
In construction, quick decision making, and precise, calculated moves are essential, ensuring everything functions as intended, down to the last detail. However, things don’t always go as planned. In fact, with most projects, unexpected issues arise which when not handled professionally can cause defects and damages and affect the building’s functionality.
Construction Remedial Works are necessary to restore the structure to its intended condition, ensure safety and compliance with regulations, and prolong the lifespan of the building. In this article, we will explore what remedial works are, provide some common examples, and explain why it is essential to work with a Client-Side Project Manager to oversee the process, avoiding the same mistakes in the future.
What Are Remedial Works?


Remedial works in construction refer to activities undertaken to rectify defects, deficiencies, or damages in a building. These works are necessary to restore the structure to its intended condition, ensure safety and compliance with regulations, and prolong the lifespan of the building. Remedial works can be initiated due to various reasons, including design flaws, construction errors, material failures, or deterioration over time.
Why Are Remedial Works Important?


Dealing with remedial work isn’t something you should take lightly. It demands expertise, a solid grasp of construction protocols, and a keen eye for detail. Remedial works are crucial in construction and building maintenance for several key reasons, which collectively contribute to the safety, functionality, longevity, and value of structures. Here are the main reasons why remedial works are important:
- Safety: Preventing accidents by addressing structural defects and damages reduces the risk of injuries or fatalities from collapses or falling debris. Additionally, compliance with safety standards ensures that buildings meet safety codes and regulations, creating a safe environment for occupants and users.
- Structural Integrity: Repairing structural elements is essential for maintaining load-bearing capacity, ensuring that buildings can safely support loads and stresses, thereby preventing structural failure. Early intervention is crucial to avoid progressive deterioration, as it prevents minor issues from escalating into major structural problems that could compromise the entire building.
- Compliance with Regulations: Remedial works ensure that buildings comply with current building codes, standards, and regulations, avoiding legal liabilities and potential fines, and ensuring compliance helps in obtaining necessary certifications and approvals from regulatory bodies.
- Prolonging Building Lifespan: Regular maintenance and timely repairs help with the longevity of buildings and their components, delaying the need for extensive renovations or replacements. By addressing wear and tear promptly, it prevents accelerated aging and deterioration of building materials
- Protecting Property Value: Well-maintained buildings retain their market value and are more attractive to potential buyers or tenants while neglecting remedial works can lead to significant depreciation in property value due to visible defects and structural issues.
- Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal: Remedial works include repairs like facade restoration and repainting, improving the visual appeal of buildings, and creating a positive impression on occupants, visitors, and potential buyers or tenants.
- Functionality and Comfort: Addressing defects that affect functionality, such as leaks or HVAC issues, ensure buildings remain comfortable and usable for occupants, while remedial works tackling moisture, mould, and other environmental issues contribute to healthier and more comfortable living or working conditions.
Common Examples of Remedial Works


Remedial works encompass various tasks aimed at addressing and rectifying defects in buildings. These interventions are crucial for maintaining structural integrity and longevity. Below are some common examples of remedial works:
- Structural Repairs: Addressing issues like settling or cracking foundations through underpinning, piling, or slab jacking or fixing spalling (also known as “concrete cancer”) by removing damaged concrete and treating or replacing corroded reinforcement.
- Waterproofing: Installing or repairing waterproofing systems to prevent water ingress in basements or below-grade structures, as well as fixing leaks or damage in roof membranes to prevent water penetration.
- Facade Restoration: Repairing deteriorated mortar joints in brick or stone facades, replacing or repairing damaged cladding materials to restore the exterior’s appearance and functionality.
- Moisture Control: Installing or repairing drainage systems to manage water flow and prevent moisture buildup.
- Mould Removal: Treating areas affected by mould growth and addressing the underlying causes of moisture.
- HVAC Repairs: Fixing issues with heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to ensure proper operation.
- Electrical System Repairs: Addressing faulty wiring, outdated systems, or non-compliant installations.
Do I Need a Project Manager for Construction Remedial Works?


The answer to this question is yes. One of the most prevalent challenges encountered by Owners, Stakeholders and businesses attempting to manage remedial works independently is the inevitable delay in timelines and increase in costs. Also, without the counsel of a construction expert, the project may have subpar results that do not address the root cause of the defects, ultimately leading to a need for further remedial work in the future.
Furthermore, not having a Project Manager for remedial works may be risky when it comes to legal and compliance issues. Construction projects must adhere to various regulations and laws. Without an expert managing these aspects, critical compliance measures may be overlooked, leading to legal problems and costly penalties.
A Client-Side Project Manager, synonymous with an Owner’s Representative can accurately forecast timelines and costs, ensuring that the different contractors and subcontractors involved in the project are working efficiently towards the project’s completion while overseeing the budget throughout the entire process.
While it may be tempting to take on the role of Project Manager yourself, availing the services of an experienced professional will ultimately save you time and money. Contact us today and let us help you achieve the best possible results for your project. You can also get a proposal using the free tool on our website.
Get started in 3 easy steps.
Submit a Request Online in 5 minutes.
Receive a Proposal in 48 hours or less.
Start whenever you are ready.
*depending on the requirements of your project, we may need to visit site or request additional information before your proposal is issued.