At Hallas & Co., we are dedicated to identifying and addressing the use of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) in buildings across London. Our mission is to ensure the safety and integrity of structures and protect the wellbeing of their occupants.
The government has recently introduced new guidance regarding the urgent need to assess public buildings that may have RAAC in their buildings. We are aware that the owners of residential buildings are also concerned, especially with buildings that have been converted from public buildings into blocks of flats.
What is RAAC?
Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) is a lightweight, precast concrete used extensively in construction from the 1950s to the 1980s. Known for its low cost and ease of use, RAAC has been found in many public and private buildings like schools and hospitals. However, over time, it has become evident that RAAC can crack and deteriorate, potentially compromising structural integrity. While public buildings constructed after the mid-1980s are less likely to contain RAAC, it is still advisable to verify this. A survey is advisable if you own or manage a building from this period.
Why is an RAAC Survey Important?
● Safety First: Ensuring the structural safety of buildings is vital. Identifying RAAC in buildings helps prevent potential hazards.
● Proactive Measures: Early detection allows for timely maintenance and repairs, extending the life of the building and ensuring safety for all users.
● Compliance: Building owners and managers must adhere to the latest safety regulations and standards.
Is Your Building Safe?
We have extensive experience working on both public and residential buildings in London and the surrounding areas, like Maidenhead and Windsor. Our RAAC surveys can identify the presence of RAAC and provide detailed recommendations on the best next steps based on the level of structural failure risk.
Our team of experienced engineers and surveyors are highly knowledgeable in inspecting buildings for the presence of RAAC. Our comprehensive survey process includes the following:
Our team of experts will guide you every step of the way:
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Step 1 – INITIAL CONSULTATION
The process starts with an initial consultation to gather information about the building and schedule a survey at a convenient time to minimise disruptions.
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Step 2 – EXPERT VISIT
If you are concerned that your building may contain RAAC material, we can visit your site and provide expert guidance on its presence. We may need to open up ceilings for inspection. The duration of the survey depends on the size and complexity of the building. Our team will provide an estimated timeline during the initial consultation.
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Step 3 – TECH REPORT
If RAAC is detected, we can provide a technical report and recommendations for the next steps to ensure the building’s safety and compliance with regulations. Every building with RAAC is unique and will have its own individual challenges. There will likely be a further, more in-depth analysis of the condition of the RAAC.
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Step 4 – ACTION
Provide a report on the RAAC condition and advise if the RAAC needs to be monitored, made safe or remediated.
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Step 5 – WORKS
Organise making safe, remedial works or monitoring, including organising structural engineering, if necessary.
Why Hallas & Co?
We are a registered RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) firm that has been conducting surveys for over 30 years. We are friendly and transparent, providing trusted and informed advice to our clients about their investments, whether they are looking to buy, sell, expand, or assess the safety of their buildings. To learn more about why you should work with us for your next project, visit our page “Why Choose Hallas & Co” – if you’re ready to arrange your RAAC survey or just need advice, please email our friendly team at info@hallasandco.co.uk