In 2022, we were appointed by Southern Water to support their £5 million Chichester Growth Scheme. Our role involved delivering extensive pre-commencement Schedule of Condition surveys across a large number of residential properties affected by planned sewer-laying works.

This vital infrastructure project required a clear baseline record of existing property conditions before works began—helping to manage risk, reassure residents, and mitigate potential future disputes.

Our Role and Services

We delivered a full suite of services tailored to the needs of a complex and time-sensitive infrastructure project. This included coordinating with residents to arrange property access, undertaking detailed surveys, and compiling high-quality, individualised reports. From managing logistics to ensuring accurate documentation, we worked closely with Southern Water throughout to maintain programme efficiency and community trust.

We provided services such as:

• Property Condition Surveys
• Resident Liaison and Access Management
• Detailed Reporting and Documentation

Project Scope

The Chichester Growth Scheme involved essential upgrades to sewer systems across multiple residential streets. Focus Consulting was tasked with surveying a significant number of homes—both houses and flats—situated near the construction route.

We managed every element of the survey process, including:

1. Large-Scale Property Surveys
Our team carried out comprehensive internal and external inspections where access was permitted and external-only assessments from the public highway where it was not. We also inspected communal areas in apartment blocks.

2. Resident Liaison and Scheduling
To ensure access and cooperation, we issued formal letters to residents explaining the purpose of the surveys. We coordinated appointment times, followed up where necessary, and worked in defined phases to cover all properties efficiently.

3. Thorough Documentation
We meticulously documented each property and recorded pre-existing conditions, such as hairline cracks or past repairs, and provided extensive photographic evidence. These reports formed the basis for mitigating claims arising from the planned utility works.

4. Secure Report Management
All survey data was securely stored and made available to Southern Water and residents on request. This ensured transparency and supported community engagement.

5. Client Coordination
We delivered progress updates using Southern Water’s internal references and worked closely with their team to track survey milestones and ensure successful delivery within the tight timeframe (October–November 2022).

Project Outcomes

• Successfully surveyed a large number of properties within a strict deadline.
• Delivered high-quality reports that clearly documented property conditions.
• Reduced risk of disputes by providing an accurate condition record prior to sewer works.
• Maintained strong communication with both the client and local residents.
• Demonstrated our ability to manage complex logistics across multiple addresses.

Why This Matters

Condition surveys are a critical step in infrastructure projects that affect residential areas. By thoroughly documenting the ‘before’ state of properties, we helped protect both the client and the community, providing peace of mind and a reliable reference point.

Need support with a similar utilities or infrastructure project?
Contact Focus Consulting at brighton@focuscs.co.uk.

🔍View our Chichester Growth Scheme case study