When a substantial escape of water incident affected a large educational facility, both the school and insurers required immediate technical support from DFA to understand the extent of the damage, mitigate further deterioration and establish a clear path towards recovery. The incident resulted in widespread water ingress throughout the property, creating concerns around hidden moisture, building fabric damage and the scope of remedial works required.
The challenge
Escape of Water incidents can have a significant impact on educational environments, disrupting daily operations, impacting teaching and increasing the risk of long-term damage to the property if not managed effectively. With this particular school, the pupils attending also had additional needs which needed to be met whilst remediation works were going on. This added further complexity to the requirements when ensuring the correct safeguarding measures were in place.
Following the peril, there was a need to quickly determine the extent of moisture throughout the building and identify any concealed damage within floors, any cavities and structural elements. Both the schools and insurers required independent technical advice to ensure remediation activities were proportionate, evidence-based and aligned with the building’s recovery requirements.
Our Approach
Davis French & Associates were appointed to provide our independent fast-track project management services. This included damage management consultancy, laboratory analysis and Damage Scene Recording services, utilising 360° photogrammetry.
Working alongside the insurer and loss adjuster, our team delivered a coordinated programme of investigation, technical assessment including ongoing project management through to the completion of the claim. Works we undertook included:
- Moisture surveying and assessment of the cause, extent and severity of damage.
- Technical advice regarding drying and remediation requirements
- Laboratory-supported analysis regarding mould contamination and moisture content of materials.
- Recommendations to support reinstatement planning and claim progression
- Project management including, facilitating all safeguarding requirements to enable pupils and staff to continue study.
By combining independent on-site expertise with scientific analysis, we were able to provide all stakeholders with a clear understanding of the property’s condition and the most appropriate route towards recovery.
The Outcome
Through detailed investigation, ongoing technical guidance and routine testing, the extent of the damage was fully established, reducing uncertainty and supporting the efficient progression of the claim.
Our ability to assess and understand the damage, undertake testing throughout the works, and effectively project manage the claim ensured the appropriate contractors were engaged and that the necessary safeguarding measures were implemented and maintained at every stage.
Our consultancy and project management services delivered significant time and cost efficiencies, while helping to minimise disruption to the school and allowing pupils to continue study throughout the works. By maintaining strong project oversight and consistently prioritising health, safety and safeguarding, the works were delivered efficiently, safely and with minimal impact on the school community.
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