Skip to main content
search
All Posts By

John Burke Associates

John Burke Associates
In Business

Ethical Principles for a Sustainable Future

RICS professionals

This year has presented surveyors with some of the biggest challenges in land, property, infrastructure, and construction. As RICS professionals, we look to our regulator to provide support during such extraordinary times. Therefore, we welcome the announcement of a nine-week consultation on new ethical standards for the profession.

The Consultation

The consultation was launched last week, Wednesday 7th October and will seek views from RICS professionals, consumers, and stakeholders on the new rules. The aims of the consultation are as follows;

  • Ensure professionals are supported in maintaining their skills and expertise – which includes providing advice on wider sustainability to help clients make the right decisions;
  • Embed and promote decency, inclusion and respect at the heart of the workplaces our members work in;
  • Remove unnecessary complexity and allowing everyone to clearly understand the high standards expected from RICS members.

Overcoming the Unprecedented.

In January 2020, we faced a climate crisis which demanded change from the construction industry to provide a sustainable future. In addition to the unsystematic political omnishambles of Brexit, it seemed a bleak outlook for the industry. But the Covid-19 outbreak has presented challenges which nobody could have foreseen.

The new standards will enable professionals such as John Burke Associates to evince a response to the changing priorities. Furthermore, as demand grows for businesses that strive to be good for the planet, this enables us to offer clients advice in making sustainable decisions.

RICS professionals

Conclusion

Respect is a core principle expected of every RICS professional. This extends to reflect the expectations which modern society places on us to ensure a fair, diverse and inclusive profession. The Rules of Conduct Consultation ensures that we, as professionals remain trusted and future fit by evolving the rules that underpin how we operate. Thus, leading our ongoing commitment to providing our clients with forward thinking, environmentally friendly and sustainable solutions.

John Burke Associates
In Uncategorized

Coronavirus Act 2020 – Update for Commercial Landlords

Coronavirus Act 2020

Earlier this year, Parliament introduced a list of extensive protections for commercial tenants to mitigate the economic fallout of Covid-19. The deadline for such protections was initially set for 30th September 2020. However, this deadline has now been extended until the end of the year. Below we explain the most recent developments, in particular Forfeiture and the CRAR Regulations.

Forfeiture

On 25th March 2020, parliament passed The Coronavirus Act 2020 which came into force with immediate effect. This act prevents landlords from recovering outstanding rents for properties subject to commercial lease agreements.

Section 82 of the act essentially negates the landlords right to enforce forfeiture under a relevant business tenancy, for non-payment of rent. Initially the postponement of such rights was to run until 30th June 2020. However, the end date has now been deferred to 31st December 2020.

View the Act

CRAR Regulations

The Taking Control of Goods and Certification of Enforcement Agents (Amendment) (Coronavirus) Regulations 2020 came into force 25th April 2020. Before this date, the minimum notice required for CRAR was 7 clear days excluding Sundays and Bank holidays. This has been temporarily increased substantially to 90 days. Thus, preventing landlords from taking more pugnacious approaches to outstanding arrears and protecting businesses during uncertain times.

Conclusion

The Government has been presented with a monumental challenge to protect business’s, jobs and our economy. As we enter a second wave of the pandemic it is yet to be seen if they can achieve this objective. The extension is welcomed by struggling tenants who will undoubtedly benefit from such measures. However, this offers little reassurance to commercial landlords whose tenants have defaulted. As many of the remedies for commercial landlords have once again been postponed.

John Burke Associates

We offer a full portfolio of professional services to the commercial and housing sectors for both public and private sector clients. Including but not limited too.

  • Multinational Developers
  • Private Developers
  • Housing Associations
  • Housing Trusts
  • Offices
  • Retail Units
  • Leisure & Sports Facilities
  • Private Investment Schemes
John Burke Associates
In Business

Green Light Given for Schools and Hospitals

automatic planning permission for schools

Automatic Planning Permission for Schools, Homes, Shops & Hospitals

Further to our last month’s blog “Boris says BUILD, BUILD, BUILD!” this month’s announcement brings more hope for Britain’s regeneration. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick announced further new laws which cut red tape immensely.  The new planning system supports the construction of new schools, shops, hospitals, and housing projects by granting automatic planning permission for schools, hospitals, shops, and homes in growth areas.

automatic planning permission for schools

The Areas Explained

The new regulations mean that land will be divided to fit three main categories as follows:

Growth

Automatic planning permission will be granted on all land designated as a growth area to develop new schools, shops, hospitals, offices, and housing. Therefore, empowering developers to proceed to construction without delay.

Renewal

Land designated as renewal areas will get “permission in principle” for such projects mentioned above. Consequently, projects are fast tracked to balance speed whilst ensuring the appropriate measure are taken.

Protection.

Mr Jenrick is yet to specify what limits will be given to developments in protected areas. He has listed the protected areas as “our green belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and rich heritage”. He says the plan is “protecting the places, views and landscapes we cherish most”.

Conclusion

While this is welcome news for developers, critics such as RIBA and the charity Shelter have raised concerns about quality. Will this new legislation reduce the quality of new buildings? Could this lead to poor quality housing in areas without sufficient public services? – As RICS chartered surveyors and building consultants we promote a forward-thinking approach to all projects.  Our Clerks of Works are the custodians of quality on site. We work in synergy with our clients to mitigate the risk of a defective product by undertaking the systematic inspections of in progress.

Planning for the Future

John Burke Associates offers a full range of professional and project surveying services to the education, healthcare, and commercial sectors. Our commitment is to provide our clients with a forward thinking, sustainable and environmentally friendly service. As RICS Chartered Surveyors and project managers we are confident in generating such value for money that our services are effectively cost neutral.

John Burke Associates
In Business

PM SAYS BUILD, BUILD, BUILD!

2020 planning regulations

This was the message from our Prime Minister. At the end of last month, Boris Johnson announced the most progressive reforms to the planning process since WW2. This is a welcome announcement to property developers across the UK as the bureaucracy and red tape is lifted. The new 2020 planning regulations allow the development of new homes from the regeneration of vacant, redundant buildings. Therefore, creating jobs and providing housing where people want to live, in aid of Britain’s Covid-19 recovery.

2020 planning regulations

So, what’s changed?

The relaxation in planning regulations means that property developers are not required to seek permission to change the use of the building. Consequently, commercial buildings that have become redundant during COVID-19 can now be transformed into residential dwellings without planning permission. Previously, when a building was to be repurposed, permission was required under The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987. Furthermore, you will no longer need a planning application to demolish and rebuild redundant buildings.

When do the changes come into effect?

The new legislation will come into effect as of September 2020. It is expected to support the revival of the high street and provide housing throughout the UK. In addition, these changes will provide a much-needed boost to the construction industry. Providing opportunities for developers, fast-tracking projects, and ultimately providing more jobs.

Planning a New Development?

If you are a property developer looking to take advantage of the new 2020 planning regulations contact John Burke Associates. We operate through the UK in the private, commercial, and public sectors. Our varied portfolio of services is back with an extensive knowledge spanning across all sectors of the construction industry. Whilst the red tape has now been removed you must still adhere to high standards and strict regulations throughout your project. We provide full independent construction and property advice on technical and management matters from inception through to completion and operation

Chartered Surveyors
John Burke Associates
In Business

Welcome new Fire Safety Measures for high-rise blocks

Fire Safety Act

Welcome new Fire Safety Measures for high-rise blocks

John Burke Associates join our regulating bodies in welcoming the Government Response: Sprinklers and Other Fire Safety Measures in New High-Rise Blocks of Flats. Which confirms a reduction in the height threshold at which Approved Document B recommends the installation of a residential sprinkler system in blocks of flats. Currently 30 metres, new guidance reduces this by nearly two thirds, to 11 metres.

Approved Document B

Collaborative Movement

In March 2019, three industry bodies collaborated to issue a joint statement calling on the government to change its policy on high-rise buildings. CIOB, RICS, and RIBA collectively called for the installation of sprinklers in new and converted buildings of 11m in height or above. Such buildings include residential buildings, hotels, hospitals, student accommodation, schools, and care home buildings.

A Necessary Change

Following a twelve-week Government consultation during which, the CIOB, RICS, and RIBA collectively advocated for change. Supplying evidence to the Government’s consultation on amendments to the statutory guidance on building safety regulations. The Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP published the Government’s response on 26th May 2020. The response conclusion was lowering the height threshold for sprinklers in new blocks of flats and introducing new guidance on wayfinding signage and evacuation alert systems.

Approved Document B (fire safety) volumes 1 and 2019 edition

The changes are that Approved Document B (fire safety) volumes 1 and 2019 edition are amended to include guidance that states:

  • Sprinkler systems in accordance with BS 9251 should be fitted throughout blocks of flats with a top storey more than 11m above ground level;
  • Wayfinding signage for the fire and rescue service should be provided in blocks of flats with a top storey more than 11m above ground level

Transition Period

As the respondents offered no clear view on an appropriate transition period, the view was taken the sooner the better. Therefore, the transition period is set at 6 months with the new guidance will be implemented in England 26th November 2020. It will apply to any building undertaking works unless such works have begun on-site or an initial notice/full plans are submitted by 26 November 2020 and work starts before 29th January 2021.

John Burke Associates
In Business

Tips for Those Working from Home

Working from Home

During these ambiguous times, businesses across the UK and Europe are facing extraordinary challenges. The COVID-19 crisis has been a formidable force on our usual way of life, both personally and professionally. Many companies like ourselves (chartered surveyors and building consultants) are fortunate enough to continue to do some work safely from home. However, doing so requires us all to adapt our usual daily routines significantly. Therefore, in this blog, we look to explore tips that may help those also working from home during the crisis.

Balance Work and Personal Time

When your home becomes your work environment its hard not to allow the two to entwine. Working from the comfort of your home often leads to working at times you usually would not. For example, your working day finishes, you are browsing online shopping, and a work-related email comes through. It becomes so easy to just pop on and quickly respond but before you know it you have spent an extra hour or two working.

Therefore, it is important you set times for your working day and your own personal time and do not let the two entwine.

Working from Home
chartered surveyors

Create a Work Environment in Your Home

Having a set area in your home when working, makes it easier to separate your home and work life. It may be tempting to work from the sofa or other places of comfort while at home. However, if you work in the same place you relax, it can become difficult to disassociate from work in your downtime. In addition, having a set working area means other members of your household know you are working. Whilst it is not always possible to not be disturbed, it can reduce the amount of disruption in your day.

Dress for the Day

It is important to have your work mindset in place when working from home. Therefore, keeping your usual morning routine is the best way to focus your mind. Set your alarm for the usual time and make sure you get up, showered, and dressed as if you are going to work. It can also be beneficial to go for a walk in the morning at the time you would usually commute. Almost like you are walking to work, even if it is just around the block.

Building Consultants Essex

Most Importantly, Stay Safe!

Here at John Burke Associates Chartered Surveyors and Building Consultants, we hope everyone stays safe during these times. While the focus is very much on our physical health, it is vital we all take our mental well being into account. If you are struggling during this time, please use the links below for help and advice for managing your mental health.

John Burke Associates
In Business

Brexit – How to plan for the unexpected

Project Managers

February marks the first month of Britain’s post-Brexit transition period, thus the beginning of much uncertainty across the country. Whether you perceive the British resignation from the EU to be positive or negative, we can all agree it will bring change. Consequently, with change comes challenges. Therefore, this month’s blog will offer guidance to project managers facing the challenges Brexit may bring.

Knowledge is Power

Whilst we undergo the transition period it would be prudent to research the potential consequences to your industry. Brexit will undoubtedly affect us all, both personally and professionally. The Government has provided an online tool to assist individuals and companies ascertain what preparation will be required. Simply click the link below and follow the online instructions. Furthermore, you can also subscribe to email updates to notify you about any changes that affect you.

Visit .Gov.uk

What Action Should Project Managers Take?

Project Managers need to offer strong leadership throughout the time of uncertainty. Your team will look to you for reassurance and guidance. It is likely that you will not have answers to all the questions posed to you. However, maintaining a flow of practical information through consistent communication within your company will pay dividends in team reassurance. Keeping abreast of the latest developments in trade discussions will provide you with a valuable foresight in your preparations for 2021.

Valuable Resources

The UK government, RICS and the CMI offer an abundance of articles offering proactive solutions and advice throughout the post Brexit era. Each providing companies and individuals across the UK with online information hubs dedicated to offering support and guidance. The CMI offers articles advising on scenarios such as handling change in the workplace to planning for the unpredictable. Whereas gov.uk offers the latest news and information such as “The Future Relationship between the UK and the EU”. A statement published 3rd February 2020 setting out the UK proposed approach to the all-important negotiations. Here at John Burke Associates, we would recommend the following resource links;

John Burke Associates
In Business

The Management of Site Inspection

Digital Construction Week

The construction industry continues to be perceived by both its clients and the general public as fragmented, disorganised and unprofessional. Litigation, arbitration, and continuing building failure reinforce this view. In this blog, our Technical Director of Site Inspection, Ian Carey CMgr MSc DMS FRICS FCIOB FICWCI FCABE, offers his insight into the management of site inspection.

The Quality-Cost-Time Conundrum

Project Management Division

The industry has become progressively management orientated. However, the dynamic management process tends to deal with holistic strategies. Contractors increasingly faced the dilemma posed by the quality-cost-time conundrum, a problem that is exacerbated by falling skill and resource levels.

Clients, for their part, demand value for money and cost optimisation on complex projects which they also expect to be “right first time”. Consequently, due to this dichotomy, the quality of work on site has continued to deteriorate resulting in numerous defects (many of a serious or repetitive nature) delays and additional costs.

Contributing Factors to Declining Standards

Industry trends and government legislation, such as fee bid tendering, lack of training, lowest tender philosophies, Best Value and the reduction of public and Governmental control, have all perpetuated the decline of quality standards in the completed building.  Therefore, the burden of remedial costs and user dissatisfaction has conversely increased.

The Role of a Clerks of Works

Traditionally the individual responsible for setting, maintain and policing the quality standards onsite is the Clerks of Works. Much of the foregoing can be mitigated by appointing a qualified   and experienced Clerks of Works to undertake systematic, regular and independent third-party inspection as work proceeds.

Ian currently heads up John Burke Associates Clerks of Works and Site Inspection services. He is a Fellow and twice Past President of the Institute of Clerks of Works & Construction Inspectorate of Great Britain.

Ian Carey

Our Aim

John Burke Associates’ aim is to create synergy between the Client, Contractor, and Team to realise a ‘Zero Defects’ project. Our comprehensive portfolio of services is delivered through two complementary divisions; Chartered Surveyors and Chartered Building Consultants. Each division is committed to delivering a combined tailored service, dedicated to our client’s requirement.

John Burke Associates
In Uncategorized

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from John Burke Associates.

Supporting Sustainability
Supporting Sustainability

We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from John Burke Associates. Instead of sending Christmas cards this year we have donated to “Veterans for Wildlife”. This donation will support the charity in both the empowerment of veterans and protecting critically endangered creatures. While many of us will be spending the Christmas season with friends and family, these brave individuals will be risking their lives, working through the evenings, to secure our wildlife.

Supporting Sustainability

We are proud to support this cause, which promotes a sustainable environment and has such a positive impact on society. Therefore, supporting our practice’s environmental commitment and sustainability ethos.

Find out more

A Time to Reflect

2019 has been a auspicious year across all the departments. From our trip to MIPIM in April to elevate the profile of our already expanding Surveying, Cost Consultancy, and Project Management business. To our Clerk of Works Jon Tucker winning the ICWCI Building on Quality Award. Which is a remarkable achievement for his work on the Principle London project. We have much to be thankful for. But above all else, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our clients for their ongoing support.

  • Clerk of Works
  • ICWCI Award Winners
  • IMG-20190319-WA0014
  • IMG-20190319-WA0063
  • Project Management Services
  • Quantity Surveyors
  • Property Development Projects
  • IMG-20190319-WA0010
  • Clerk of Works Award
Cost Consultancy

Looking Forward to 2020

Our aim for 2020 is to continue to build ongoing relationships with all our clients and contracts. Our organisation’s strategic business objectives are underpinned by repeat business with key clients. This ethos relies on a ‘Partnering’ mentality based on trust and performance delivery. Therefore, we strive to continue our growth by treating every client with the upmost importance and urgency.

Christmas Open Hours

The offices will close for a short time for the Christmas period to allow staff to enjoy the festivities. Our offices will close on Monday 23rd December and reopen on Thursday 2nd January. If you have any queries during this time, please use the link below to fill in a contact form. We will respond to any enquiries after the 2nd January 2020.

John Burke Associates
In Business

Constructing a Greener Environment

RICS Chartered Surveyors

There are serious concerns about the construction industry’s contribution to the world’s pollution. With estimates of its responsibility being around 4% more air, water, and noise pollution than any other industry. In addition, the UN states that just over a third of all Co2 emissions are produced from the built environment. Which is also responsible for a third of all energy consumption. As the world faces a climate crisis, we as RICS Chartered Surveyors have a responsibility. We must steer our client’s projects towards building more resilient and sustainable communities.

Why is it important?

The current rate of pollution from the industry and the built environment is not sustainable. To elaborate, we look at the three critical contributors mentioned above and what the consequences are;

Air Pollution

There are various activities within the construction industry which are major contributors to the climate crisis. Such as diesel emissions and construction dust or PM10 – particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter. These all have health consequences such as respiratory illness, asthma, bronchitis, even carcinogenic consequences. Not just a detriment to human health, such emissions are critical to the health of animals and plants.

Therefore, we must work together to find more sustainable fuel options and implement more eco-friendly site procedures.

Water Pollution

Diesel, Oil, harmful chemicals, cement, dirt, and debris are all sources of onsite water pollution. Surface water run-off carries such substances into waterways. Which is toxic to the water life and any wildlife that drinks from them.

In addition, land clearance leads to erosion in the soil which causes silt baring runoff and sediment pollution. The consequence of which is waterways becoming turbid and therefore restricting sunlight filtration, therefore obliterating aquatic life. But it’s not just the animals and wildlife who are affected. If these pollutants soak into groundwater, our drinking water becomes contaminated and furthermore, harder to treat.

Building Consultancy services

Noise Pollution

Construction sites are notorious for high-level noise; HGVs, power tools, machinery, high volume radios, and shouting. If you have ever lived near a building site, you will understand the annoyance this can cause. But the long-term effects of noise pollution can be much more severe than a noisy distraction.

Such excessive noise is linked to issues such as blood pressure, stress, hearing loss and sleep disturbance. Not just for humans but also for the surrounding wildlife. While we appreciate that a quiet construction site isn’t currently possible, we should still explore available avenues of reduction.

work related stress

What can be done?

As RICS Chartered Surveyors and Building Consultants, we advocate the global adoption of RICS Standards. We aim to ensure we work in synergy with our clients to deploy more capital towards sustainable projects. Therefore, supporting our profession in pioneering healthier more resilient environments. Which in turn provides our clients with the confidence of sustainable project investments. Our portfolio of services offers a full compilation of Chartered Surveying & Chartered Building Consultancy services;

Close Menu