Scope

This project details the successful refurbishment of void properties within the ownership of the Haringey Community Benefit Society (HCBS) by DCK. The project, commissioned by Haringey Council, aimed to make these properties readily available for letting by addressing repairs to the highest of standards.

The HCBS is a social housing organisation with a close relationship to Haringey Council. They share the mission of providing high-quality, affordable housing to residents. Haringey Council, as the local authority, plays a strategic role in overseeing housing stock and ensuring its suitability for tenants.

Challenges

Scattered Properties: The works encompassed multiple properties spread across the borough, requiring logistical coordination

Asbestos Removal: T The removal of asbestos posed a necessary but time-sensitive step due to the two-week notification period

Squatter Presence: T Unauthorised occupants in some properties presented a hurdle that needed resolution to avoid project delays

Meter Issues: T A review of gas and electric meters revealed problems that DCK needed to address to avoid any delays.

Solutions

Collaborative Planning: T We worked closely with Haringey Council to establish a clear project plan, including a list of properties, scope of works per property, and agreed timeframes ranging from 2-4 weeks

Proactive Management: T DCK proactively managed asbestos removal, ensuring compliance with regulations and maintaining the project schedule. We also collaborated with Haringey to resolve the presence of squatters within the designated timeframes

Flexibility and Value Engineering: T We implemented improvements to the project specifications, including upgrading boilers to a more efficient model and enhancing kitchen fixtures with coloured cabinets and better taps

Resource Management: T DCK prioritised on-time completion by deploying a team of over 20 operatives to ensure each property was ready for occupancy by the designated move-in dates.

Outcome

Successful Refurbishment: T All properties were successfully refurbished within the agreed timeframes, meeting the high standards set by Haringey Council. The project resulted in a significant improvement to the Council’s housing stock

Client Satisfaction: T Haringey Council expressed high satisfaction with DCK’s performance, highlighting our proactive approach, flexibility, and commitment to meeting deadlines. This paves the way for continued collaboration on future projects.

This project exemplifies DCK’s ability to deliver complex works on time and within budget. Our collaborative approach, problem-solving skills, and commitment to exceeding client expectations resulted in not only improved housing stock but also ensured timely accommodation for residents in need.