The Levels, Cambridge

The Levels, Cambridge

Strip and Re-install of HPL Cladding

SCF were approached to cost plan a proposal for re-cladding the building and securing initial Building Safety Fund Monies. This required an intrusive inspection to be carried out.


The intrusive survey allowed us to determine the substructure was a bracket and rail system fixed back to blockwork external walls on a concrete floor slab. It allowed us to assess that there were fire barriers installed to the perimeter of openings but limited cavity barriers were in place throughout the construction


The outcome of the Survey was our ability to prepare a more accurate Cost Plan for the Project providing a breakdown of necessary Components, Data Sheets, Fire Classification Requirements and Suggested Additional Repair Points. We provided a package of tender information, information as above as well as a package of drawing information identifying panels and indicative detail requirements, to permit the project to be put to competitive tender in order to secure funding from the Building Safety Fund. The Building Safety Fund (BSF) opened in June 2020 for buildings over 18 metres. Its aim is to provide funding to fix fire safety problems with external cladding.

Removal of HPL and Replacement with A1 Rated Fibre Cement Panel

Client: Encore Estates

Management Surveyor: Keegans

Fire Engineer: BB7


Fire remediation works to meet new building safety standards.

Project Value


Recladding Contract Value: Circa £800k

Full Scaffolding

Building Height: 18m


Access considerations include the proximity of the building to a main traffic route.


Access Strategy:

- Full Perimeter Scaffold Access with external debris netting.


Under Habitation - Poor Existing Construction

When considering how best to tackle the recladding of this building, we needed to consider the issue of keeping the building weathered while carrying out the remedial works. 


We installed an A1-rated CP Board to the existing structure, ensuring a fire-rated sheathing for the building. This will also allow us to get the building weathertight before the recladding work. It formulates part of the strategy regarding strip, survey and fabrication, permitting the building to be sealed and externally exposed for up to one year before cladding would be required. We never intend to leave the sheathing exposed for as long as a year, but it gives comfort knowing that should an unforeseen design anomaly come up, we have the time to design and procure a solution appropriately. 


The insulation was previously a 100mm PIR insulation board; we installed an A1-rated mineral Wool Rainscreen slab. New full-fill and intumescent cavity barriers, as necessary on party walls, window/door openings, and floor slab positions, prevent fire from spreading externally. 


Further, the helping hand bracketry was replaced with a new, fully calculated system to support the new A1-rated fibre cement cladding panel. We ensure that the full-through wall is compliant with the current building regulations. 

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