CLIENT

SITE

CONSULTANCY TYPE

THE TASK

MEP pre-acquisition survey is a visual, non-intrusive inspection to review the current installation(s) and condition of a range of services such as utilities, heating and cooling, ventilation, water, fire protection and lifts to list just a few. The report offers advice on the likely expenditure required to maintain operations in the short, medium and long term (within 10 years). It highlights where further, invasive feasibility studies are required and general indicative costs. It can also outline the likely risk in relation to minimum energy efficiency standards (MEES) and the likely costs and work required to achieve net-zero carbon.

54 Hagley Road is an investment grade prominent office building located in Birmingham and extends to 13,095 m2. It is split between an east wing and a west tower and shares common building services.

OUR APPROACH

A key element of the pre-acquisition survey is to review service and maintenance documents to ensure the property has not only been maintained within statutory guidelines but also in line with industry good practice. Our survey identified that the property was constructed in the 1970s. In circa 2007 it underwent major renovations to include mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems. And, additional MEP works were undertaken between 2009 and 2015. 

Within our survey, and report, we had to take account of the changes the building had gone through since construction and consider the overall implications on core plant items such as the water-cooled chillers and boilers that dated back to the property construction.

OUTCOMES

Our report identified a significant level of investment would be required to maintain/replace mechanical/electrical and plumbing services over the next 1-10 years. This helped the client take a considered approach to the negotiations during purchase and formulating the strategy for the property post-acquisition. 

The client was able to complete a successful acquisition and plans are underway for significant refurbishment works including a new reception, café and multipurpose space within the ground floor common areas.

Additionally, following purchase, the report has been used to inform the preventive planned maintenance strategy for the property. 

With the extension of the Birmingham Metro system bringing efficient public transport to the front of the building 54 Hagley Road will maintain its position as prime office location within the Midlands.