MCRMA: Why independent inspectors help minimise risk and maximise project efficiency

Many more roofing and façade projects could be delivered more efficiently, to a higher quality, and to comply with ever higher safety, performance and sustainability standards by appointing an independent inspector to play a proactive role within the project team, even from the earliest stage, in the view of the MCRMA.

As the industry association representing the complete metal building envelope supply chain, the MCRMA believes independent inspectors can perform a vital role in the successful delivery of projects, as well as resolving issues. This is why it is the only trade organisation to have independent inspectors as part of its membership. 

Its members include many of the industry’s most experienced building envelope specialists, offering a wealth of technical knowledge that can help ensure roofing and façade designs are optimised to maximise longevity and performance, whilst minimising the risk of remedial work and claims in future.

Not just reactive

Carlton Jones, Director of the MCRMA, says: “Independent inspectors are almost always the go-to specialists when things go wrong on a project, or if a client reports a problem once the building is occupied and in-use. As crucial as that reactive role is, however, it is only one part of what independent inspectors do – their work is equally about being proactive to advise on how to prevent future issues arising and optimise the design and performance of the envelope. 

“Prevention is always better than cure, which is why the MCRMA believes there is so much to be gained by engaging with independent inspectors throughout the project. If we think of what they can contribute, the cost of their involvement in a proactive role will vastly outweigh the cost in the event of any remedial work being required, plus the potential for compensation claims by the client.

“The scope of their work is vast, given the wide variety of projects they are asked to inspect and prepare reports on. This means they have a valuable technical perspective to inform decisions on aspects including the envelope design, product specification, installation processes and quality. It is experience that’s readily available to anyone seeking to minimise the risk of things going wrong.”

Greater value

Independent inspectors are best known for being able to produce roofing and cladding condition reports, dilapidations inspections and resolve disputes, with some also fulfilling expert witness roles in legal cases. However, forward-thinking developers and contractors already unlock much greater value through their involvement in projects.

Carlton Jones continues: “Independent inspectors work as consultants on many projects, supporting teams by advising in a wide variety of areas. Their work ranges from advising on budgeting and cost plans, pre-construction planning, build-ability, programming and phasing advice to providing rainwater calculations that support gutter and downpipe sizing.”

In addition to these technical roles, independent inspectors can also assist with more commercial requirements, such as producing a report for a building which is undergoing a change of ownership. They can also advise clients who are looking to install photovoltaic (PV) solar panels to ensure systems are installed in line with the manufacturers’ requirements.

A complete list of all the independent inspectors who are members of the MCRMA can be found in the ‘Member Companies’ section at www.mcrma.co.uk.

Contact:

Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association (MCRMA),
106 Ruskin Avenue,
Rogerstone,
Newport,
Gwent,
NP10 0BD.

Tel: 01633 895633

www.mcrma.co.uk

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