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Essentially the EQC along with the main insurance providers have engaged companies such as Fletchers for EQC work, or Mainzeal, Hawkins, Arrow and others to oversee your work under a PMO model (Project Management Office). They in turn authorise their accredited building company to undertake the actual work.
PROCESS:
I. Ask EQC or your private insurer for a written copy of the scope of works for your property, which should include the full cost of repairing or replacing your property. If an engineering assessment has been done ask for this also as it will be invaluable in progressing your rebuild.
II. Make an appointment for us to come to your property to go over the best strategy for speeding up your rebuild project. There is no obligation at this point, and only when you are ready will we draw up an agreement form giving us authority to proceed further.
III. At this point you will need to fill out the EQC form telling them you wish to opt out of their scheme, or if it has gone to your private insurer inform the loss adjuster assigned to you that you have chosen to work with your own professionals.
IV. Depending on your situation, you may require structural or geotechnical advice before progressing to the next stage. If this is required we can put you in touch with the appropriate professionals.
V. We can organise a qualified builder to provide full scope of works including costs to repair or rebuild your property. This can be with your preferred building company or we can make recommendations as to a suitable builder. During this period we can look at any possible improvements you may have been considering to the property. These may not be covered by your insurance, but it could be the ideal time to action them.
VI. Once we have all the necessary information at hand this can be given to your insurer for authorisation to go ahead and some sort of payment plan worked out.
VII. Apart from minor works a lot of projects require building consents. We put together a full set of architectural drawings and specifications, which along with any additional documents such as engineers reports etc. we submit to the council on your behalf, and follow it through until the consent is granted.
VIII. Once consent has been granted you are now in the position to give the go ahead to the selected building company to begin work. No matter which company you decide to work with you should ensure there are sufficient guarantees and time frames in place along with a detailed specification to cover yourself. It is good practice to get independent legal advice before signing any contract.
COSTS:
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To take control of the rebuild process of your property you should be prepared to underwrite the costs in the short term, which may be several months at a time. It will be possible to arrange for regular progress payments for larger rebuild projects with your insurance company, but initially you are likely to have to provide the funds necessary to meet a typical building contract payment schedules.
If after careful consideration you feel we can assist you in rebuilding your property, please give us a call and talk it over.
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