“Well now that summer is over, the predictably cold and wet season begins! We have had a very good financial performance over the past few months and early indications are that we will be finishing the year in the same manner. It’s great to see the charitable events that each company have been involved with and we are really pleased with the support and impact that can be given to local communities and projects. As usual, we welcome new faces over recent weeks and hope they settle in well within the group. We enter a period where we will be reflecting upon a successful year and are now planning for 2025, agreeing budgets, recruitment plans and investments in software platforms. Our recent announcement regarding the Octopus electric vehicle scheme was a long time in the making and we are pleased with interest shown to date. So, please enjoy reading through this latest newsletter and may we thank our marketing team again for putting this excellent content together.“
NEW OFFICE OPEN FOR COOK BROWN BUILDING CONTROL IN STOKE
Cook Brown Building Control is excited to announce the opening of their new office in Stoke-on-Trent!
While Cook Brown Building Control operate nationwide, this local presence allows them to provide more personalised and efficient services to clients in the Staffordshire area.
They have two highly experienced Registered Building Inspectors working from the office, ready to service projects across all sectors of the industry.
They’re excited to showcase our Building Control services and assist with your projects!
NEW WEBSITE FOR HICKTON GROUP
Hickton Group is pleased to showcase an updated appearance, complete with a brand-new website redesign. This transformation reflects the Group’s commitment to innovation, quality, and enhancing the client experience. The updated design not only modernises their digital presence but also reinforces their dedication to championing excellence in the built environment. Explore the new website here.
CPD EVENT COMING TO CARDIFF
Cook Brown Building Control will be hosting a CPD event in Cardiff this November, bringing together industry professionals to explore the latest updates in Welsh Building Regulations. The event will cover a range of key topics, including Fire Safety Requirements for Housing Association Projects and the implications of the Building Safety Act. Attendees will gain valuable insights into how these changes impact compliance, safety standards, and future developments within the industry
This session offers attendees valuable insights and practical knowledge to stay informed and compliant with evolving regulations. It’s an excellent opportunity for professionals to enhance their expertise, connect with peers, and ensure they are wellprepared for the future challenges facing the industry.
Cook Brown Building Control recently held their monthly training session, led by Technical Director Paul Armstrong. These sessions are a key part of their commitment to nurturing talent and enhancing the skills of our team. By investing in our people, we ensure that we not only uphold the highest standards in building control but also foster a culture of continuous growth and professional development, positioning our team for long-term success.
NEW PHOTOS FROM MORGAN LAMBERT
Morgan Lambert are proud to showcase updated images and headshots of the team! These fresh visuals offer a closer look at the talented individuals behind the scenes!
HICKTON QUALITY CONTROL TAKE PART IN THE SHEFFIELD 10K IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL HOSPICE
Hickton Quality Control took part in the Sheffield 10K to support their local hospice, St Luke’s, which provides exceptional care to individuals and families facing life-limiting illnesses. Their commitment to offering comfort, dignity, and compassion during challenging times is truly inspiring. By taking part in the 10K, the team aimed to raise both awareness and essential funds to help St Luke’s continue their remarkable work.
The team not only completed the race but also surpassed their personal bests and training goals. They’ve already exceeded their fundraising target for St Luke’s, but if you’d still like to contribute to this fantastic cause, click here to donate.
GET TO KNOW
Russell Beaumont Senior Quality Inspector
Russell has recently joined Hickton Quality Control as a Senior Quality Inspector, becoming an integral part of our Warranty team.
Tell us about your job history?
My previous experience has been within the Building Control industry, with my career starting in Local Authority Building Control in 2004. During my career, I have worked for two Local Authority Building Control Departments and also a nationwide Approved Inspector (now RBCA). Most recently, I was a Director at Vantage Building Control Ltd having been integral to its start-up and subsequent growth and success.
Tell us about your new role?
Warranty provider requirements, the Building Regulations, and associated technical guidance can be complex subjects and often open to interpretation. As such, my new role is to ensure technical quality, compliance and consistency throughout the business, associated partners and products. My role will also include on-site inspections and the auditing of technical staff to ensure that the highest standards are achieved and most importantly, maintained.
Why did you join the company?
I joined Hickton Quality Control as I could see that they share the same values in respect of service delivery, and striving to ensure both quality and excellence in construction. Throughout my career, I have simply wished to make a difference within the industry by increasing standards and workmanship alike and I feel that my new role will enable me to achieve this.
Tell us about yourself?
Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my wife and two children, and have recently been renovating and extending our family home. Whilst I enjoy my line of work, I also enjoy getting ‘hands on’ with the work on the house, albeit at ‘labouring level’. I am a passionate football fan, regularly playing and following my beloved Gillingham Football Club – much to my detriment!
OUR TEAMS EXPANDING
Join us in welcoming Karl Baker, Matt Fahey, Olivia Rose, and Adrian Silver, who have recently joined Cook Brown Building Control. With their extensive experience, they’re ready to support the team in upholding a commitment to excellence in Building Control services.
A warm welcome to all our new team members! We’re pleased to have you join the team and can’t wait to see the positive impact you’ll bring to our projects.
Cook Brown Building Control is pleased to welcome Jack Togwell, the newest Registered Building Inspector, to the London team!
Joshua Thomas has joined Cook Brown Building Control as a Registered Building Inspector in our South Wales team!
Josa Evans has recently joined Cook Brown Building Control as a Trainee and Apprentice Registered Building Inspector, bringing enthusiasm and a commitment to learning in the field of building inspection.
Steven Martin has recently joined Morgan Lambert as a Gas Quality Control Auditor. With extensive experience in gas safety and compliance, he will play a key role in maintaining high standards at the company.
Simon Butterworth has joined Morgan Lambert as a Gas Quality Control Auditor. His expertise in gas safety will be essential in upholding the company’s commitment to quality and compliance.
Barry Mullins has recently joined Morgan Lambert as a Commercial Gas Auditor. Barry will play a key role in evaluating and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.
Zoe Ritchings has joined Cook Brown Building Control as a Team Technical Administrator. Bringing strong administrative expertise and a keen attention to detail, she will support the technical team and ensure smooth operations across various projects.
Geoff Hirst has recently joined Morgan Lambert as a Gas Quality Control Auditor. His experience in the field will help ensure gas safety and compliance at Morgan Lambert.
Ricky Cuzick has recently joined Morgan Lambert as a Domestic Quality Auditor. His background in quality assessment will contribute to maintaining high standards for domestic properties.
Additional new starters at Hickton Quality Control include Amber Witham, who has joined as Bid Content Writer, and Ebony Chrismas, who takes on the role of Resource Administrator. Both will play vital roles in supporting their teams.
NEW CONTRACT WINS FOR MORGAN LAMBERT
Newark & Sherwood District Council
Following a competitive tender process through the EEM framework we are delighted to be working again with Newark & Sherwood DC. The contract is for an initial 3 years with an option to extend for a further 2 years. The works involved include a 10% inspection on both EICR and gas service works that have been completed in the previous month.
New Projects
The latest quarter has brought about some great new project work for the business including:
+A DSEAR project for our new South Wales-based Client, Trivallis.
+The provision of a technical specification for domestic, commercial and renewable heating and hot water works for Housing Plus Group.
+Completion of an Electrical Safety Management Review for Wolverhampton Homes.
+A commercial gas condition report project for Croydon Council.
+The completion of a Gas & Electrical Safety Management Review for both Wrekin Housing Trust and Housing Plus Group as part of the due diligence exercise after the proposed merger announcement.
Morgan Lambert highlight Gas Safety Week
Morgan Lambert highlighted Gas Safety Week, which took place from 9th to 15th September, raising awareness about the importance of gas safety. The campaign aimed to promote safe practices and ensure that homes and businesses across the UK remain vigilant in the proper maintenance and handling of gas appliances. For more information, check out our Instagram page here!
MORGAN LAMBERT GOLF DAY
On Thursday, 19th September, Morgan Lambert hosted their first charity golf day at Hallamshire Golf Club in support of the Yorkshire Children’s Charity. Thanks to overwhelming support from our sponsors, they raised a fantastic £7,000.
The money Morgan Lambert have raised will go towards the charity’s Winter Support 2024 programme. The aim is to help as many children as possible with essential items to keep them warm and comfortable. With their support the charity will be providing the following to those children most in need,
+A new winter coat
+New School shoes
+A set of pyjamas
+Bedding
Morgan Lambert Regional Director accepts a cheque for £500 from Steve Pritchard, Business Development Manager from West Wallasey Fleet Hire Services as a donation towards the upcoming charity golf day.
The contribution will also help with Morgan Lambert’s other programmes in the run up to Christmas.
The course was in spectacular condition, and the weather was perfect as 20 teams competed fiercely. The winners on the day were Sentinel/Ideal in first place, followed by Get Fix in second, and Bosch/HiSPEC in third. Lee Bradshaw, Managing Director, also presented individual prizes, with the Longest Drive, sponsored by Kane, awarded to Steven Campbell from Viega. Mark Harmshaw from Viega claimed the Nearest to the Pin prize, sponsored by Adey, while James Doyle from Ultimate Bathrooms took another Nearest to the Pin award. Craig Lewis from Jewson excelled in the Beat The Pro challenge.
1st place: Sentinel/Ideal
2nd place: Get Fix
3rd place: Bosch/HiSPEC
Nearest Pin: James Doyle, Ultimate Bathrooms Beat The Pro: Craig Lewis, Jewson
Nearest Pin: Mark Harmshaw, Vieg (sponsored by Adey)
Longest Drive: Steven Campbell, Campbell West (sponsored by Kane)
FEEDBACK FROM OUR VALUED CLIENTS
“Having worked with Cook Brown Building Control in the past, I found their professional support invaluable.”
“Fantastic communication and customer service at Cook Brown Building Control. Great team from beginning to end. Went the extra mile”
“Andy Clark at Qualitas Compliance is a pleasure to work with and I have no hesitation in recommending him to my clients, the service and knowledge he has to offer strengthens the design team from an early stage.”
“We have been really impressed with the service from Sam, we would definitely use Cook Brown Building Control again for any future builds/projects. Thank you for all your help and support.”
“Always a pleasure to work with Hickton Quality Control and always produces our reports on time and efficiently.”
“Quick response, quick quote turn around and friendly enthusiastic discussions on the phone with Qualitas Compliance to discuss the project further.”
“John Timmons and Trevor McGregor are great to work with at Hickton Quality Control, always make time for our project and are easy to communicate with. Also, both their advice and guidance is always very useful to our employees on site.”
“Steve Glanville has been of great support during the past year and his knowledge has been of great value to the project.”
QUALITAS COMPLIANCE UPDATES
Qualitas Compliance is excited to welcome Technical Director, Nigel Shires back to the team, rejoining on 1st September. Nigel brings a wealth of experience and expertise, which will play a vital role in strengthening their fire safety consultancy services. His return provides a significant boost, enabling the team to continue delivering highquality support to clients in this critical area.
In addition, Qualitas Compliance is pleased to have Principal Building Regulation Consultant, Andrew Bullen on board full-time from the end of July. Andrew’s extensive knowledge in building regulation consultancy has already proven invaluable, and his continued presence will further enhance their consultancy capabilities.
Principal Building Regulation Consultant, Andy Clark shares, “It’s been a pleasure working on a range of exciting schemes with clients like the British Museum and the English Cricket Board. As the business continues to grow rapidly, changes in the Building Regulation regime are driving clients to seek additional support in both fire safety and building regulations consultancy.”
Last quarter, they quoted on a diverse range of commercial projects, with potential fees exceeding £500k for the year. Demand for training and CPD is also on the rise and is expected to increase further as new responsibilities under the amended Building Regulations and duty holder roles come into effect.
QUALITAS COMPLIANCE PARTNERS
WITH GLASTONBURY TOWN COUNCIL FOR SUCCESSFUL SOUTH WEST IN BLOOM JUDGING
Qualitas Compliance is proud to partner with Glastonbury Town Council for the Glastonbury in Bloom initiative, which recently had its first South West in Bloom Judging.
This event showcases the natural beauty and community spirit of Glastonbury, highlighting the efforts of local businesses and community gardens in creating a vibrant and welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy.
For more information on Glastonbury in Bloom, visit their Facebook page.
GROUP VACANCIES
Registered Building Inspector (Class 2)
Company: Cook Brown Building Control
Location: South-West region
Due to continued growth, we have exciting vacancies for experienced Commercial Building Control Surveyors in our SouthWest region.
Principal Building Regulations Consultant Company: Qualitas Compliance
Location: Remote/Hybrid/On-site
We are a rapidly growing Building Regulations and Fire Safety Consultancy in search of a Building Regulations Consultant with responsibility for delivering our core services on a variety of project work.
Clerk of Works
Company: Hickton Quality Control
Location: Nationwide
We are actively seeking Clerk of Works on an on-going basis or full-time and part-time projects. Hickton Quality Control work on projects across the UK, to provide Quality Site Inspections for our clients.
Domestic Gas Quality Control Auditor
Company: Morgan Lambert
Location: Nationwide
The role of a Domestic Gas Quality Control Auditor will entail quality control of inspections being undertaken on a variety of works carried out for social housing providers nationwide.
Senior/Principal Registered Building Inspector (Class 3)
Company: Cook Brown Building Control
Location: Bristol & London
We are seeking a Senior/Principal
Registered Building Inspector to join our London office and Bristol office. The role offers exciting opportunities to work on a wide range of projects, and work as part of a dynamic team of surveyors.
Principal Fire Safety Consultant
Company: Qualitas Compliance
Location: Remote/Hybrid/On-site
Due to continued success and growth, an exciting opportunity has arisen to join Qualitas Compliance as a Principal Fire Consultant. This role offers the chance to contribute to high-profile projects while advancing your career in a dynamic and supportive environment
WHY JOIN OUR TEAM?
We are a company that believes in collaboration and the self-development of our staff. We believe our success comes from encouraging people to succeed and in sharing their experiences we are able to learn and grow. We also understand that supporting a healthy work-life balance is valuable to the production of our work.
We promote a healthy office environment and provide everything necessary to help you do a good job. Support is on hand when you need it with our ‘open door’ policy. We foster an environment that encourages the sharing of all ideas and will make time to listen. It’s not all work and no play, we have after-work get-togethers, raise money for various charities from different events, and try our best to accommodate the most elaborate of ideas.
We employ people who embrace and deliver our core Group values: Quality, Client Focus, Honesty, Integrity, Competency, Teamwork, Development, Accountability, and Exceptional Service. If this sounds like a team that you would like to be a part of, in return, we will provide the following:
+Holiday accrual scheme
+A friendly and professional environment
+Competitive salary
+Continuous personal development (CPD) opportunities
+Health cover
+Enhanced employer pension contributions
+ Octopus Electric Vehicle Scheme
We spoke with Morgan Lambert’s Regional Gas Manager Russell Slack about his experience at Morgan Lambert.
Russell shares: “‘When you work for a company like Morgan Lambert, you are not joining as an employee, but more as a family member. We have an open-door policy where anyone within the organisation is there to support, whether it’s work related or not. I can confidently say this from personal experience having contracted COVID and ended up in intensive care. Whilst I was off and when I started undergoing rehabilitation, there was zero pressure from work, all my work colleagues were fully supportive and caring during this transitional period back into work, for this I can’t thank everybody enough. I can honestly say that it will be a very sad day when I retire and leave this company.”
“You’re not joining as an employee, but more as a family member...”
GET TO KNOW Joshua Thomas Senior Registered Building Inspector
How did you get into your career?
I asked my uncle who was a 20+ year Building Inspector what he did at a family party and the next thing you know I’m on a building site finding out more! The rest is history!
How long have you worked in this industry?
Celebrated a decade in Building Control February this year.
Best part about working for the company so far?
The people, the people make a company, and I’m surrounded by a great team.
What was your first job?
Worked in a restaurant In Cardiff called Pillars.
What project or accomplishment are you most proud of in your career?
I very recently obtained my MCABE so that’s a huge career milestone for me.
How do you like to unwind after a busy day at work?
I play basketball in my downtime, have been playing for nearly 20 years.
What do you find helps you stay motivated and productive during challenging tasks?
I tend to find the challenge itself is what keeps me motivated, I tend to drift off if things are boring.
If you had the worlds attention for 30 seconds, what would you say?
Honestly? Nothing at all, the world already seems to be a little crazy – can’t imagine I have to say would solve that! Double edged sword I think!
What’s your ‘Go-To’ takeaway, and what’s your order?
Chinese – has to include chicken Chow Mein, salt & pepper chips and lots of curry – anything else is a bonus!
Who are your top three dinner guests dead or alive?
Ryan Reynolds, Jim Carrey, Robin Williams
You have unlimited budget but only 3 days to travel including flight / transfer times, where are you going and what are you doing?
Hmm, I’d spend 3 days making money buying/spending etc and then after the 3 days in theory I’d have enough money to have unlimited travel time on top of that unlimited budget! If this is considered cheating, then I’d have to say .. VEGAS!
What question would you like to ask the next person who fills out this questionnaire?
If you could go back 10 years and tell yourself something, what would it be?
HELP AND SUPPORT
HELP AND SUPPORT
Our wellbeing portal is easily accessible to all staff, offering resources and support. If you need login details, please reach out to HR@hicktongroup.co.uk. We’re also fortunate to have three dedicated Mental Health First Aiders within the Group, available to provide assistance whenever necessary:
