Thankyou to Housing 21 for this amazing feedback
“Carlton Crescent is a recently acquired sheltered scheme of 27 flats. Housing 21 embarked on an ambitious refurbishment scheme delivering new digital warden call, fire alarm systems, bathrooms and a full design-led makeover. An in-house designer and members from the local Asset Management team produced a specification which included design nuances that would present quite a challenge to the successful contractor. Ian Williams rose to the challenge, submitting the best and most competitive quote, and geared up for delivery.
As if the technical challenges weren’t enough, the UK was on full COVID-19 lockdown. Through our superb Housing Management team, residents were briefed on the nature of the works and the impact it would have on them, and were happy for us to continue. Project meetings were held which concluded in reducing staff on site, restrictions including PPE, access and egress and deliveries of materials. This was a leap into the unknown for Housing 21 and Ian Williams, yet we still delivered. Project Manager Don Holden has the drive, enthusiasm and professionalism to rise above and deal with the additional restrictions in place. His calm manner and approach is the secret ingredient that helped make this project a success.
Close relationships were maintained between Housing 21 staff and Surveyor, Brian Roberts. Brian is very cost focused yet strikes the ideal balance between remaining cost effective, without compromising quality. Housing 21 also recognise that design-led makeovers can be challenging for contractors since there may be differences in opinion between the Designer and the Surveyor, resulting in a change to the specification. The word ‘flexible’, and phrases such as an ‘evolving specification’ were commonly used when adapting changes. Brian is so accommodating and helpful, and nothing is too much trouble even when being asked to re-price a major part of the project.
Operatives on site are excellent. Not only do they deliver works to a high standard, but they also liaise well with residents and staff, and leave the work area clean and tidy at the end of the day. Ian Williams has just secured another makeover with Housing 21. We are really looking forward to transforming another Court and providing the ‘WOW factor’ we have become known for.”
