When delivering a successful construction project there are some fundamentals to follow to ensure the smooth running of the project, that is no different when using Modular Construction. Stelling Properties believe there are three core principles that will deliver smooth modular projects. Early engagement of the design team Bring factory precision to onsite works Greater collaboration and communication across the project team 1. Early engagement of the design team. When using volumetric construction, the need for the early engagement of the design team cannot be over emphasized, due to the method of manufacture and construction there are important considerations regarding the scheme that require the expertise of design team and need to be decided early in the project. The key considerations for design are:  Ensuring the design delivers standardisation to maximise manufacturing performance and minimise waste whilst achieving the architectural ambitions. Performance specification Interfaces between foundations, central cores, existing buildings. Structural loadings Fire compliance Installation prioritisation Thermal performance of the modules Façade and air permeability Services and connections Ventilation Overheating 2. Bringing Factory Precision to Onsite Works The manufacturing process for the volumetric modules will work to tolerances that are not normally achieved in the traditional construction industry, in many cases the modules are built to a +/- 2mm tolerance, as a result attention needs to be given to the interfaces with the modules and any structures that are a part of the project, for example foundations, central building cores, connections to existing buildings or large communal areas. Investing time and effort in setting out to ensure that the interface surfaces meet the same exacting standards is key to preventing construction issues later in the project as the volumetric modules are installed. The key considerations in the construction stage of a volumetric construction project are: The precision required at the interfaces between the modules and the elements constructed onsite The logistics of transporting, unloading, and installing the modules on site, to maximise the efficiency of construction the modules should be lifted straight from the transport lorry to the final location. Crane lifting capacity, site location and jibbing configuration. 3. Communication We all know communication is essential to every phase of any construction project. However, with over 80% of modular construction projects completed offsite the need for communication takes on greater importance. Therefore, it is important to establish a flow of communication with everyone on the ground — and every stakeholder and supplier in the plan. This transparency will make the process smoother and will reduce the number of emails, phone calls and project delays whenever a problem arises. So, what are the best ways of ensuring a good communication flow amongst the stakeholders. Establish Clear Lines of Communication Early on in a construction project it is important to establish a clear line of communication and determine a chain of command. Choose an Appropriate Method of Communication There are numerous methods of communicating whether it be by phone, video, texting, or email. A method of communication for specific tasks and information sharing should be established between all parties, it is then important that the chosen method of communication is then always used by all the stakeholders. Listen One of the key skills of good communication is the ability to listen, whether communicating verbally, face to face or by phone. Be Clear and Concise Understand the audience, and what the information they need, as when communicating in construction, it is important to make sure a message can be understood prior to sending it to the intended recipients. Get these three important elements right and you will go a long way to delivering a successful modular construction project.

Stelling Properties are proud to announce they have joined the Climate Positive Workforce initiative operated by Ecologi, one of the UK’s leading carbon offsetting organisations. As a modular construction company Stelling Properties are working hard on developing innovative construction methods helping to reduce the time and energy required to construct and operate new buildings. We are constantly assessing our materials, waste, equipment, energy, and transportation used in our daily activities. Now we are going one stage further and partnering with Ecologi, this will result in making every staff member climate positive. This includes emissions from their homes, personal travel, holidays, food, hobbies and more. The result will be around 12,900 trees being planted and 972 tonnes of CO2 offset each year by contributing to a variety of climate positive initiatives from re-planting mangroves to community infrastructure and renewable energy programmes all helping to make a positive impact on the planet. “Ecologi play a key role in helping us to offset our carbon emissions while we work towards implementing our carbon reduction strategy”. Said Gary Robson, Technical Lead at Stelling Properties.

Stelling Properties Ltd have been voted Best Real Estate Developer & Management Company of the year 2021 in the Southern Enterprise Awards. The prestigious awards recognise companies who display, dedication to customer service, client satisfaction and display an on-going commitment to excellence and innovation. The independent panel of judges were impressed by Stelling Properties commitment to innovation, and by the use Modular construction to deliver high quality sustainable homes, the judges were also impressed by the attention to detail and relentless pursuit of improvement displayed by the team at Stelling Properties. “We are delighted to win this award, it is very much a reflection on the hard work and dedication of the team, but it is only the beginning there is a lot more to come,” said Antonio Lopez, Director of Building Operations and New Opportunities at Stelling Properties.

Following the Government’s announcement that it will provide extra funding for pilot schemes to provide temporary housing and extra care for the homeless that have recently been released from hospital, Stelling Properties is calling on those responsible for delivering the pilot programs, to look at modular construction as a way of accelerating the delivery of the homes needed.  A recent study of 3,000 homeless patients found that 2,000 were readmitted to hospital within a year, with the onset of winter approaching, there is a need to move quickly to provide high quality, safe, secure accommodation, Stelling Properties believes that modular constructed Meanwhile Housing is a solution which will allow the most vulnerable to benefit quicker thus contributing to breaking the cycle of hospital readmissions. Meanwhile housing affords the opportunity to accelerate the delivery of new homes on sites awaiting permanent redevelopment as these homes can be occupied several years before a final development is completed allowing redundant land to be utilised.   With the potential to deliver modular construction projects up to 50% quicker than traditional projects, Stelling Properties believes modular construction provides an immediate solution to homelessness crisis. “We have an innovative solution that is readily available. The extra funding is great news that will make a real difference, we now need to make sure that all parties including planners act fast to reduce the seasonal impact of winter and provide the safe secure temporary homes that are needed” said Antonio Lopez, Head of Property Operations & New Opportunities at Stelling Properties.