Deadlines, budget and client expectations are typically the winners for top priority, while the quality of the project often slips down the ranks. One reason quality can drop out of focus is because there are limitations with self-inspection, mainly that it’s difficult to look at the work objectively. This is why the concept of third-party auditing is taking centre stage, not as a watchdog but as a supportive partner in elevating the standards of construction work.
The Project Manager’s Guide: Sample Audit for Retrofits and New Builds
In the fast-paced world of construction, there are often many priorities fighting for focus.
Collaborative Auditing for Enhanced Quality
One main concern with using a third-party audit is the potential conflict and confrontation. It can be quite scary and vulnerable to have another party come onto your site and point out where you have not delivered something at a high quality or point out a mistake that is going to cost more money. Project managers should see a third party audit as a cost-saving investment. Even if cost-incurring issues are identified during the construction phase, it is a proactive investment in the long-term safety and quality of the building project. Catching problems on-site early in the process is far more advantageous and cost-effective than discovering them five years down the line when the building is complete or, worse yet, when there is a risk of harm to individuals.
In reality, a collaborative partnership between an on-site team and third-party auditors is the key to achieving superior constructions and can actually save money. Instead of creating an adversarial environment, the goal is to work together with installers and subcontractors to improve the quality of installations.
This collaborative approach emphasises the idea of support, where third-party auditors act as partners in the construction process, identifying potential issues on site before they escalate into major problems. By fostering engagement and communication, auditors transcend from mere fault-finders to contributors to the improvement of the final product. Project managers should be excited to collaborate with an auditor to discover how the installer can improve the build, instead of dreading any surveyor coming to the site.
Two Offerings: Retrospective vs. Dynamic Inspection
There are two distinct inspection services offered as part of a sample audit for retrofits and newbuilds. The first is the traditional Retrospective Site Inspection, where completed work is opened up and improvement opportunities are identified. This method often leads to costly and time-consuming repairs, and may not fully rectify underlying compliance issues as ultimately the building wasn’t compliant to start with.
The second offering is the Dynamic Site Inspection Service whereby we are involved in the project during design and throughout the construction process. This approach provides independent monitoring of the work throughout the whole process, which provides the most cost-effective method.
We will help to identify potential queries with the design and specification during planning and monitor the installation against the design. We will also report on SHEQ (safety, health, environment, and quality) on site, programme management, and compliance. This collaborative approach provides professional oversight to help ensure the project is delivered to a higher standard the first time.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap and Legal Obligations
One significant challenge in the construction industry is the knowledge gap from project managers who may lack expertise in construction matters. Without industry insight, these project managers may be blind to the fact that they have certain legal obligations by instructing the work and have an obligation to ensure that it’s safe. A third-party auditor can step in as the eyes and ears, providing considered information to bridge the gap.
With an auditor reporting back to the project manager with considered information, they can optimise the use of the wider professional team working on the project and ensure the correct standards are maintained. This proactive approach not only protects the site’s interests but contributes to a safer and more compliant construction environment.
2CT Project Management Solution
At 2CT, we are committed to educating our clients and professional colleagues about the critical importance of independent monitoring throughout the project lifecycle. We set a new standard in project management by championing collaboration, offering dynamic inspection services, and bridging the knowledge gap for clients. As the construction industry evolves, the importance of third-party auditing as a supportive partner becomes increasingly evident, paving the way for safer, higher-quality builds.
