News

Supporting Net-Zero Targets Across the UK

The UK’s effort to meet its net-zero goals is increasing the need for energy-efficient improvements in existing buildings, especially within social housing and public sector estates.

Facilities management plays a crucial role in pinpointing the areas where targeted improvements can have the greatest impact.

Spectra supports decarbonisation efforts through energy assessments, low-carbon upgrades, and estate improvements, helping clients plan confidently for the future.

Construction Facilities Management Is No Longer Just Maintenance

Facilities management has become essential across public sector estates and housing portfolios nationwide, influencing compliance, sustainability, and resident satisfaction.

Spectra’s Construction Facilities Management services manage buildings throughout their lifecycle, from initial design to long-term operation, aiming to reduce costs and operational risks.

An integrated FM approach leads to better-performing assets and minimizes unexpected problems.

Why Treating Mould Isn’t Enough: A Common Problem in Older UK Housing Stock

In older housing areas such as Kent, Essex, and Greater London, mould often reemerges if cleaning is limited to surface treatment.

Awaab’s Law and Its Impact on Housing Providers

Since Awaab’s Law has come into force, landlords—particularly in London and the Home Counties—are now required to meet strict legal deadlines for investigating and resolving serious damp and mould issues.

Fire Stopping Audits: Increasing Demand Across Commercial & Residential Buildings

Building owners and managing agents across London and other major UK cities are increasingly performing fire-stopping audits to verify compliance and meet insurance requirements.

Why Passive Fire Protection Remains Under Scrutiny

Since the regulatory changes after Grenfell, passive fire protection remains under strict supervision in London and other densely populated cities. Inspections commonly reveal problems related to fire stopping, compartmentation, and fire doors as frequent areas of non-compliance.

Why Asbestos Compliance Still Matters in London & the South East

Asbestos compliance remains a crucial issue across London and the South East, where many schools, hospitals, retail outlets, and homes were constructed before 2000. Despite the long-standing ban, asbestos materials are still frequently encountered during maintenance and refurbishment works.

Refurbishment Projects: The Hidden Asbestos Risk

In cities such as Birmingham, Manchester, and Leeds, refurbishment activities are on the rise across retail, commercial, and residential properties. Unfortunately, asbestos continues to be discovered during these projects, leading to delays, increased costs, and safety concerns.

Why Early Enabling Works Matter on UK Development Sites

Construction delays in the Midlands and Northern England frequently stem from issues that could have been handled during the enabling phase—like undocumented services, restricted access, or contaminated ground conditions.

Meeting Environmental Targets Across Urban Developments

In busy city areas such as London, Bristol, and Brighton, sustainability objectives are influencing demolition practices. Soft strip demolition enables the recycling, reuse, or reclaiming of materials before the main structural demolition.

Unlocking Brownfield Sites Across the UK

Due to strong housing demand across the UK, particularly in the South East and major regional hubs, brownfield sites remain a priority for redevelopment. Nonetheless, soil contamination from hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and asbestos remains a significant challenge.

A Common Issue on Former Industrial Land

Asbestos contamination is increasingly found in made ground at former industrial sites, ports, and docklands, particularly in regions such as Essex, Kent, and the North West.