Construction Services

The Construction Department manages capital and minor works for the University main campus and student accommodation.

Services provided:

• New buildings.
• Replacement and upgrades to Campus infrastructure (e.g. electricity, gas, water, drainage, roads and carparks).
• Refurbishment and alterations of existing buildings (advice, options, planning, budgets and project management).
• Development Approvals and liaison with regulatory authorities.
• Maintaining the drawing register (e.g. floor plans, building plans, site infrastructure).

Success Factors in Construction and Refurbishment Projects

The Construction Department works closely with client groups to ensure projects achieve agreed outcomes.  Project Management Guidelines provide a framework for project establishment, progress and completion.  Components of the Guidelines that positively influence the way the Construction Department and each client group work together include:

Client Representation

For projects greater that $750,000 a Project Control Group (PCG) is established.  The main focus of the PCG is the development of the overall strategy of the project.  The PCG is represented by senior managers from the major stakeholders involved in the project.  The PCG is established to guide the Project Officer throughout the life of a project.  The PCG ensures that the project is meeting its defined objectives within time and budget.

For smaller projects a User Group is established, whose role is to communicate the requirements of the client.  A representative from each Faculty/Unit is required as well as the appointed Project Officer.

Practical Completion

Practical completion of the project allows the client to occupy the building.   At this stage UOW Security will assist the User Group to establish occupant access profiles based on needs and authorities.  Once profiles have been established and approval request reviewed, access cards and keys will be available from the FMD Service Centre.

The Defects Liability Period

The Defects Liability Period (DLP) follows the granting of practical completion and allows the client to occupy the building.   The DLP is normally 12 months.  Any defective works identified at practical completion or during the DLP, that were provided by the builder under the agreed contract, will be addressed by the builder as part of the warranty for their work.

At practical completion, the User Group nominates a Key User Contact.   This individual is notified of any defects by the building occupants.  The Key User Contact then notifies the FMD Project Officer of all defects via a Defect Notification Form.  Typical defects might include:

• A door not closing properly.
• A power point not working.
• An air-conditioner not working.

If an identified defect creates an Occupational Health and Safety hazard (for example, an electrical fault or water leaking), the Key User Contact or nominated staff member should call the FMD Service Centre immediately on 4221 3217 Monday to Friday 8:00am – 5:00pm.  Outside business hours, please contact Security on 4221 4555.

It is often the case that building occupants discover additional needs once they become accustomed to a new space.  This is not a defect and if the need was not part of the project scope then this is classified as new work and will likely attract a charge back to the client’s cost centre.  Examples of additional work would include shelving or a room divider.   During the DLP any requests for new work should still be channeled through the Key User Contact.

If you have any questions regarding Construction Services, please contact:
 

Bob Slater
Manager Construction
Facilities Management Division

Tel: 02 4221 3028
email: bob_slater@uow.edu.au