In June 2016, arson completely destroyed a customised motorcycle repair shop in Thornton, a suburb in the NSW City of Maitland. The business was one of three units in a small industrial complex. The insurers asked Advanced Buildings to forward a quotation to complete scope of works to reinstate the workshop to its pre-loss condition.

They admitted that we weren’t the cheapest quote. Nevertheless, the high level of technical detail in our quotation compared to others was the deciding factor in our favour. They were particularly impressed with our proposed method of concrete panel demolition and the reinstatement detail included in the proposal.

The project involved the skills of both our Building and Restorations divisions.

The Damage

The fire had damaged 8.5 metre concrete wall panels and the metal roof and roof member. The showroom and workshop areas were all badly affected by fire and soot. The office and storeroom space was destroyed.

Cost of Building and Restoration

The total repair cost was $240,000.

 The Challenges

Operating at heights up to 8 metres

The team worked safely at heights to demolish, clean and restore the soot-damaged concrete panels and repair the underside of the roof. This involved using scissor-lifts and high-pressure cleaning equipment.

Effective containment of contaminants

We installed waste-water catchment barriers to ensure no contaminated waste entered stormwater drains or sewers nearby. We also used waste-water containment for the on-site storage of collected waste-water to allow for easy disposal by the waste management contractor.

Working safely around powerlines

The reinstatement of concrete panels involved the use of a large crane. The crane needed to safely lift panels into position while operating close to powerlines.

Avoid disturbance to nearby businesses

Throughout the project, other tenants in the complex needed to remain open for business. We were careful not to block access to their premises. This was difficult at times, as we were working on the front unit of the property. Electrical repairs required cutting power to the other tenants. To avoid disturbing them, we scheduled work out of business hours. We used the crane out of business hours for this reason also.

Lack of technical plans

With no pre-existing concrete panel designs available, we designed and measured the panels on-site. We manufactured the panels and moved them into position without incident.