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Babangida, I (2014) Hierarchical structuring and evaluation of risks, uncertainties and technical challenges faced by building refurbishment contractors, Unpublished PhD Thesis, School of Engineering, University of Bolton.

  • Type: Thesis
  • Keywords: demolition; europe; legislation; pollution; refurbishment; sustainability; UK; uncertainty
  • ISBN/ISSN:
  • URL: http://ubir.bolton.ac.uk/910/
  • Abstract:
    The UK is believed to have some of the oldest buildings in Europe and these aged buildings are constantly growing in number while there is a concomitant growing pressure to maintain their utilitarian values in the face of changing technology, legislation and sustainability issues. Wholesale demolition of these buildings is believed to be unhealthy from an environmental protection perspective as it causes heavy pollution as well as placing more demand upon depleting resources. The need for alternatives to demolition and new-build is therefore imperative. Refurbishment is one such and a well-established alternative to demolition and new-build as the schemes are adjudged to be a cost-effective way of extending the lifespan of properties as it allows the provision of modern facilities. However, dealing with an existing building is faced with various unknowns, unexpected, unpredictable and often undesirable situations which will require further attention and a mechanism to identify any source of uncertainty because when risks are unidentified and not properly managed, they consequently affect project objectives. The study investigates the factors which contribute to risks, uncertainties and technical challenges associated with building refurbishment schemes and the impact they may have in achieving project desired outcomes. The overall objective is to develop a framework that provides helpful information to refurbishment practitioners to assist in minimising level of uncertainty. Developing a framework that provides support for decision makers in pinpointing the vital elements that define the characteristics of the refurbishment projects in terms of achieving high quality standards as well as those factors which may act as barriers was chosen for this study as there is no widely used, understood and accepted refurbishment focused framework.