| Q: |
Architects/Designers - How do I find a good Interior Designer or Architect? |
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To find a professional you can refer to membership organisations such as; British Institute of Interior design (BIID), British Interior Design Association (BIDA), Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). Another good source is to ask your business neighbours for referrals and search on the web. |
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| Q: |
Compliance – How can I be sure the work is carried out in compliance with Local Authority guidelines? |
| A: |
Any major project has to meet local authority approval. In most cases this means notifying the local authority before commencement of any work. This may include a site survey and discussion as to the various aspects of the project and how they are to be executed. Upon approval the contractor/client will be granted a license. Once completed, the works will be inspected by the local authority for compliance. This may include testing ventilation systems, emergency lighting, fire alarms etc. |
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| Q: |
Contractor – Should I contact several independent specialists or one main contractor? |
| A: |
Whilst initially it seems logical to contract with each supplier it soon becomes evident that a single source supplier who can manage all aspects of the contract is normally preferable. This leaves the client with a single point of contact and freedom to continue core business activities. |
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| Q: |
Contractor – How do I choose a contractor? |
| A: |
The first point is to establish the contractor is capable of performing the type of work you require. It is important to choose a contractor who you feel can interpret your needs and understand you aim. For bigger contracts it is also wise to work with a contractor you get on with as you can be working with that person/organisation for quite some time. |
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| Q: |
Dispute – What should I do if there is a dispute? |
| A: |
Many people find refurbishment and relocation a stressful time. Knowing this it is always good to consider all information before acting. A good contractor will generally keep detailed records so it should be easy to identify what has gone wrong and when. Once this has been done you can negotiate to rectify the problem whether this is due to lack or performance or requests omitted. You should avoid getting into a heated argument. Most people are reasonable when allowed to discuss a problem and most site problems can be rectified with an open discussion. If this is not satisfactory then you can refer to the professional bodies and they will arrange impartial arbitration. |
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| Q: |
Furniture – How do I know what furniture to buy? |
| A: |
People are often guided by the aesthetics of furniture, and whilst this is an important factor the principal concern must be the functionality of the furniture. A reputable furniture supplier can provide certification for compliance as well as satisfying ergonomic demands for an environment. |
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| Q: |
Liability – Is the contractor liable for his actions? |
| A: |
You should always ensure a contractor is carrying suitable public liability insurance for your project to cover in case of accidents, loss of property etc. A good contractor will hold this type of insurance as standard and will provide you with a copy of the certificate upon request. Be very wary of employing a contractor who does not have insurance. |
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| Q: |
Moving – How do I know if we need to move? |
| A: |
The use of space in offices is determined by HSE guidelines. If you do not meet these criteria then you may be causing an offense however this does not always mean you need to relocate. Quite often it is the case that a company has badly planned storage. A planned refurbishment with better use of storage may save up to 20% floor space. |
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| Q: |
Moving – Where should I move to? |
| A: |
When relocating it is important to consider all factors that affect the functioning of your business. These may include; transport, labour pool, communications, proximity to associated industry, how staff relate to an area, local facilities, safety after hours. Move to a place where your staff can be most productive. |
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| Q: |
Omissions – How do I check if something has been omitted? |
| A: |
When relocating it is important to consider all factors that affect the functioning of your business. These may include; transport, labour pool, communications, proximity to associated industry, how staff relate to an area, local facilities, safety after hours. Move to a place where your staff can be most productive. |
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| Q: |
Payment – Should I pay a contractor in advance? |
| A: |
When relocating it is important to consider all factors that affect the functioning of your business. These may include; transport, labour pool, communications, proximity to associated industry, how staff relate to an area, local facilities, safety after hours. Move to a place where your staff can be most productive. |
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| Q: |
Refurbishment – If we refurbish what services will the contractor supply? |
| A: |
A professional contractor should be able to provide all the fundamental services that are needed and co-ordinate third party services, usually by providing the client with a detailed list of services and questions, allowing a client to choose services not previously considered. |
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| Q: |
Relocation – Why do companies relocate? |
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Companies relocate for the following reasons:
1. Company expansion
2. Company contraction
3. Growth in business
4. Out grown existing space
5. Profits demand use of capital
6. Business model is changing
7. Takeover or amalgamation |
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| Q: |
Space – How much floor space does storage use? |
| A: |
This really depends on the type of business and storage methods a company operates. Many companies still use 2 drawer and 4 drawer filing cabinets. A Storewall system has a storage capacity 3-4 times greater in the same footprint. |
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| Q: |
Space – Who can assess if we need to refurbish or relocate? |
| A: |
Any qualified designer or architect can make a general plan to see the possibility to fit the company into an existing premises or if it is time to move, however this can be quite costly. Miller Europe provides a rapid assessment service that gives a quick overview of the premises without entering into costly agreements. |
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| Q: |
Security – How important is Security? |
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Today all aspects of security are important and these can include; the security of staff inside the building, prevention of unwanted access to the building, protection of data and other information, disposal of waste, confidential information remaining at previous address. In some cases it is worthwhile to invest in a full security report. |
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| Q: |
Suppliers – How do I know if a furniture supplier is reputable? |
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Reputable organisations will be members of an official body such as FIRA (Furniture Industry Research Association) which carries out testing on furniture for strength, fire and durability. |
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| Q: |
What Else – Have I thought of everything? |
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Probably not, but no-one ever does. The important thing is to imagine the daily routine of the office and this will guide you through most of the needs of the office. It is important to maintain good communication with your contractor. Advise them immediately you suspect you have omitted anything – It is important to remember that when everything is completed you have to work in the space you have created. Always discuss and ask questions of your contractor even for things you may not consider relevant. |
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