy systems, increased by the high refl ectivity of the white terrain, while the strong winds can drive wind turbines.’

The sustainable, spacecraft-like structure is just one example of a new generation of advanced buildings that have been specially designed to cope with and, more importantly, adapt to the continent’s extreme conditions.


32 r ics.org

Princess Elisabeth Antarctica71º57’S, 23º20’E

Opened in 2009, the International Polar Foundation’s highly sustainable Princess Elisabeth research station boasts zero emissions, with energy generated by nine wind turbines (48%), 380m2 photovoltaic solar panels (40%) and 22m2 thermal solar panels (12%).

The Princess Elisabeth station’s modular sections were prefabricated and thoroughly tested in Brussels before being transported to the site

Nearer to the coast, the British Antarctic Survey’s (BAS) Halley VI research station stands directly on the 150m-thick Brunt Ice Shelf, which is moving out to sea at a rate of around 500m per year. The location was a major reason why its predecessor, Halley V, had to be abandoned and demolished: having been fixed into the ice shelf, it was in danger of going adrift. But the genius of Halley VI, opened in early 2013, lies in its ability to get out of trouble. Designed by Hugh Broughton Architects and Aecom, the structure’s ski-mounted, modular construction allows it to be towed to another location when necessary, making it the first fully relocatable polar station in Antarctica

John Hammerton, director at Galliford Try, took the lead on the construction of the £25.8m project in 2006. For him, building a station of such complexity in a tough environment required rigorous planning and a resolute spirit of teamwork: ‘It was key to assemble a team that could identify problems at an early stage, come up with solutions and minimise the risks to the project,’ he says. These risks became apparent when the team had to move cargo up to the station’s construction site. As the Brunt Ice Shelf rises some 30m above sea level, all the materials delivered to Halley VI had to be unloaded onto the much thinner sea ice – a potentially very dangerous undertaking. ‘We gathered expert advice from BAS, and others on the project team, to figure out a strategy for moving the heavy goods and equipment across the ice,’ Hammerton explains. ‘We couldn’t unload and get up to the location. Because the sea-ice thickness changes

every year, we had to plan and continually assess what we thought was a sensible load to work with, deciding that, to get everything to the site within a good margin of safety, the weight of each sledge and its cargo had to be a maximum of 9.5 tonnes.’

The logistical constraints of the site also determined the station’s modular design. Halley VI is made up of eight aerodynamic pods clad in highly insulated fibre- reinforced plastic panels. The pods are connected and arranged in a straight line side-on to the prevailing wind to help slow the formation of snowdrifts around the structure. Also, to ease its transportation and minimise the amount of building work on site, the design called for as much prefabrication and standardisation as possible. ‘It’s extremely expensive to transport heavy materials to Antarctica, and to keep the construction team there for some time,’ says Hammerton. ‘So the more you can do beforehand, the better – for example, we constructed the steel cassette frame that makes up the base of the modules in two halves at our base in Cape Town, and also attached its hydraulic legs before transporting it to the site.’

Berte and the IPF team on the Princess Elisabeth also employed a prefabrication construction strategy. As part of a detailed plan, the station’s modular sections first underwent a test build in Brussels, before being taken apart, adjusted where necessary, and then repacked for shipping to Antarctica. ‘This was a very good exercise,’ says Berte, who also believes their thorough design methodology helped them avoid any major problems during assembly at the site. It was a level of preparation


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learned from his previous experience in the space sector, designing elements for the International Space Station. ‘It’s important to work with everything in parallel,’ he says. ‘One part of the structure can affect another as the station is an organic thing; a fully integrated system.’

The preparation also involved testing the structure in a wind tunnel to see how well it would cope with the region’s powerful, high-density katabatic winds, which are pulled down the slopes by the force of gravity and can rapidly change direction. The team used the wind tunnel to monitor how well the horizontal and vertical edges of the building would help spread pressure across a low and even area of the skin, regardless of which direction the wind hits the structure. ‘Really, there’s nothing aesthetic about the design – everything you see has a double or triple function,’ adds Berte.

material concernsAnother major concern when building in the Antarctic is the durability of the materials – a risk area identified by Hammerton’s team when they put together the risk appraisal for Halley VI. As most products are only tested to -20°C, how can you guarantee that what you take will withstand temperatures as low as -60°C, and still perform effectively? The solution for the Halley VI team was to find products that had already been used on other polar stations, or in extremely cold regions. One example was the flexible connectors they needed to join one module to the next. The modules are on hydraulic legs, so the station can be jacked up each year to lift the feet out of the heavy snow deposits – but they needed to be able to do this without having to disconnect the modules and disrupt the work inside, recalls Hammerton. After an international search, the team found a train connector that had been tried and tested in regions subject to extreme cold, such as Siberia: ‘When we slowly raise the modules, the rubber couplers allow us to accommodate 100mm of movement but, importantly, they don’t turn brittle in the low temperatures,’ Hammerton explains.

And what if you find you are short of materials on site? ‘3D modelling is becoming essential to projects such as Halley VI, to make sure that this doesn’t happen,’ says Hammerton. ‘During the design stage, we were able to model the project to ensure materials such as cables were the right length, because there are no nearby stores to go to if you come up short due to an unforeseen obstacle.’

Towards the winter months, as the days grow darker, all the research teams on the Princess Elisabeth leave the station, but the building must still be kept in good condition for when they return in the spring. Rather than sending costly maintenance crews, the team at the IPF’s headquarters in Belgium keep the station ticking along via satellite control: ‘During this time, we close down the essential living systems, such as water distribution, and run the very basics of the station remotely,’ Berte explains. ‘To protect the scientific instruments from the cold, the building is kept warm by an energy management system; it effectively hibernates for eight months of the year.’ Incredibly, a limited research team is able to stay in the Halley VI over winter, so the sensitive equipment is always protected – but during construction, equipment such as water-based paints had to be kept in a separate warm store to protect it from the extreme cold.

For both the IPF and Galliford Try teams, the ongoing success of these two diversely located construction projects has been borne out of meticulous planning, adapting to the extreme conditions and working within the limits that the environment sets them. ‘The adage that a month spent at the front of a project saves you a year at the end really paid dividends on Halley VI,’ says Hammerton, who notes that since its handover the only major complaint from the station manager has been about a lack of storage space for towels. ‘Obviously, the aim of any project is to get it running on time and with zero defects,’ he adds, ‘but in the isolation of Antarctica, it’s life-critical.’ antarcticstation.org antarctica.ac.uk

Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station90°S, 00°E Named after the explorers who first attained the South Pole in 1911 and 1912, the original building was founded in 1957, and updated in 1975 to include a 50m-wide geodesic dome. It was further redeveloped and modernised between 1997 and 2008, and now supports up to 150 staff at 2,835m above sea level.

Much of the Amundsen-Scott South Pole Station is raised up on columns to reduce the effects of snow accumulation

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Words by Amanda Birch Illustrations by Thomas Danthony

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Temperatures as high as 50°C are set to be a major issue for the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Can innovation save the day, or is this just a maTCh made in hell?

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Qatar 2022 //

When the Gulf state of Qatar was controversially selected to host the 2022 World Cup, the reaction

was mixed. It’s not just that the small, rich country is one of the hottest on the planet, but the tournament is currently scheduled to take place during the summer, when temperatures can soar to 50°C. But, despite mounting pressure on FIFA to move the event to winter, both Qatar and construction experts insist that it is feasible to host the tournament in June and July.

Michael Beaven is engineering leader at Arup Associates, the design studio that worked on the FIFA 2022 Showcase Stadium,

which helped to secure Qatar as World Cup host: ‘There’s been a lot in the press about not being able to play sport in 50°C heat, but that’s never been the proposal,’ he explains. ‘The proposition has always been that the stadiums and surrounding infrastructure will be cooled, and cooled responsibly by generating renewable power.’

The 500-seat Showcase Stadium was the only ‘model stadium’ to be built near Doha, where around eight new stadiums will be constructed for the World Cup. It employed innovative renewable-energy technologies, which demonstrated to FIFA that a stadium can be cool and comfortable for athletes and spectators alike, even in the most extreme >>


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summer conditions. ‘It’s important that people recognise the idea of cooling a stadium isn’t new: other very hot countries already do it, or heat stadiums where it’s very cold,’ says Beaven. ‘Before the Showcase was built, Qatar already had the Al-Sadd stadium in Doha, which features very successful cooling technology. But we need to look at the most sustainable way of cooling stadiums, and supplying them with renewable energy supplies.’

The Showcase Stadium is a physical demonstration of inventive and sustainable strategies. The most visually

striking is the rotating canopy roof: in mild weather, the open roof allows the stadium to ventilate naturally, but during extremely hot weather, the roof can be closed during the day when the sun is at its most intense. Made from permeable screens of triangulated PVC fabric, with an inner cladding of translucent ETFE (ethylene tetrafluoroethylene) cushions – the same material used for the domed roofs at the Eden Project in Cornwall – the lightweight roof keeps radiant and conductive heat out, while still allowing natural lighting into the arena.

Inside, cooled air is delivered via units installed under the spectator seats, which flows down to pitch level where it’s supplemented with additional air supplies around the pitch. As cool air is denser, it will naturally remain at the lower level even when the roof is open, allowing games to be played in the evening under an open sky. The solar-powered air-cooling system is supplied by a photovoltaic (PV) solar farm outside the stadium and a Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) system, where an array of solar thermal collectors (strips of mirrored metal) track the sun, focusing its light on to water-filled pipes. The heated water then charges the ice store, which cools the air.

Similar strategies have been employed at another Arup stadium project – the 35-acre Singapore Sports Hub, due for completion in April 2014. The centrepiece is a huge, 55,000-seat national stadium, which also features a retractable roof and employs energy-efficient technology to deliver cool air under every seat, while PV arrays will offset the carbon emissions of the cooling systems. Engineering and design consultancy Aecom is also part of the team working on the Singapore Sports Hub, and associate Hein Le Roux MRICS explains why the air-conditioning technology used here is so efficient: ‘The key is that the system only cools the lower areas of air. In American stadiums, for example, cool air is often pumped from the top down, resulting in extra costs in

‘The outdoor spaces don’t have to be air-conditioned to be comfortable, there are also passive ways to bring the temperature down’

terms of distributing the air.’ Le Roux says he is now seeing this sustainable cooling approach adopted for other types of building in very hot countries.

Given the immense secrecy of designs, it’s not certain whether or not the new stadiums proposed for the 2022 World Cup will employ similar cooling strategies. But embracing PV and CSP technology to generate renewable energy seems a sensible place to start for the desert state: ‘You could have huge areas of CSP farms,’ says Le Roux. ‘There are already initiatives in the Middle East looking at concentrated solar thermal from a power production point of view – renewable energy isn’t very high on their agenda, but they do see the opportunity of capitalising on their climate.’ Nearby, Abu Dhabi is already taking advantage of its high levels of direct solar irradiation. Shams 1, the first part of the Shams solar power station, uses parabolic trough technology to collect concentrated heat from sunlight, the most proven solar thermal electric energy. A large field of parabolic trough solar collectors focus the sun on to a pipe, generating high-pressure, super-heated steam, which runs a turbine to produce electricity. With a 100MW capacity, this is currently one of the largest CSP plants in the world.

Back in Qatar, a district system is used in Doha to cool buildings, which involves sending cooled water through pipes to air-conditioning systems. Whether that water is cooled by fossil fuels or renewable energy is a matter of choice, but Le Roux says that it’s about finding the right balance of different sources of energy and combining them. And long-term, the solar farms constructed could be used to cool the city and the public realm, rather than just the World Cup stadiums.

Outside the arenaSo far, the focus has largely been on keeping stadiums cool during the summer. But what happens when the game is over and the football fans move from a cooled environment into the intense heat outside? Ed Parham, associate director at consultancy Space Syntax, which uses spatial modelling software to analyse pedestrian movement, says that fans generally exit stadiums pretty quickly. In a project for a London stadium, for example, Parham found that around half the fans at the match took just five minutes to exit. Whether this pattern would be the same at a World Cup match is uncertain, but Parham suggests that perhaps fans could be encouraged to stay longer in the cool stadium environment, and their departures staggered to avoid a dense crowd.

Parham also notes that, generally, people don’t like to stand still for long, and that patterns of movement can be influenced by placing physical objects in the pedestrian flow. ‘In the centre of Medina [Saudi Arabia], for example, at certain times of the year, when it’s very hot, umbrella- like structures are erected around the mosque to provide shade,’ he says. ‘In Doha, similar structures could be strategically placed to encourage movement to certain areas, such as first-aid points or restaurants.’


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Qatar 2022 //

On a bigger scale, the proposed masterplans for Doha – and there are many – are also using modelling experts to help create places for people that are thermally comfortable. A good example is the 10km2 Airport City, which will link the new Hamad International Airport (HIA) with Doha. Duncan Phillips, principal at RWDI consulting engineers and scientists, which is based near Toronto, is working with architects OMA on the HIA project. ‘We did the micro-climate design, and strategies included everything from the massing of buildings to organic shading devices, such as trees, and evaporative cooling in public areas,’ he explains. ‘The idea is that

rather than do everything everywhere, you pick and choose depending on what activity is in that zone.’

Maintaining people’s thermal comfort outside in the public realm has generally been a low priority in many Middle Eastern countries. ‘People tend to dart from one air-conditioned building to another, because the public realm hasn’t been important,’ adds Phillips. But, he says, this approach is changing, and design work for outdoor projects in Qatar is now adopting systems such as the Qatar Sustainability Assessment System, which aims to raise awareness among the local construction industry of the importance of sustainable design.

Leading the wayImportant lessons could be learned from some of the ambitious masterplans already implemented, such as Masdar City in Abu Dhabi, which serves as a model of green urban development. Designed by architects Foster + Partners, with micro-climate recommendations from RWDI, the project is full of sustainable innovations. For example, when compared to a conventional approach to laboratory ventilation, using chilled beams integrated into the lab ceiling, combined with advanced air control devices, reduces the number of air changes required per hour from around nine to just five – which results in a massive energy saving.

Another example is the wind tower, which directs upper-level winds down to the open-air public square at its base. ‘At Masdar, we’ve created an urban environment that people visit because it’s nicer than being in central Abu Dhabi,’ says Gerard Evenden, senior partner at Foster + Partners. ‘The outdoor spaces don’t have to be air-conditioned to be comfortable, there are also passive ways to bring the temperature down.’ These include canopies and dense pockets of trees, as well as placing buildings closer together so that parts of the façade are shaded at different times of the day, resulting in less heat build-up internally. Also, heavy thermal mass has only been employed at ground level, where it’s in shade and can radiate cool. In fact, Evenden generally warns against use of heavyweight materials with high thermal mass in the Middle East – although he stresses that this approach doesn’t necessarily apply to stadium architecture. ‘The use of lightweight, highly conductive materials, with low thermal mass and good insulation, limits the radiation transfer through the structure of the building,’ he explains.

The technologies used in Masdar, and in other projects, demonstrate that it is possible to cool buildings and provide comfortable outdoor spaces in very hot countries, without resorting to quick, carbon-emitting solutions. However, it’s important that the solutions are appropriate: ‘You have to protect against the idea that you can just bring in international buildings and plonk them in the desert,’ says Evenden. ‘You have to appreciate the local conditions, and the building’s own micro-climate, and that presents an enormous challenge.’

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Mexico city Two World Cups, in 1970 and 1986, were hosted by Mexico City, which has a minimum altitude of 2,200m above sea level. Exercising at high altitude can affect an athlete’s performance, and the reduced oxygen availability at this level can lead to symptoms including higher heart rates, headaches, fatigue and nausea. Athletes were recommended to arrive early and allow two or three weeks to acclimatise.

:Late saves a history of ‘difficult’ world cups

usa Florida was one of nine cities across the US that held matches during the 1994 World Cup. Here, the high temperatures and humidity inside the stadium prompted the Irish coach, Jack Charlton, to demand his players be allowed to top up with water. Some memorable scenes followed, as Charlton argued with the referee and clashed with officials.

brazil One of the stadiums being built for this year’s World Cup is in the heart of Brazil’s rainforest (pictured below). The stifling humidity in Manaus, the Amazon’s largest city, has already caused some major problems during the construction of the new stadium, Arena da Amazônia, but the greater concern is rainfall. Engineers on the project have had to develop a special drainage system to ensure the stadium doesn’t flood.

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The design, layout and formatting of your company’s report style conveys your image, professionalism, value and authority over the subject matter. But maintaining templates, and adhering to agreed standards, logos, fonts and legal text, while also maintaining version control across a number of laptops and desktop PCs, is not always easy.

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As of July 2013, employees have to pay a fee to bring employment claims against their employer (unless they are exempt) for the first time since the establishment of employment tribunals in 1964. As a result, many employers are now hopeful that they will receive fewer employment tribunal claims; however, avoiding potential discrimination claims should remain an absolute priority. Unlike claims for unfair dismissal, individuals can make discrimination claims even before they have started work – they just need to have applied for a role. And, importantly, there is no cap on the amount awarded for a successful discrimination claim.

Here are some practical tips for walking the tightrope between selecting the right candidate for a role and avoiding what can be very costly discrimination claims.

Advertise fAirlyBe mindful of the language you use in job adverts. It’s unlawful to publish any form of advertisement that indicates, or might reasonably be understood to indicate, an intention to discriminate because of a candidate’s age, gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy or potential pregnancy. For

example, avoid gender-specific job titles and expressions such as ‘mature’ or ‘junior’, which suggest that a candidate of a certain age is sought. Also, unless they are absolutely and justifiably required for the role, try to avoid requesting a specific qualification, or period of work experience in a particular field, as this will

likely discriminate against older or younger candidates. There are a few circumstances when you can reasonably

favour a particular group – for example, requiring a female (rather than a male) attendant to work in a female changing room. However, it would be prudent to take legal advice before limiting a role to a specific group.

In the same vein, an application form shouldn’t require candidates to provide personal details either, such as their age, nationality or marital status – unless they are directly related to the job. Instead, these can be included on a separate Equal Opportunities monitoring form.

Following the application process, candidates should be shortlisted on the basis of their merits alone, having been considered against objective criteria that’s relevant to the role in question.

Avoid interview pitfAllsAnyone carrying out interviews should be appropriately trained and guided by written recruitment policies. The questions asked during interview should be based on the objective criteria relevant to the role in question, and framed in a way to avoid any suggestion of discrimination. In particular, it’s unlawful to ask about a candidate’s health before a job offer is made, either on the application form or at the interview stage. This includes asking how many days’ sick leave they’ve had. There are, however, certain exceptions – for example, questions that seek to establish whether or not the candidate is able to participate in the interview, or whether the candidate will be medically able to undertake a function that is intrinsic to the role. If a candidate’s health is relevant to the role, this should be addressed only after a conditional job offer has been made.

It’s also important not to ask about a candidate’s marital status and/or childcare commitments, as this may infer sex discrimination, and avoid questions about nationality and place of birth, which may infer race discrimination. Instead, appropriate identity checks should be carried out at the job offer stage to ensure a candidate’s eligibility to work in the UK.

For candidates who are not successful, always keep a record of the grounds for their rejection as a protective measure in case an allegation of discrimination is made. If contemporaneous notes show a justifiable and non-discriminatory reason for rejecting the candidate, you will be in a much stronger position to refute allegations of discrimination, and could potentially dissuade a disgruntled candidate from bringing an employment claim at all.

Michelle lAwlor-perkins is a solicitor in the employment team at Blake Lapthorn. bllaw.co.uk

for cAndidAtes who Are not successful, AlwAys keep A record of the grounds for their rejection

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Law advice //

Employment discrimination:

wAtch your stepBy employment law specialist Michelle lawlor-perkins

MODUS_Feb14_P38-39_Law advice.indd 39 14/01/2014 11:21

New look CDM?ECA DirECtor of BusinEss sErviCEs PAul rEEvE on whAt to ExPECt from thE nEw rEgulAtions

After much delay, the long-anticipated health and safety Executive (hsE) consultation on changes to the Construction (Design and management) regulations 2007 (CDm) is finally imminent. following the consultation, once the hsE has collated and considered all the comments, the construction industry will be called upon to produce new guidance based on the draft. the practical application of CDm hinges on its supporting guidance, and updating it will be a huge challenge.

what this MeaNs for youthe revised CDm regulations and guidance is expected to highlight how key parts of CDm cover smaller projects and, significantly for non-construction firms, building maintenance – which has not previously been widely recognised. the new guidance will place less emphasis on the additional requirements that only apply to ‘notifiable’ work (construction work that involves more than 30 days’ work and/or 500 person days), and will instead focus on the regulations

that must be followed for all construction-related activity. however, it’s thought that the new guidance may propose removing the CDm coordinator role on notifiable projects, and instead replacing the design phase health and safety coordination with a ‘principal designer’ – a new role that will be of interest to many riCs members.

the new guidance will replace the current CDm Approved Code of Practice, and will hopefully still contain core safety pre-qualification questions. this guidance will not come into effect until the new CDm regulations are implemented, which is currently expected to be April 2015.

CDM-reaDywhether advising clients on drawings and specifications, or acting as a project manager or an employer’s agent, all construction professionals need to know how CDm affects them and their clients. the ECA provides its members with extensive professional support on how to meet CDm

For the gold standard, hire an ECA member on your building project: Work guaranteed by ECA Thoroughly vetted Rigorously inspected and tested Working to the latest standards Safety compliant and/or SSIP assessed Adhere to ECA’s Code of Fair Trading Full support and backing of ECA

visit eca.co.uk to find an ECA contractor in your area.

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requirements, and many ECA members are able to assist with competent building services design, project management and the production of effective post-construction health and safety files. the ECA website features a searchable list of around 700 contractors who already meet the applicable safety pre-qualification requirements: visit eca.co.uk/advanced-search and tick ‘ssiP-compliant’ to search.

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Many of us are proud of our websites, but although the site belongs to you, it wasn’t built for you. It was built for your visitors, who are all potential clients, and you only have seconds to pique their interest. Here are a few suggestions on how to make sure your website is as effective as it can be.

Employ a clEar navigation systEmNot everyone will land on the homepage; they could follow a link or arrive via a search engine, so a clear navigation system is essential. Include a tagline in the header, so that from every page, a visitor can see clearly who you are and what you do. Place the primary navigation bar along the top or on the left, under the logo/tagline, and always begin with a ‘Home’ tab and end with a ‘Contact us’ tab, with meaningful tab headings in between. Drop-down menus should be avoided if possible.

It’s important to maintain a consistent layout throughout the site: nobody likes to click on a new page and find that the navigation has changed or the search box has moved.

The primary navigation bar should be focused on the services you offer, with links to company information, the ‘About us’ page, T&Cs etc in the footer navigation bar. Also, your logo/tagline should be clickable and linked to the homepage, and your contact details should feature clearly on every page.

makE thE contEnt countThe layout, colours, fonts etc all pale into insignificance when measured against the words on the page. So cast a critical eye over every page and ask: is the purpose clear? Does it add value? Would someone landing here pick up the phone after reading the words?

Each page should begin with headline information, so the visitor can quickly assess the relevance of the content. Then follow up with supporting information and evidence of competence, such as case studies, testimonials, stats and images. Spend time on your page titles, as these are still the prime source of information for the search engines, and make sure each is unique and has the keywords in place. Also make sure that the important information is visible without scrolling down the page on all platforms (desktop PC, tablet and smartphone), and avoid long sentences and jargon.

Keep the layout clean and simple, and avoid use of sliders, animations and carousels, as they can be very distracting.

The same applies for invitations to follow you on Twitter, join your Facebook group or read your blog – you don’t want your visitors to wander off. Be ruthless in clearing out the distractions and make sure the site is 100% focused on converting visitors into clients.

Add hyperlinks to your content to lead the visitor to related information within the site, and include a ‘call to action’ on every page in an obvious place. If you want the visitor to call you, put your number right in front of them – don’t hide it away in the footer or on a different page.

tEst your wEbsitEVisit every page to check that the content loads quickly and correctly, and make sure that every page leads somewhere with a call to action or link to further information. Also make sure that the website works on all platforms and in all the major browsers, and check that the hyperlinks and contact forms function properly, and that useful advice is given if a mistake is made filling out a form.

analysE your statsInstall an analytics package, and then use it to identify where your visitors land, what they did and, most importantly, where they left the site (exit pages). See if there’s anything you can do on these exit pages to encourage people to stay on the site or take action. If a high proportion of visitors leave the site within seconds, it means the page they landed on didn’t meet their expectations. This is not good news but, by following the advice above, you should be able to fix this problem. You can also use the programme to investigate the keywords that visitors used to find your site, and the content of referring websites, to make sure the content they are directed to on your site is relevant.

graham smith provides effective website help and advice at aerin.co.uk.

bE ruthlEss in clEaring out distractions and makE surE thE sitE is focusEd on convErting visitors into cliEnts

How to make your

wEbsitE bEttErBy website design expert graham smith

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Business advice //

MODUS_Feb14_P40-41_Business advice_v2.indd 41 14/01/2014 11:25

:rics news :diary :benefits :resources

Surveyors Professional Indemnity

a New Exclusive PI Facility

E: [email protected]/surveyors

www.lockton.com/surveyors

Lockton Companies LLP. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. A Lloyd’s Broker.

Contact us for further details

0845 050 0262

RICS members quote MOD13

MODUS_Feb14_P43-51_Info.v3.indd 42 14/01/2014 11:33

01.11 // MODUS 09

Information :rics news :diary :benefits :resources

The International Property Measurement Standards Coalition (IPMSC) has launched a public consultation on the new International Property Measurement Standard for office buildings. The new standard will be the first of its kind, providing a common language for all real estate practitioners so that property assets can be measured in a consistent way. This will create a more transparent marketplace, greater public trust, stronger investor confidence and increased market stability. Closing on 21 March, the IPMSC calls for all real estate professionals to contribute their expertise.ipmsc.org

office standard useful numberscontact centre +44 (0)24 7686 8555

General enquiriesAPC guidanceSubscriptionsPasswordsLibraryBookshop

regulation helpline +44 (0)20 7695 1670

confidential helpline +44 (0)20 7334 3867

dispute resolution services +44 (0)20 7334 3806

switchboard +44 (0)20 7222 7000

the ipms consultation gives surveyors the opportunity to influence one of the biggest advancements the profession has seen in decades

alexander aronsohn RICS Director

02.14 // MODUS 43

the potential valuation variation between markets

due to inconsistent measurement

standards

24%

Surveyors Professional Indemnity

a New Exclusive PI Facility

E: [email protected]/surveyors

www.lockton.com/surveyors

Lockton Companies LLP. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. A Lloyd’s Broker.

Contact us for further details

0845 050 0262

RICS members quote MOD13

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facts, stats & surveys

RICS news //

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more surveyors expect workloads to increase over next 12 months –

the highest reading yet

more surveyors reported an increase in private

housing workloads during Q4

more surveyors reported an increase in workloads during Q4 – the highest

reading in the survey’s history

38%

New partnership with China the Government of sichuan, china’s fourth largest province, has announced a partnership with rIcs that will build domestic professional services capacity in the region’s fast-growing construction and real estate sectors. ranked above both shanghai and Beijing in a 2012

index of chinese provincial GDP per capita, sichuan is one of china’s major industrial centres, with its strong presence in heavy industries, and the automotive, and energy and resources sectors. this marks the beginning of the sichuan Province Housing

& urban-rural Development Bureau and rIcs collaboration for bilateral cooperation on construction, planning, design, surveying and project management. the intention is to build a platform with rIcs for knowledge exchange and to help develop professional talent.

House prices in the UK will see an increase of 8% over the course of next year, while the cost of renting a home should rise by a further 2%. this growth is being driven by the acute imbalance between burgeoning buyer demand and sluggish supply, with new instructions to estate agents close to stagnating. although significant challenges still remain to achieving a sustainable economic recovery, 2014 may well see the nascent pick-up in activity gather pace, and this will be reflected in the housing market. In addition, the number of transactions should also see a further increase, moving up from 1.05m in 2013 to 1.2m. But while this represents a very positive improvement, to put it in context, total sales in 2006 were 1.67m.

although the price rises will be experienced right across the uK, predictably the biggest increases will be seen in the capital, where the cost of a home is predicted to grow by around 11%. However, it remains to be seen what impact the recently announced increase in capital gains tax for overseas vendors will have on the prime central London market.

rIcs has launched the think strategic campaign to provide free news and advice from industry experts directly to facilities management (fM) practitioners. the campaign is designed to encourage fM professionals to think and act in a more strategic way by giving them the tools they need to develop an fM plan that will directly feed into the wider corporate objectives of their organisations and clients. as a result, fM leaders will be able to demonstrate the value of the profession to business and, therefore, gain a competitive advantage. free to download from the rIcs website, the articles will address topical issues, such as the risks of cost-cutting, performance benchmarking and talking the language of the boardroom.rics.org/thinkstrategic

MOre StrateGic FM

House PrIce juMP In 2014

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01.11 // MODUS 0902.14 // MODUS 45

of respondents report skills shortages – the highest reading since

Q2 2006

more surveyors expect headcount to increase over next 12 months –

the highest reading yet

more surveyors expect profit margins to

increase over next 12 months

Taken from the Q4 2013 RICS construction market survey.

rics.org/marketsurveysIf you’d like to contribute to

the next survey, email [email protected].

Michael Newey FRICS RICS President

‘Students, employers and academics all have a shared responsibility to ensure the future of our profession’

Our complex and rapidly changing world forces us to ask questions about the future. Many of the world’s biggest companies devote

a huge amount of effort to looking beyond the horizon in order to remain relevant, but built environment professionals, particularly, have a duty to plan for the world of tomorrow. Next month, at MIPIM, I’ll be introducing a panel of leading thinkers to discuss key trends. We’ll be building on Professor John Radcliffe’s report, Just imagine, which identified seven pillars of change for built environment professionals: technology; multidisciplinary teams; strategic thinking; sustainability; networks; leadership and inspiration; and ethics, values and standards.

Where will future jobs be? What skills will be needed? Some answers are already emerging. We need to get better at making the built environment more resilient to climate change, and there’s a growing demand for tunnelling and underground construction. Projected growth in world energy consumption of 36% by 2035 will also drive new skills requirements, while multidisciplinary and increasingly networked teams are likely to need greater foreign language ability.

Nowhere are these questions more relevant than in our universities, and the many students

that I meet are particularly inspired by RICS’ Futures work. As tomorrow’s professionals, students want to know what new skills and knowledge they’ll need, while employers want a reliable stream of suitably qualified graduates, and universities want to offer the courses that the market demands. So students, employers and academics all have a shared responsibility to ensure the future of our profession, with as much help as RICS can provide. I’ve seen many examples of good practice. Some universities are helping to facilitate relationships between students, companies and alumni, while the best employers are offering trainees guidance, linking them with mentors within their own company, and supporting them to follow alternative routes to the APC (Assessment of Professional Competence).

Inevitably, technology will have a huge impact. Universities are beginning to publish entire courses online – the so-called massive open online courses (MOOCs) – via YouTube, iTunes and other channels. And, increasingly, knowledge will be disseminated virtually by crowdsourcing communities sharing what they know. But whatever the future holds, we will always want to be sure that those who receive the RICS diploma are technically competent and follow ethical behaviours.

At one time, garden cities in the UK offered planned, self-contained communities surrounded by greenbelts, containing a mix of homes, industry and agriculture. But could they again provide

the solution to the current housing crisis? This year, the Wolfson Economics Prize of £250,000 will be awarded to the entrant who offers the best response for how to deliver a new garden city

that is popular, visionary and economically viable. There are also ‘light bulb’ prizes for those submissions that are particularly innovative and creative. Chair of the judges, chartered surveyor Trevor

Osborne, is calling on RICS members to contribute to the debate, considering their experience of developing at scale and at speed. Entries must be in by 3 March. rics.org/gardencities

A new geneRAtIon of gARden CItIeS

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

55%50%

29%


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Key in hand, I walk up four fl ights of stairs to a recently converted studio fl at. I knock (just in case). ‘What are you doing here?’ demands the tenant, as if my tapes, torch and hammer didn’t make it clear I was there to survey the property. The tenant didn’t know the landlord was selling.

The offi ce rings regarding another house: ‘No, we can’t meet you there. We’re busy. You’ll have to collect the keys,’ they say. The offi ce is 15 miles from the property.

Another day, I walk gingerly on to a building site. The house has no kitchen, no bathroom and no electricity. But, ‘Yes, it’s totally ready for you to survey,’ I’m told.

Over the 30 or more years that I’ve been practising as a building surveyor, the relationship between the estate agent and the applicant has altered significantly. An applicant is now seen as the gateway to riches and, led by Foxtons, in have come the comfy sofas, the plasma screens and the well-chilled bottles of mineral water.

But what of the relationship between the estate agent and the building surveyor? In my opinion, here there is a total lack of respect. Many agents consider surveyors to be no more than a hindrance to a sale; a tedious bridge that must be crossed before agents are on the open road to a sale. And, because of that, some agents will be helpful in order to get that box ticked – but what they don’t appreciate is that, in just three hours, we can establish what the house is all about and can enlighten agents of defects in a property that a client may not have mentioned.

Fortunately, however, on two occasions recently I came away with hope. Firstly, an agent who had been through three recessions, and who knew exactly where surveyors fi tted into a possible sale, demonstrated tremendous respect and was very helpful. Then there was a fi rm who paid for an abortive survey (which was so bad the client didn’t even want it to be written up), just to see what the property was about.

An estate agent should never put a surveyor in the position of grovelling to a tenant on a hashed-up appointment, they should check a house is actually fi nished before the surveyor arrives, and they should make a point of meeting surveyors at the property as a matter of courtesy. Is that too much to ask?

If you are interested in being a secret surveyor, email [email protected].

‘MANY AGENTS CONSIDER SURVEYORS NO MORE THAN A HINDRANCE TO A SALE’

Secret Surveyor

46 r ics.org

RICS news //

RED BOOK GOES LIVEThe latest edition of the RICS Valuation – Professional Standards (the Red Book) is now in eff ect. It contains mandatory rules, best practice guidance and related commentary for all members involved in undertaking asset valuations. Issued by RICS, the Red Book is part of our commitment to promoting and supporting high standards in valuation delivery worldwide. We’ve also created a free training guide and how-to video session, which provide tips and advice on downloading the Red Book and on how to join the valuation professional group community. Access these at rics.org/redbook.

CRIMES AGAINST PERIOD HOMESMany Victorian and Edwardian houses in the UK are crying out for serious care and repair work. ‘Many have suff ered from a long-term lack of maintenance or have been subjected to inappropriate repair work,’ explains chartered surveyor Ian Rock. ‘In some cases, well-intentioned repairs have actually exacerbated the problems they set out to solve.’

Inappropriate works commonly carried out on old homes include: Stripping out original doors and

replacing original sash windows with inappropriate modern PVC-U or aluminium casements Unnecessarily or incompetently

injecting chemical damp-proof courses, and replastering or rendering walls with cement-based materials rather than traditional lime, thereby trapping damp in the walls Encouraging damp, rot and

beetle infestation by blocking ventilation to fl oors and roofs, and by allowing high ground

levels (such as fl ower beds) to build up against external walls Removing chimney breasts or

load-bearing internal spine walls without providing adequate support to remaining masonry Neglecting badly eroded mortar

joints to external masonry, allowing damp to penetrate and frost damage to occur Repointing walls with cement

mortar, which prevents them ‘breathing’, and repointing in visually dominant styles Botched repairs to fl ashings on

stacks and roofs with short-life materials, such as self-adhesive tapes or mortar fi llets Failure to provide enhanced

structural support to roof structures where original lightweight slate coverings have been replaced with heavier concrete tiles Not lining old fl ues before

lighting fi res or using appliances, and failing to cap and ventilate disused fl ues Weakening fl oor joists with

excessive cutting for cable and pipe runs.

RICS members have a pivotal role in ensuring our important stock of traditional buildings do not continue to be carelessly endangered. For more, visit rics.org/top10crimes.

Buy isurv Valuation & the Red Book for just £160 (+VAT), a saving of £245 off the normal price.isurv Valuation provides continuous support and guidance on all valuation issues including methodology and calculations.

Valuation premium package

The new Red Book Standards becomes effective from January 2014 and is available to order now for £130.Visit rics.org/buyredbook or call 0247 6868 555

The language valuers understand worldwide

Order your copy of the new RICS Valuation – Professional Standards (the Red Book) now

For more information visit rics.org/redbookhub or call 0247 6868 555

rics.org/standards

RICS Professional Standards, Global and UK

RICS Valuation – Professional Standards January 2014

Incorporating the International

Valuation Standards


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Membership

RICS ChaRIty Cookbook

ConductDisciplinary panel 30 OctOber anD 11 nOvember 2013

simon edwards, londonSummary of finding: contrary to RICS Bye-Law B5.2.1(a) of RICS Bye-Laws 2009Penalty: expelled/costs

Disciplinary panel 13 nOvember 2013

Ken batty ltd (firm), prestonSummary of finding: contrary to Rules 8 and 12 of the Rules of Conduct for Firms 2007Penalty: reprimand/undertaking/costs

Disciplinary Hearing by way Of written representatiOns 13 nOvember 2013

michael Delve, manchesterSummary of finding: contrary to Bye-Law B5.2.2(d) of RICS Bye-Laws 2009Penalty: expelled/costs


richard busby mrics, yarmSummary of finding: contrary to Rules 8 & 9 of the Rules of Conduct for Members 2007Penalty: reprimand/costs


John maxwell Hill Dipsurv and maxwell Hill (firm), liskeardSummary of finding: contrary to Rules 3, 8 and 9 of the Rules of Conduct for Members 2007 and Rules 7 and 9 of the Rules of Conduct for Firms 2007Penalty: expelled/removal of firm’s registration/costs

For full details, visit rics.org/conductcases.

In support of CRaSh, the construction and property industry’s charity for homeless people, RICS has produced a charity cookbook. It features a collection of recipes from some of the industry’s best-known personalities, who have

each contributed their favourite dish. Mouth-watering tarte a l’oignon, Windsor Lamb Ragu and gooey Sludge brownies are just a taste of the delights inside, with a foreword written by the Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr.

Gillian Charlesworth, Director of Regulatory and Corporate affairs at RICS, commented: ‘this is a unique project that I’ve been proud to lead because, during a career diversion in the 1990s, I trained to be a chef. as such, I have a great

love of good food and find it life- and soul-enhancing, both literally and metaphorically.

‘the recipes and personal stories in the book show that many leading figures in our industry share this love. Journalists, CEos and other keen amateur chefs have all come together to contribute their favourite recipes to create a wonderful book for a great cause.’

all proceeds will be donated to CRaSh. to purchase the book, visit rics.org/cookbook.

workPlace confidentialityQ: What practical steps can I take in order to preserve confidentiality in my workplace? A: Maintaining confidentiality is not only important to protect your employees’ personal details and your business’s reputation, it also prevents others from using information to potentially harm, discredit or unfairly compete with your business. as well as making sure that a non-disclosure agreement is signed before any confidential information is shared, there are also a number of additional measures you can take to establish and maintain confidentiality within your business: Restrict access to confidential

information, and make sure that it’s only distributed on a need-to-know basis. Clearly mark documents as ‘confidential’ – but only if they really are, as using the term indiscriminately can devalue your protection. Make sure that all employee contracts

contain confidentiality provisions that

are both clear and appropriate. Give employees practical guidance

about keeping information confidential. For example, advise them against discussing company business when they’re out and about in public places. train employees about It issues, such

as the metadata contained in tracked documents (that is, documents with tracked changes or in revision mode). Remind all departing employees

and consultants of their obligations of confidentiality. also, ask them to confirm in writing that they have returned all company property, and then check that they have done so as far as possible. audit your security procedures

frequently to ensure that they are still adequate and up to date.

For more legal advice (provided by Riverview Law), and factsheets about confidentiality and other topics such as data protection and non-disclosure agreements, visit rics.org/smelegal.

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Advertorial//

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Advertorial //

Benefitsrics.org/benefitsplus

Recent government figures show that the number of patients awaiting NHS treatment is at the highest level for five years. This makes Private Medical Insurance (PMI) – whether it’s a corporate scheme or individual cover – more valuable than ever. With PMI, you don’t have to worry about waiting lists; diagnostic tests and treatment can be undertaken without delay; and you’re assured prompt private treatment wherever and whenever you choose.

Corporate benefitsCorporate heathcare schemes serve many purposes. Happy, healthy people make for successful and productive teams, and PMI can also reduce the cost of sickness absenteeism and get employees back to work more quickly. What’s more, PMI can act as a useful incentive to recruit and retain staff.

In corporate schemes, generous group discounts are available that only require a minimum of two or three employees, and the wide range of options available allow employers to offer a tailored healthcare scheme that’s suited to them. For example, we recently designed a bespoke healthcare benefit scheme for an employer who wanted to avoid the costs often associated with a PMI plan. The wide-ranging benefits include: Access to private consultations

and diagnostic tests, including scans Reimbursement of both dental

and optical expenses Access to therapies, including

chiropody, physiotherapy, acupuncture, sports massage, Reiki therapy and Indian head massage Face-to-face counselling services

and telephone advice lines.

Unlike a traditional PMI plan, pre-existing medical conditions are covered, and therapies don’t require a GP referral. This was all arranged for just £1.10 per employee per week, and premiums will be unaffected by claims performance going forward.

Jobson JamesWe’re delighted to be RICS’ preferred supplier for healthcare and wellbeing benefits. As independent specialists in delivering healthcare solutions, we have access to all leading healthcare insurers, enabling us to provide highly competitive rates and policy wordings not universally available within the marketplace. In addition to annual contracts, we also provide a range of services that can be utilised on an ad hoc basis – for example, occupational health services, where we support employers who are experiencing difficulties with employee absence.

Our first priority is to gain a thorough understanding of your requirements. Then we undertake a comprehensive market review, and design a healthcare solution that is appropriate for you, being transparent about the levels of cover available and the associated costs. Once we’re working with you, we provide ongoing help and advice, and will support you in the event of a claim. Whether it’s for your business, or for you and your family, we like to think that we have the insurance solution.

For advice on your healthcare needs, contact Karen Long on 0121 452 8765 or email [email protected]. Jobson James has offices in London, Birmingham and Leominster. jobson-james.co.uk

Health is wealth

To view all the latest offers, new partners and monthly and seasonal promotions, visit rics.org/benefitsplus.

AS GOOD AS OUR WORD


01.11 // MODUS 0902.14 // MODUS 49

presented by Defra. The conference will also include legal updates and the launch of the new RICS paper on woodland taxation.£100 + VATrics.org/southeastrural

RICS and APM Project Leadership Conference 25 February, London A look at the key aspects of leadership to reduce costs and boost UK project efficiencies. The opening keynote session will be given by chief government construction adviser Peter Hansford.£195 + VATrics.org/leadership conference

RICS North East CPD Day25 February, NewcastleTailor your programme with a choice of 18 breakout sessions, including urban redevelopment, new modern methods of construction, and tax and accounting requirements for commercial property.£135 + VAT – full day£80 + VAT – half dayrics.org/northeastcpd

RICS International Valuation Conference6 March, LondonBringing together the global valuation profession for a comprehensive one-day programme

that explores trends, standards, challenges and opportunities in the valuation sector.£225 + VATrics.org/valuationconference

RICS East Midlands CPD Day13 March, LoughboroughA choice of 18 breakout sessions, including an update on High Speed 2 and its impact on land values; overcoming the challenges of affordable housing; and updates on best practice in valuation, building regulations and dilapidations.£135 + VAT – full day£80 + VAT – half dayrics.org/eastmidlandscpd

RICS Building Surveying Conference2 April, LondonThis annual one-day conference focuses on the challenges, requirements and issues facing practitioners, with technical break-out sessions allowing you to tailor your day.£220 + VAT (£195 + VAT if booked before 14 February) rics.org/bsconference

RICS Awards Regional CeremoniesApril to May, various locationsJoin the celebrations and discover the successful projects in the regional categories, plus the overall project of the year in each region.From £45 + VAT (for lunchtime ceremonies)From £70 + VAT (for evening ceremonies)rics.org/awards

WalesRICS North Wales CPD Day6 March, ConwyTailor your programme with a choice of 18 breakout sessions, including an essential update on building regulations, and a practical application of RICS professional and ethical standards in today’s market. £135 + VAT – full day£80 + VAT – half dayrics.org/northwalescpd

NortherN IrelaNdRICS Northern Ireland CPD Day20 March, BelfastGain six hours’ formal CPD with essential updates on a range of topics, including a government review of facilitating and funding development growth, updates on CDM regulations and contract law, plus updates on planning policy frameworks, land tenure and

development sites. £135 + VAT – full day£80 + VAT – half dayrics.org/nicpd

europeMIPIM11-14 March, CannesThis leading real estate event for professionals brings together the most influential players from all international sectors and offers unrivalled access to a great number of global development projects and sources of capital.rics.org/mipim

Urban Renewal Week19-26 March, LisbonHosted by the historic Terreiro do Paço in Lisbon, this event will celebrate the urban renewal movement in Portuguese cities. Exhibitions, awards, conferences and art installations are among the many activities included. semanadarea bilitacao.com

EventsscotlaNdRICS Scotland CPD Day27 February, PerthGain six hours’ formal CPD in one day. Break-out sessions include updates on building regulations, the Home Report, renewable energy policy and town centre regeneration.£135 + VAT – full day£80 + VAT – half dayrics.org/scotlandcpd

RICS Aberdeen and North East Scotland Annual Dinner28 March, AberdeenSponsored by McLeod + Aitken, and celebrating its 40th anniversary, the evening promises to be a fantastic opportunity to reflect on last year’s achievements and catch up with friends and contacts within the North East. £64 + VAT (individual ticket); £600 + VAT (table of 10); £720 + VAT (table of 12)rics.org/aberdeendinner

RICS InfRaStRuCtuRE ConfEREnCE 3 april, crowne plaza, st James, london

Examining the whole life cycle of infrastructure projects, this event

provides greater insight into the core disciplines necessary for achieving success. Topics include: planning and forecasting; the role of BIM; cost management; and procurement and supply chain engagement. £245 + VAT (£220 + VAT if booked before 10 February)rics.org/infrastructure conference

eNglaNdRICS Neighbourhood Disputes SeminarsFebruary to March, various locationsAn examination of the current issues around boundary management, dispute legalities and surveyors acting as expert witnesses. Plus, a look at recent guidance on this dispute-ridden area to help you avoid risk, maintain standards and execute with due diligence.£150 + VATrics.org/neighbourhood disputes

RICS BIM Conference12 February, LondonAs we move beyond the Level 2 BIM requirements to a fully collaborative and integrated model, how can you ensure your business is ready? The conference will also address the benefits of BIM at different stages of a project’s life cycle, return on investment scenarios and risk management. £220 + VAT rics.org/bimconference

RICS South East Rural Update 24 February, KentUpdates for rural practitioners involved with CAP reform, payment schemes and agribusiness,

Book RICS EVENtS oNLINE rics.org/conferences For enquiries, call +44 (0)20 7695 1600

02.14 // MODUS 49


RICS news //

EastErnKenneth Mason FRICS1956-2013, HarlowPeter ronald smith FRICS1927-2013, Knebworth

LondonGuy Bessant MRICS1968-2013, LondonJohn richard Cosgrove FRICS1947-2013, Gerrards CrossJeremy William Loudan AssocRICS1952-2013, Londonandrew Quinney MRICS1961-2013, London Franklin rice FRICS1920-2011, London andrew Wittrick MRICS1954-2013, London

north WEstJames holden MRICS1932-2013, Bolton James shaw FRICS1942-2013, Preston Joseph thornley FRICS1929-2013, Bolton

north EastCyril Fenton FRICS1936-2013, Darlington nick Lever MRICS1956-2013, Northumberland

south EastGraham arnell FRICS1951-2013, Milton KeynesPeter ash FRICS1929-2013, Eastbourneanthony Barnes FRICS1953-2013, Enfield

Brian Barrett MRICS1963-2013, Kingston upon Thamesdesiree Bingandadi MRICS1980-2013, LondonPeter Francis Gardner FRICS1933-2013, Godalming Victor Gough FRICS1932-2013, West SussexGuy J G Luck FRICS1944-2013, MaidenheadWilliam Perry FRICS1925-2011, HampshireBernard Portch FRICS1925-2013, Horley anthony Graham Walker MRICS1946-2013, Surrey Leonard West FRICS1925-2013, BeaconsfieldBryan Yendole FRICS1936-2013, Guildford

Obituariessouth WEstalfred George axford MRICS1922-2013, Bristol hugh hardy Gillingham FRICS1910-2013, St Austellanthony William Mothersdale MRICS1943-2013, Minehead richard John Gilbert taylor FRICS1921-2013, Wellington

WEst MidLandsJ a Branton MRICS1939-2013, Evesham hester turner MRICS1963-2013, Birmingham

East MidLandsanthony Craske FRICS1929-2013, NottinghamMichael donnor FRICS1946-2012, Oakham

Christopher tindall FRICS1945-2013, Peterborough

YorKshirE & huMBErdavid sutton MRICS1962-2013, BradfordChristopher John thompson MRICS1954-2013, Wakefield

sCotLandLord the rt hon Earl of Kinnoull FRICS1935-2013, EdinburghLea Wilson FRICS1939-2013, Dumfries

irELandWilliam deasy APC Graduate1980-2013, Co Cork

EuroPEEdward armitage FRICS1947-2013, Boudy De Beauregard

Please email obituary notifications to riCs, including membership number if known, to [email protected] or call +44 (0)870 333 1600. If you are facing hardship following the loss of a family member, or if you are considering leaving a legacy, please contact LionHeart, the charity for RICS members and their families. Call +44 (0)24 7646 6696, email [email protected] or visit lionheart.org.uk.

MEnEaChristopher Lawrence FRICS1948-2013, South Africa

STRATEGIC FM DRIvES uP PROFITS

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The new global RICS facilities management (FM) research report, Raising the bar: city roundtables report (phase II), was launched in Washington DC on 29 January. The report, which builds on the findings of the 2012 report, shows how organisations can boost efficiency and productivity, and also prepare for the future, by introducing a strategic facilities management discipline.

According to the new research, FM professionals worldwide are facing similar challenges in establishing their position as an essential business function. In particular, the lack of strategic propositions available around leadership, education and business

structures has stagnated sector growth and discouraged new talent. Furthermore, the current emphasis on cost cutting, and a lack of long-term investment strategies to develop propositions, fails to consider future changes in workplace design, culture and strategy.

The report presents ‘a dozen challenges’, identified by FM professionals across six continents, to which the profession has responded with ‘a dozen recommendations’. Notably, the roundtable participants stated that FM leaders need to work with business leadership groups to raise the profile of FM and create an ‘FM brand’ to clarify the role of the profession and to define standards.

‘Practitioners and businesses are telling us that the time has come for FM to embrace a strategic approach,’ says report author Paul Carder, managing director of the Occupiers Journal. ‘For instance, today the average head of facilities spends more than 50% of his or her time on day-to-day issues and less than 21% of their time on strategy and planning. This needs to change in order for FM to fully realise its potential.’ The report concludes that it’s vital to incorporate effective and strategic FM planning into the highest-level business planning in order to increase efficiency and drive up profits. rics.org/raisingthebar


02.14 // MODUS 51

RecruitmentFor recruitment advertising please contact: Angus Sharpe +44 (0)20 7871 2667 [email protected]

The March issue will be published Monday 10 March

Recruitment copy deadline Tuesday 4 February

Introducing Professionals to the Construction and Property Industry

www.carriera.co.uk020 8543 6131

STOP AND READ!RESIDENTIAL VALUATION SURVEYORSFor more than 19 years, MLA has successfully recruited for independent private practices, larger national survey firms, building societies, financial institutions and surveying subsidiaries of residential property companies.

Full-time, part-time, permanent and zero-hours positions are currently available in: all areas of London, M25 and the Home Counties, Bristol, Berks, Bucks, Cambs, Cheshire, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, E Mids, Essex, Hants, Kent, Manchester, Merseyside, Norfolk, Suffolk, Surrey, Sussex, Teesside, W Mids, Warks, S Wales, Scotland. Plus, Area Director role in S/SE London.

Existing or past experience of undertaking mortgage valuations and Homebuyer reports is preferable. There are also opportunities for other MRICS who have sound knowledge of building pathology and defect analysis.

Competitive remuneration packages reflect the current high demand for surveyors.

To discuss your immediate objectives or register for future requirements, please call:

Jeff Johnson on 07940 594093 or email your CV in confidence to: [email protected] www.mlarecruit.com

Residential Valuation SurveyorsDo you want to work for a private firm with a corporate attitude and national coverage - a firm that is quality driven.

A firm that has a strong tradition of VALUING its surveyors as INDIVIDUALS.

Valunation is growing rapidly and we’re looking to further expand and strengthen our national team of residential valuation surveyors.

This is your opportunity to make a positive change and join a leading name in the residential surveying marketplace where we pride ourselves on the emphasis we give to the quality, rather than the quantity, of what we deliver.

We have immediate vacancies for experienced, highly motivated individuals who are RICS qualified and a registered valuer. We are happy to consider part-time or flexible working.

If you are interested in joining us we would be delighted to hear from you.

Please email your CV, including your RICS membership number, directly to [email protected] or call Paul Lancaster on 07974-090113 or David Atter on 07973-543010 for a confidential chat.

89,820 average net circulation 1 July 2012 – 30 June 2013


At e.surv Chartered Surveyors we understand that it takes all kinds of people to make a successful business, and our team is as diverse as our customer base. One thing is consistent, and that is our approach to providing customers with outstanding levels of service.

e.surv Chartered Surveyors is the UK’s largest distributor of valuation instructions. Our business is growing, and as it does we need to employ high calibre, passionate people to grow with us. We are currently recruiting for M/FRICS/Assoc RICS qualified Valuers and Chartered Building Surveyors to work across both our private and lender client-base.

We are looking for additional full and part time professional people throughout the UK.

When you join e.surv you’re guaranteed:

Excellent rewards including a first class salary, pension and holiday entitlement

Help and advice to further your own continuous professional development

A supportive working environment with open and honest communication

We’d love to hear from youSend your CV and covering letter [email protected] call us on 01279 658920National Operations Centre, Lahnstein House, Gold Street, Kettering, NN16 8AP

Join the UK’s largest distributor of survey and valuation servicesM/FRICS/Assoc RICS qualified Valuers & Chartered Building Surveyors

Part of the LSL Property Services plc Group

Visit www.esurv.co.uk to find out more about us

•

•

•

Send your CV and covering letter [email protected] call us on 0191 233 4002

e.surv Chartered Surveyors is the UK’s largest distributor of valuation instructions. Our business is growing, and as it does we need to employ high calibre, passionate people to grow with us. We are currently recruiting for M/FRICS/Assoc RICS qualified Valuers and Chartered Building Surveyors to work across both our private and lender client-base.

We are looking for additional full and part time professional people throughout the UK. Current vacancies include roles in London, Solent, Berkshire and Cornwall

To view more jobs online visit ricsrecruit.com

52 r ics.org

MODUS_Feb14_P52-61_Recruitment.indd 52 14/01/2014 11:43

02.14 // MODUS 53

Recruitment //

The arT of negoTiaTion By Linda Whitney

Looking for a new job? Hone your negotiating skills, and you may be able to improve your remuneration package. ‘The construction industry has become a candidates’ market, especially in London,’ explains Kevin Rose, a recruitment consultant specialising in surveying vacancies at Conrad Consulting. ‘As a result, some candidates have been negotiating salaries up, and counter-offers [where your current employer offers to match or top the salary of your new job] are now common.’ Rose cites the case of one chartered building surveyor who suggested that his existing employer might make him a counter-offer, and as a result was offered an extra £5,000 by the new employer. Another chartered surveyor negotiated a cash allowance in lieu of a company car, which also added an extra £5,000 to their remuneration package. Owen Goodhead, managing director of the construction, property and engineering arm of Randstad, agrees: ‘Competition for quality candidates, especially quantity surveyors, means that counter-offers of £5,000 are quite common,’ he says. ‘We’ve even seen £13,000 added.’

But not everyone feels comfortable negotiating over pay – especially given that many candidates have been happy to take offers without quibbling in recent years. Fortunately, however, most recruitment consultants will negotiate on your behalf, says Christopher Mackenzie, director of UK at Cobalt Recruitment: ‘Speak to your consultant at the start of the recruitment process to ensure your salary expectations are realistic. If you’re told from the outset what the salary will be, don’t necessarily assume that you can negotiate upwards if an offer is made.’

Furthermore, your chances may depend on your specialism. According to Mackenzie, experienced candidates for valuations, analyst and property management roles could realistically expect a salary uplift, whereas development surveyors, who historically have been used to larger pay increases, may be disappointed as many professionals are now competing to enter this area.

As for employers, Adam Landau, director of commercial property advisers DeVono in London, says: ‘We set a salary range for each role, so if someone ticks all the boxes and asks for the top end of the range I’d pay it, but so far we’ve never gone above it. However, in a shortage, I can understand employers negotiating upwards.’

Take The pLungeDoing the negotiation yourself takes a cool head. ‘Check your real value before negotiating,’ advises Simon Horton, specialist trainer and author of Negotiation Mastery. Then, only start negotiating once you’ve actually been offered the position: ‘Get in first with a high figure, otherwise they will start low and it will be hard to negotiate upwards,’ Horton recommends. Also let them know if you’re talking to other companies, or if you’re considering staying with your current employer who may make a counter-offer, as it could help your case.

Furthermore, don’t restrict negotiations to just the basic salary; consider the whole package, and if you don’t need some of the benefits ask for money in lieu. ‘Don’t be sneaky or manipulative, just honest and comfortable,’ says Horton. ‘And have a plan B so that you’re always free to walk away.’

Careers advice

MRICS SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR Leeds (ref: BCP14/LF26) £38,000-£43,000 plus package A Professional Quantity Surveyor (PQS) with experience in the healthcare sector (ideally encompassing NHS projects and Procure 21) is urgently required by the Leeds office of this successful multidisciplinary consultancy. Superb development and progression potential for the right high-calibre individual. SENIOR / PROJECT MANAGER Manchester or Leeds (ref: BCP14/LF17) £35,000-£50,000 A respected Project Management consultancy requires a high-calibre project manager with consultancy/in-house client- side experience to assist in the delivery of high-quality project management to various blue- chip clients. Personality is key to this brief: we’ve been asked to source the best individuals with real ‘impact ability’. Outstanding career development opportunities are available for the right individual. ESTIMATOR/QUANTITY SURVEYOR Surrey (ref: BCP14/LF7) £40,000-£45,000 This specialist construction contractor with an exceptional blue-chip client base, requires an Estimator/Quantity Surveyor to take work from tender through delivery stages. Real opportunities exist for the right individual to take full accountability for build programmes for household- name end-users. RURAL SURVEYOR North East or North Yorkshire (ref: BCP14/LF16) £30,000-£35,000 A qualified Rural Surveyor is required to deliver the full rural estates management role to a range of agricultural clients in the region.

DELIVERY PROJECT MANAGER North London (ref: BCP14/LF31) Up to £45,000 plus bonusRequired within an independent Multi-Disciplinary practice. The role will involve taking full accountability for the delivery of projects from tender stage to handover as a live trading environment. The appointed individual will be the single liaison point between Main Contractor and Blue-Chip retailer.

ACQUISITION PROJECT MANAGER: BLUE-CHIP RETAIL CLIENT 1 x North London, 1 x South London (ref: BCP14/LF32) Up to £45,000 plus bonus This role will involve working internally within a blue- chip retail client alongside the Development Surveyor to manage several schemes through acquisition at any given time. The right individual will have a QS or PM background, retail experience preferred but not essential.

SENIOR PQS QUANTITY SURVEYOR Manchester (ref: BCP14/LF21) £35,000-£40,000 Required for a fast-growing independent Manchester practice. PQS and measurement experience essential, long-term progression to Associate possible.

SENIOR QUANTITY SURVEYOR Manchester (ref: BCP14/LF25), or Birmingham (ref: BCP14/LF29) £37,000-£45,000 plus package A high-calibre Senior Quantity Surveyor with substantial PQS experience is required by the successful Manchester or Birmingham office of a renowned national multidisciplinary consultancy operating across the entire spectrum of the construction market. The company is therefore open to sector specialisation.

Benson Clarke is an independent recruitment consultancy recruiting property and construction professionals of the highest calibre into contractor, consultancy and client organisations throughout the UK.

Need help recruiting? Please contact us.

Benson Clarke Ltd is an employment agency, as defined in section 13(2) of the Employment Agencies Act 1973

0161 766 [email protected]

www.bensonclarke.com @constructionops


54 r ics.org


Greg CoyleHead of Property RecruitmentDirect: 0208 514 9116Email: [email protected]

Web: www.bbltechnical.co.uk

BBL is a leading supplier of surveyors to the residential sector, servicing the career aims of individuals and staffing needs of organisations UK wide.

We carry vacancies from corporate/national organisations, regional multi office firms and independent traditional practices.

We advise applicants from all faculties, with or without previous residential sector experience and hold detailed records on salary trends UK wide.

Our service to employer and applicant alike is completely confidential, consultative and governed by the professional standards of

the Recruitment & Employment Confederation.We are not a CV brokerage rather a consultancy in the true sense working with employers and applicants to achieve a common goal.

Key to our success in finding both surveyors the right role and employers the right applicant is our in depth knowledge of the sector encompassing all its technicalities, company cultures and individual aspirations.

Whether you are an employer recruiting staff or an employee considering (or set on) a move, call us today for impartial, no obligation advice based on our near two decade experience of your industry.

Residential Sector recruitment/opportunities

FIND

OUT ABOUT

OUR CURRENT

VACANCIES

On page

58 & 61


02.14 // MODUS 55

Recruitment //

We are seeking Residential Valuation Surveyors: Nationwide


56 r ics.org


You want to earn money, yet you want control of your life. You’re told you can’t have both. Well, now you can!

You have the qualification, you have the experience and now its time to use them to your best advantage in a way that suits what you want from life.

Who says you can’t have it all?

Forward your CV and contact details by email to:

[email protected]

We’re looking for motivated chartered surveyors, for contract/consultancy positions, who can work to the highest requirements. In return, we will reward you accordingly and respect a work-life balance.

Our clients demand the highest standards of work, so this is no soft option. But if you want to control your earnings and your life style, then let’s start talking.

It may not be all – but it’s a start!

Building Surveyors£Attractive Package Nationwide

This is the place to work to develop your skills, be valued and receive the training and support you will need to advance your own career.

Bruton Knowles is a leading firm of property consultants with a national presence delivering services with the highest level of professionalism and integrity through thirteen regional offices. The business is thriving and rapidly expanding, resulting in opportunities within our busy Building Surveying teams nationwide.

Our business is all about people. We take the time to share experiences and best practice through our Building Consultancy Faculty. Training support and skill development is provided at all levels of competency. The skill faculty is headed by a partner who has responsibility for ensuring faculty members are fully briefed on latest working practices and case law.

Our people make Bruton Knowles the success it is. That's why every member of our team is passionate, committed and exceptionally good at what they do. If you have the necessary skills, experience and drive to make a real difference to ourbusiness then contact Angus Taylor, Building Consultancy Faculty Head, for an informal discussion on 07889 180550 or email [email protected]

More job opportunities available online brutonknowles.co.uk/workwithus

Bruton Knowles is an Equal Opportunity Employer. No agencies.


02.14 // MODUS 57

Recruitment //

What we can offer you

First class employment package including: • substantial salary + bonuses + car/allowance• full technical and administration back-up• excellent CPD + career prospects

We now have opportunities nationwide and are especially keen to recruit Surveyors covering these postcodes: AB, B, BD, BS, CA, CM, CR, CV, DT, E, G, GU, HA, HX, IP, LA, LS, LU, M, N, NR, NW, OX, PO, PL, RG, RH, SA, SE, SO, SS, SW, TW, W, YO

About you

We are seeking MRICS/FRICS/AssocRICS and trainee Surveyors, ideally with recent experience of carrying out Mortgage Valuations, Homebuyer Reports and Building Surveys. We will consider applications from those working outside the Residential sector but with the desire and commitment to make a career change. You will need a sound understanding of residential building pathology and defect analysis.

We are also extending our network of Consultant and Zero Hours employed contractors.

About Us

Our track record for first class service is recognised by all our clients and has helped secure many new major Lender contracts. We are now recruiting more Residential Surveyors throughout the country to service this work and the significant Private client work available to us.

To register interest or for more information, please contact Tim Jones:

or scan the QR code

by email [email protected]

or phone 0208 336 1614

or scan the QR code

visit our websiteconnellsgroup.co.uk

or scan the QR code

The UK’s premier Chartered Surveying and Valuation Panel

Management company

Residential Surveyors

So if you share our passion for delivering quality service and believe you have the right skills, then we want to hear from you.


58 r ics.org


Residential Surveyors – Time for a change?Feeling undervalued? Pay review not quite what you’d hoped? Earnings and/or recognition not reflective of the effort and hours worked in 2013?If so, do you now seek: - An improvement in earnings, be that basic salary or a bonus scheme that offers greater incentives - A reduction in hours / a move to part time or zero hours working - A reduction in the volume of work you are expected to handle (i.e. number crunching) - An improvement in the general quality of your instructions or fee levels

We can help!Our diverse national client base urgently seeks: - RESIDENTIAL SURVEYORS ALREADY WORKING IN THE SECTOR - RESIDENTIAL SURVEYORS WHO LEFT THE SECTOR POST 2008 BUT WOULD LIKE TO RETURN

WITH REFERESHER TRAINING - SEMI RETIRED SURVEYORS (with residential experience) KEEN TO KEEP ACTIVE ON A PART

TIME/FLEXIBLE BASIS - FREELANCE SURVEYORS KEEN TO SECURE ADDITIONAL FEE SHARING INSTRUCTIONS - MRICS QUALIFIED SURVEYORS WITH RELEVANT (THOUGH PERHAPS NOT DIRECT) INSPECTION

OR VALUATION EXPERIENCE

Our vacancies change daily, but in general (and currently) we have urgent needs in the following: All London Postcodes (N,NW, W, SW, SE & E), Essex (SS, CM, RM, CO, IG & E), Hertfordshire (AL, SG, WD, EN), Bedfordshire/Luton (LU, MK), M4 Corridor Generally (SL, RG, OX, SN), East & West Sussex (BN, TN, RH), Dorset (DT, BH), Hampshire (SO, PO), Surrey (CR, BR, KT, SM, GU), Kent (ME, TN, CT, BR, DA), Plymouth/South East Cornwall (PL, TR), East & West Midlands, Gloucestershire (GL), Bristol (BS), Cardiff/South Newport (CF, NP), Chichester, Basingstoke

Area/patch not mentioned? We welcome confidential enquiries/speculative applications from Surveyors across Yorkshire, Tyne & Wear, Lancashire and Cheshire, as well as the West Country and East of England.

REMUNERATION Subject to location, experience and fee income for your given patch, permanently employed applicants can expect basic salaries ranging from £35-60k plus bonuses (as either a percentage share of fee income after threshold or based on “points” amassed), a car/allowance and benefits. Zero hours and Freelance Surveyors can expect fee sharing arrangements from 30-60% depending on organisation, location and terms.

If you would like to discuss or express your interest in one of our immediate needs or indeed register your details for

future requirements please call or write direct in absolute confidence:

Greg CoyleHead of Property RecruitmentDirect: 0208 514 9116Email: [email protected]: www.bbltechnical.co.uk

FOR OPPORTUNITIES

WITHIN INDEPENDENT

PRACTICESSEE PAGE 61


02.14 // MODUS 59

Recruitment //

RESIDENTIAL SURVEY & VALUATIONUP TO £45,000 + Benefits BRISTOL & BATH

Beach Baker is instructed by a highly established and respected consultancy to recruit a home-based RICS surveyor in Bristol and Bath. Candidates will be a residential survey specialist with a minimum of 2 years qualified experience and experience of completing home buyers reports to RICS standards.

RSB/882542 [email protected]

ASSOCIATE RURAL SURVEYOR £30-40,000 + Benefits GLOUCESTERSHIRE/OXFORDSHIRE

A top flight consultancy is looking to recruit a Senior/Associate Surveyor. Day to day you’ll be doing a mix of management and professional work for private and institutional clients. Exciting workload and portfolio of estates with superb career progression and a chance to join a market leader.

FHB/882750 [email protected]

SENIOR/ASSOCIATE BUILDING SURVEYOR £35-£50,000 + Benefits BRISTOL/BIRMINGHAM

The successful candidate will be working with key clients in the public and commercial sectors. Your workload will be interesting and will consist of maintenance, repair, refurbishment and professional surveys. You’ll be expected to be involved with business generation and have management responsibility.

MC/882679 [email protected]

COMMERCIAL VALUATIONS - SENIOR SURVEYORAbove market salary + Benefits LONDON

A leading multi-disciplinary consultancy seeks an experienced Valuations Surveyor to carry out a combination of portfolio and loan security valuations for diverse and interesting range of properties for leading clients, including fund management houses, property trusts and banks with great variety and interest.

WLC/882396 [email protected]

SENIOR SURVEYOR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT £25-35,000 + Benefits LEEDS/MANCHESTER

Working with landlord and corporate clients across a variety of property sectors but mainly concentrating on office and industrial properties. Successful candidates will preferably have experience of investment management, estate management or corporate real estate at a similar consultancy.

SN/882356 [email protected]

SURVEYOR/SENIOR SURVEYOR£25-35,000 + Benefits LEEDS/MANCHESTER

The primary role will be to provide valuation advice to clients. Ideal candidates will have local market experience although candidates looking to relocate are encouraged to apply. You will be preparing red book valuations on a mixed portfolio, often with a high level of complexity.

JP/887654 [email protected]

“THE PROPERTY RECRUITMENT SPECIALISTS”

BRISTOL T: 0117 985 6909 LEEDS T: 0113 367 1280 LONDON T: 0207 025 8123

Log onto www.beachbaker.co.uk for all the latest jobs and to sign up for job alerts.

DO WHAT YOU DO BEST. AND BUILD A GREAT FUTURE.

We’re looking for talented Valuation Surveyors to be part of the team at Colleys.Based in London, Inner M25 & South Coast£35,360 - £54,840At Lloyds Banking Group, our vision is to be the best bank for our customers. It is our role to help businesses and individuals thrive, while making a positive contribution to the communities in which we operate so we can help Britain prosper. As part of the Group, Colleys offers a unique opportunity to do what you do best and build a great future.

One of the largest valuation and surveying businesses of its kind in the UK, Colleys continues to grow. And our enthusiastic people develop along with us. Colleys benefits from an impressive portfolio of lenders, registered social landlords and housing associations that call on us daily. Which means you’ll benefit from guaranteed business. You’ll use standardised paperwork on every project and you’ll receive the support of a fantastic back office team. So you won’t have to invest time seeking new work or carrying out heavily administrative tasks. You can get on with building great relationships and helping our customers realise their ambitions as home owners.

As part of Lloyds Banking Group, at Colleys you’ll receive all the benefits of one of the largest financial services employers in the world. You’ll also have our full support, training and opportunities for both personal and professional development.

To find out more and apply please visit www.lloydsbankinggroup-careers.com and enter ‘Valuation Surveyor’ into the keyword search.


60 r ics.org


► Are you fed up of being treated like a number?

► Do you wish your technology worked for you?

► Are your bookings controlled by people who don’t care about your day?

We are recruiting Residential Surveyors andConsultant Surveyors with opportunities in the following postcodes: SE, E, TW, KT, CR, SM, DA and BR.

As well as our competitive employee benefitsand development package, we are rapidlybecoming the employer of choice forsurveyors promoting the Shepherd philosophyof a ‘great place to work’ through ourdedicated Culture and Wellbeing programme.

Always at the forefront of innovative productdesign, we have implemented a bespoke iPadsolution in-house, which enables our surveyorsto complete valuations on site, gatheringcomparable property details on the spot andsign off to the lender ‘on the doorstep’, makingour process faster, more efficient and trulycompetitive.

For further information, please email Liz Brough,HR Manager at [email protected]

Or send your CVFAO Liz Brough, HR Manager,Shepherd Chartered Surveyors3-4 Regan Way, Chetwynd Business ParkChilwell, NG9 6RZ


02.14 // MODUS 61

Recruitment //

Residential surveying opportunities – non-corporate and/or seniorWhether you seek a step up, route out of corporate life or simply a more traditional service focused role in independent practice, we fully understand that “one size doesn’t fit all” and as such carry a wide range of vacancies for local, regional and independent firms.

If you would like to discuss or express your interest in one of our immediate needs or indeed

register your details for future requirements please call or write direct in absolute confidence:

Greg CoyleHead of Property RecruitmentDirect: 0208 514 9116Email: [email protected]: www.bbltechnical.co.uk

Area Director – newly created region – South of Thames to M25 - £90k package. Our client is one of the large corporate firms acting as panel managers and surveyors for top tier lenders and financial institutions nationally, and undertaking the full range of reports for top fees. The region encompasses SE postcodes to the M25 and the successful candidate will have responsibility for the management of staff, Fee earning (2 to 3 days per week), Client Liaison, Compliance / Complaint / Query handling and Reporting to senior management on performance and profitability. Remuneration is excellent with a total package value ITRO £90k.

Residential Surveyors and Trainee Residential Surveyors – Slough, NW London, Cheltenham, Gloucester, Winchester Our client is an independent, well established and growing firm of chartered surveyors servicing the residential sector in relation to Mortgage Valuations, Homebuyers Reports and Building Surveys. Unlike many of their corporate competitors, they are prepared and able to train enthusiastic chartered surveyors from most backgrounds so previous residential surveying experience is NOT ESSENTIAL. Remuneration to start will include a basic salary of £40k, a generous mileage allowance and uncapped bonuses calculated as a percentage of fee income.

Freelance and Permanent Residential Surveyors – Essex (CM, RM and CO) Our client is the well established surveying arm of an equally established regional estate agency chain. They seek Residential Surveyors throughout their areas of coverage and offer extremely flexible working terms. Their workload is predominantly private instruction, partly through in house

referral and partly through repeat local business. Their private work is lucrative with very high average fees across the reporting spectrum (HBR’s, MV’s and BS’s). Our client is keen to hear from residential surveyors keen on part time, full time and zero hours arrangements.

Residential Surveyor – Chelmsford – VERY low volume high quality work, outstanding fees and incentives. Our client is an independent and long established traditional practice of surveyors and valuers acting almost entirely on private instructions and repeat business locally, covering the areas of Chelmsford and southern Essex with some work in East London. They require a full time employed Chartered Surveyor to undertake 6-8 surveys per week, mostly Homebuyers Reports with some Building Surveys and no mortgage valuations. Basic salary c£40,000 + 20% of all fees after £120k threshold, car allowance, and private healthcare.

Chartered Building Surveyor - SW London – Project and Professional duties – high £40’s basic plus incentives and package Our client is a long established and highly regarded prime London market property management and surveying firm, offering the full range of property services across prestigious London postcodes. They require a Chartered Building Surveyor for a traditional Project and Professional role overseeing major works and building surveys to residential properties. The successful surveyor will work out of a vibrant, well located SW London office with excellent long term career prospects and ongoing support and training. FOR

OPPORTUNITIES

WITHIN CORPORATE

FIRMS

SEE PAGE 58


62 rics.org

Illustration by Ian Dutnall

SPACED OUTHOW MUCH FLOOR SPACE CAN YOU GET FOR £100,000?

Measure //

WESTMINSTER13m2

Ave. property size 71m2

ST ALBANS31m2


BATH42m2


EDINBURGH47m2


CARDIFF66m2


DURHAM90m2


SWANSEA94m2


HULL97m2


LONDONDERRY 122m2 Ave. property size 131m2 Source: Halifax House Price Per Square Metre Survey

MOST EXPENSIVE CITIES(buying price, US$ per m2)

1 Monaco 53,0262 London 32,7453 HK Island 20,6604 Singapore 17,709 5 Geneva 17,0266 Moscow 16,5097 New York 15,2848 Paris 15,1619 Mumbai 11,60410 Tokyo 11,466

Source: globalpropertyguide.com

MODUS_Feb14_P62_Measurev2.indd 62 14/01/2014 12:39

Find out morewww.cem.ac.ukemail [email protected] call 0800 019 9697

“ What I have learnt during my studies with CEM will now help to develop my professional qualifi cations, and I trust this will reinforce my commitment to become a respected member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS). Overall, CEM is a fantastic institution to develop your career and as such I would recommend it with the highest of praise.”

Shyam Visavadia, PGDip SurveyingProject Manager, EC Harris (An Arcadis Company)

Do you, or someone you know, wish to progress to Chartered status?The College of Estate Management (CEM) is the leading provider of supported online learning for real estate and construction professionals.

Whatever stage of your career, we can help youprogress to the next levelFrom a Foundation Degree, to Master level conversion courses for graduates of any discipline who wish to become Chartered Surveyors, we’ve got it covered.

Our supported online learning gives you the fl exibility to fi t study around your life. Using our Virtual Learning Environment you’ll have everything you need (at your fi ngertips) to gain a respected qualifi cation.

Our courses are accredited by:(accreditation in progress at M level)

24839-ModusFullPage-011213.indd 1 03/12/2013 15:48MODUS_Feb14_P63_CEM.indd 2 13/01/2014 11:38

Terms and conditions apply, for full terms and conditions see www.hiscox.co.uk/rics Hiscox Underwriting Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors is an Appointed Representative of Hiscox Underwriting Ltd which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. For UK residents only. 12411 10/13

Preferred Partner

Some thingS defy

deScription.You buy something because you like it, we understand that. But we don’t ask you to list it if it’s under £15,000. And should you make a claim, we trust that you own what you say you own. Which is fortunate if it’s a, well, let’s just call it a ‘lamp’.

RICS members save 12.5% on home insurance for the life of the policy

hiscox.co.uk/rics 0845 365 1734AS GOOD AS OUR WORD

12411 - UK - RICS surveyor advert.indd 1 25/10/2013 12:41MODUS_Feb14_P64_Hiscox.indd 2 13/01/2014 11:32

Documents

RICS Modus - Global edition, February 2014