Alterations Undertaken by Schools Independently of FM

Policy

Schools may not independently undertake alteration work to buildings. It is recommended that Schools work in association with FM to develop the scope of works as per the procedure below. Once the scope of works is agreed management of the contract is undertaken by FM.

Schools have justified undertaking their own alterations in the past by quoting lower buildings costs, speedier construction time and an unwillingness to pay a supervisory charge.

However, comparisons between estimates from Facilities Management and external sources reveal the latter are sometimes based upon unacceptable standards of construction and non-compliance with University and legislation standards e.g. the Building Code of Australia.

Difficulties experienced with outsourcing alterations work include contractors turning off power supplies which affects neighbouring schools, and disregard for safety issues. Facilities Management is often called upon to intervene during construction or to institute follow-up remedial work to bring the alterations to the required University standard. All costs for remedial work, including redesign and negotiation with statutory authorities are charged to schools.

Schools who wish to proceed with developing a scope of works for alterations must fulfil the following three stages of approval.

Procedures