CCTV Surveys: A Valuable Tool for Build Over Agreements

Any home or commercial construction project can be complicated; however, when your project involves building over or near a sewer, water supply network, or any other utility infrastructure, additional requirements and regulations apply. A Build Over Agreement is necessary when constructing new builds or extensions over or near these public infrastructures. In these cases, using Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) surveys as a valuable tool to ensure the safety and integrity of both the new construction and the existing utilities can be a game-changer. A Build Over Agreement is a prerequisite set by water and sewerage companies to approve any construction works over or near their assets and protect their interests. It ensures that the new development does not hinder the company’s ability to maintain and repair their infrastructure, and it also protects the developer from potential costly damages. By using CCTV surveys, developers can provide evidence to the utility company that their project will not jeopardize the integrity of the existing infrastructure.  What is a Build Over AgreementA Build Over Agreement is a contractual agreement between a property owner or developer and a water or sewerage utility company. It outlines the obligations and responsibilities of both parties regarding the construction works being carried out over or near the company’s assets.Failure to obtain proper permission from the utility company before proceeding with construction may result in legal action and financial penalties. The utility company will assess the proposed construction plans, review any required surveys or assessments, and determine whether they will grant permission for the project to move forward. If approved, the agreement will outline any conditions or restrictions that the property owner or developer must adhere to during and after the construction process. This can include specific engineering requirements, monitoring and maintenance responsibilities, and even restrictions on future alterations or additions to the property. It is crucial for property owners and developers to understand the implications of a Build Over Agreement and to obtain the necessary permissions and approvals before proceeding with any construction work over or near a utility company’s assets.  Benefit of CCTV Surveys in Build Over AgreementsEnsure the integrity of the infrastructure: CCTV surveys allow utility companies to assess the condition of their assets, identify any potential damage or weaknesses, and determine the risk level of construction works. This helps to ensure that the existing infrastructure remains functional and intact during and after the development. Identify potential issues: Through the use of CCTV surveys, property owners and developers can identify any potential issues or concerns before construction begins, allowing them to address them early and avoid costly delays or damages. Provide evidence for approval: A comprehensive CCTV survey can provide the necessary evidence required by utility companies to approve a Build Over Agreement. The survey will demonstrate that the project poses minimal risk to the existing infrastructure and adheres to the required safety standards and regulations. Types of CCTV SurveysPre-construction surveyThis type of survey is required before construction can begin on or near a utility company’s assets. It is used to assess the current condition of the infrastructure and identify any potential issues or damage. Post-construction survey  A post-construction survey is carried out after construction works have been completed. This survey is used to confirm that the utility infrastructure remains in good condition and has not been damaged during construction. Maintenance and repair surveys These surveys are used to monitor the ongoing condition of the utility infrastructure on a regular basis. They help to identify any maintenance or repair work necessary to maintain the safety and functionality of the infrastructure.  Process of a CCTV SurveyA typical CCTV survey begins with a thorough visual inspection of the utility infrastructure in question. This may involve the use of remote-controlled cameras, robotic crawlers, or even manned entry into the infrastructure. The surveyor will carefully evaluate the condition of the asset, looking for any signs of damage or potential issues.Next, the surveyor will use specialised equipment and software to collect and analyse the data from the visual inspection. This may include measuring the dimensions and slopes of the infrastructure, assessing the material composition and age, and mapping the location and characteristics of any defects or damage. Finally, the surveyor will produce a detailed report summarizing their findings and recommendations. This report may be used as part of the Build Over Agreement application process, as evidence to support the safety and integrity of the proposed construction project.  Cost of a CCTV SurveySize and complexity of the project: Larger and more complex projects may require additional equipment, manpower, and time, which will increase the cost of the survey. Type of survey: Pre-construction, post-construction, and maintenance surveys may have different costs depending on the scope and requirements of each. Location and accessibility: The location and accessibility of the utility infrastructure may affect the cost of the survey, as it may require additional equipment or personnel to access the site. What Does a CCTV Survey Include? A CCTV survey will typically include the following components: A thorough visual inspection of the utility infrastructure using remote-controlled cameras, robotic crawlers, or manned entry techniques. Collection and analysis of data, including measurements, material composition, age, and defect characteristics. Production of a detailed report summarizing the findings and recommendations of the survey, which can be used as part of the Build Over Agreement application process.The survey may also include additional services, such as dye testing, sonar tracing, or laser profiling, to gather more comprehensive information about the condition and performance of the utility infrastructure.  Necessity of a CCTV SurveyA CCTV survey is essential for any property owner or developer planning to undertake construction works over or near a utility company’s assets. It ensures the safety and integrity of both the new construction and the existing infrastructure by providing valuable information about the current condition of the assets and identifying any potential issues or concerns. Furthermore, it provides the necessary evidence required by utility companies to approve a Build Over Agreement, demonstrating that the proposed construction poses minimal risk to the existing infrastructure and adheres to the required safety standards and regulations. In conclusion, a CCTV survey is a vital tool for property owners and developers when dealing with Build Over Agreements. Its benefits make it an essential part of the construction process, ensuring the safety and integrity of both the new development. Be Sure To Get A CCTV Build-Over Survey. Avoid Delays & DisruptionIf you’re planning an extension or a building project, a build-over survey can help avoid disruption, expenses, and legal matters. Call 0800 612 8038

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