Undergoing restoration in occupied buildings is a major undertaking that requires careful thought to manage expectations, keep people safe, and complete the work in a timely manner. Any property manager and others who’ve been through a major project like that would agree that there are some unique needs and nuances when it comes to occupied building restorations. Here we look at the challenges of undergoing restorations in occupied buildings and how using experienced contractors helps overcome them.
Addressing Safety Concerns
As with any worksite, safety is a major concern. However, the big difference here is that not only is the safety of crew members important, but also safety for the residents living at the site. What is usually just a worksite, is now a home. Even if the work is happening in common areas instead of the suites themselves, the traffic of residents continues to flow throughout the site. The entire building requires special safety precautions to protect residents both inside and out. Windows and doors replacement or balcony rehabilitation projects are perfect examples of highly hazardous work sites where residents have to be protected.
Scheduling
Residents of occupied buildings require fair warning when an activity that poses a certain degree of risk such as window replacement will take place in their suite. They need to make arrangements to vacate their home for the day since it becomes a construction zone while the work is in progress. Your contractor needs to coordinate among several different players with collaboration involving deliveries, property management, and the crew. This includes providing notices to the residents prior to any work in their suites.
Work Conditions in Occupied Buildings
Along with scheduling, contractors must also provide special instructions to help residents prepare for the work in occupied buildings. In many cases not only do they have to leave their units, but they also have to move their belongings. Residents have to plan ahead where to go because they can’t enter their suite while the work is in progress. Therefore, the more notice given, the better it is for the residents and crew.
Avoiding Damage
Contractors working in occupied buildings need to protect the space whether it is a common area or the individual units. This includes assets such as furniture. Therefore work crews must understand how to protect people’s belongings and how to keep the area tidy and safe. Laying protection on floors and covering furniture all help reduce the risk for damage.
Livable Conditions
The crew must also ensure whatever comes out at the beginning of the day, is fully installed and sealed by the end of the working day when it comes to construction in occupied buildings. There is no wiggle room. Residents expect they can return to their homes in livable condition. An inexperienced crew can easily run behind, and underestimate the full scope of their work once the “job is done”. They have to factor in cleanup to remove all of the debris and ensure things such as broken glass bits, nails, dangerous adhesives, etc. are all cleared away before they leave. They also have to troubleshoot, so they avoid delays that interfere with residents returning to their homes.
An experienced contractor like Welldone Inc. understands the unique situation working in occupied buildings presents. We ensure resident safety, coordinate amongst property management and residents, and take proper care to respect the occupied space. Our proactive approach allows us to work efficiently while protecting your building and residents. Reach out if you have any questions or would like to discuss a project in your building.