How to achieve a winning edge
To be a winner, site managers must show that they can motivate their teams and subcontractors to produce high standards in the homes they build. They need to demonstrate the ability to deal skilfully with any problems on site, such as difficult ground conditions or access, and show evidence of good materials handling and organisation. Judges also look for site managers' ability to establish good working relationships and manage people effectively, as teamwork is vital for building quality homes.
Build and motivate your site team
The key to success is to motivate your team to care about quality and respect the value of every member's work.
Plan the whole site thoroughly
Anticipate the sequence of construction and planned works, try to identify potential problems and hold ups before they arise on site, and eliminate them.
Protect materials and work in progress
Correct storage of materials can help eliminate expensive and time wasting re-orders. Protecting finished work from damage by following trades will help avoid unnecessary remedial work.
Constantly check for quality
Make your presence felt on site by continually monitoring quality and reliability. Good site managers lead by example and instil in their teams the belief that high standards of workmanship are the norm.
Do justice to the design
Make sure that your construction techniques and quality of workmanship enhance the design features of the new home.
Consider your customers
Ensure their home has a high standard of finish and is thoroughly clean before hand over. Check that your customers have safe, easy access to the property and that its surroundings are clean and tidy. Once your customers have moved in, look after them by avoiding working practices that may interfere with the enjoyment of their new home.
Refer to your NHBC Standards
The judges, when assessing performance, will not specifically examine your knowledge of NHBC Standards, but published within them you'll find a wealth of practical advice that will make your life easier and could help you to become a winner.
Ask for advice
Remember, NHBC inspectors are closely involved with PIJ and are happy to advise on the competition and on the application of NHBC Standards.
You may also like to invite NHBC to speak at a site seminar for site managers to give suggestions on how to improve quality and win awards. Contact your local NHBC regional director for further advice.
The secret of success is to stamp your own authority on your site right from the beginning. Ensure that the NHBC judges see the difference you have made, right across every trade - and the quality of the homes you build is never less than excellent.
