The data from the surveys allow the relevant Authorities, with support from SFT (where appropriate), to minimise their risk of facilities being handed back to Authorities with large liabilities in terms of replacement works which should have been carried out during the contract term.
The surveys have identified and prioritised the buildings/structures/assets most at risk and those which are vulnerable to risk (both in terms of condition and life expectancy) including associated costs.
This means that the Authority can now prioritise and implement systems and processes to manage risks whereby each defined element of their buildings (as per the relevant scope of work) has been allocated a condition and priority rating including the nature and urgency of any works required. These ratings/priorities set out in the individual reports are based on the type of work required and with indicative timescales that will allow the relevant Authorities to communicate confidently with their relevant ProjectCo of those buildings/structures/assets identified being most at risk to make them aware of their responsibilities where relevant and to plan works appropriately in order to minimise disruption to the Authority's ongoing daily activities.
This early engagement may also identify what assistance and specialist advice may be available to support ProjectCos as in some cases, there may be major repairs, works and/or lifecycle replacement to prevent further deterioration of the estate.
Given the level of information generated by the surveys and recognising the importance of holding Project Cos to account in respect to complying with their contractual requirements, there are several actions required by the relevant Authorities to ensure maximum benefit is gleaned from the data provided. These actions must include any lesson learnt and the opportunity to share outcomes across the wider public sector.