Whether you are contemplating building a new purpose-built dental surgery, converting a property, or refurbishing an existing facility, there are many different aspects to take into consideration before you embark on what could be one of the biggest projects of your professional life.
For example, you may need to undertake a feasibility study, especially for a new build or extension, and there will definitely need to be a measured survey. You may also need to commission an architect to draw up plans to demonstrate structural and building methods, elevations and drainage, which will then have to be submitted to and
approved by the local authority.
Your work will need mechanical and electrical schematics, even for a refurbishment, and there will be strict regulations to adhere to. There could even be a consultation process with Highway and Environmental Health officers for a new surgery and some local authorities will require you to apply for advertising consent to put up a brass plaque on the door.
The project could prove to be a long and complex process, and will certainly need to be carefully managed. Once planning permission and the like are granted, you may then need to source and hire individual tradespeople and suppliers, while ensuring that all work is co-ordinated. A timetable will need to be drawn up in order to make sure the project runs as efficiently and as smoothly as possible, in turn helping you to remain on schedule and on budget.
If you are running an existing practice, or even working within one, taking all of this on can be a near impossible task. Finding a contractor to take this burden from you can therefore make a huge difference, and finding the most suitable one for you is crucial.
When looking for a suitable contractor, you should expect them to have an in-depth knowledge of mandatory construction rules and regulations, particularly with regards to planning permissions, consents and restrictions, working with listed buildings and conservation, and disability access.
When building or refurbishing a dental practice there is a need to meet requirements specific to that profession. While a general contractor may understand local planning issues or parking requirements, they may have little knowledge of dental health and safety issues such as decontamination standards and NHS compliance. In order to assess your proposed project, determine whether it is economically viable and calculate its success, your contractor will need a thorough and upto- date knowledge of the dental industry.
They will be able to use their experience to advise on aspects such as the most efficient use of space, the best suited pieces of equipment and ways to enhance your branding. With the ever-changing demands of the dental industry in mind, a good contractor will also ensure there is scope for expansion of the practice in the future.
So whether your project is a fullon, build-from-scratch new surgery or it involves the refurbishment of your existing dental environment, it pays to get help from a professional contractor with specialised knowledge of the industry. They can not only help you avoid the common pitfalls and problems with property development, but can also give you peace of mind, knowing that nothing will be overlooked.