Relationship with Managing Agents and Neighbours – ‘For The Benefit Of All’

The License to Alter process can be extremely complex and challenging to navigate, for both designer and contractor, as well as the client. Rigby & Rigby, however, prides itself in the successful delivery of numerous License to Alter projects, with an extensive portfolio spanning across super-prime London. Much of this can be attributed to the collaborative approach and relationship between the companies’ Architectural and Construction divisions. This relationship means that Rigby & Rigby’s specialist License to Alter delivery team has an extensive knowledge of the process at all stages, which has been developed over more than a decade and now maintains strong relationships with countless premier property management organisations across the prime sector. This close partnership is ever present on site during the course of a project, as it presents a rare opportunity for seamless transition from design through to delivery. By forming an integral active role in the project from very early on, to handover and beyond, the specialist multi-discipline team paves strong, lasting and positive relationships with all parties involved and affected by the development, which is invaluable and cannot be underestimated for the delivery of a successful project. Communication, respect and transparency are key attributes for any successful relationship. Rigby & Rigby, from concept to completion, make it a priority to ensure these attributes are formed, managed and retained throughout a projects journey not only with the client team but also with the building’s management team and its residents.

From the early establishment of a project, the client team is introduced to a representative from the specialist License to Alter team, who take the opportunity to educate the client on the process. Using our client friendly ‘How To’ documentation we are able to clearly present our established model so they understand their obligations as a resident within the freehold demise. By carrying out this exercise the client is also aware very early on of any potential constraints that are often put in place by a Freeholder, via the House Rules and Regulations. This allows for transparency and management of aspiration, with respect to design and programme in particular, along with any opportunities that may be available to exceed client expectations. This clarity and understanding cements a positive start to the relationship, built off a depth of knowledge and expertise, which is developed further during the course of the project via clear communication. Early interaction is also key with the managing agent and building management team. Representatives from both facets of our LTA team, architecture and construction, introduces key links that and remain open and responsive for the duration of the project and beyond, to provide consistency in communication for the freeholder team. Knowledge of each project stage is key along with early awareness and compliance with the House Rules & Regulations, forms the foundation of project delivery and team expectations. These initial interactions form the catalysts of strong relationships, built through mutual respect, trust and ability.

It is commonplace for the buildings Rigby & Rigby work within are sited in conservation areas and are of exceptional heritage value, which requires full respect both in design and construction delivery, so a close relationship with the building management team, who have an extensive knowledge of the building and its utilities, is a priority. From this, more accurate information can be submitted as part of the application for a License to Alter which demonstrates understanding and fosters trust between contractor and management and smoothing the complexities of License to Alter process, maximising potential for clients and their aspirations. For neighbours, any works carried out can be a stressful experience and not all construction is welcomed. However communication and respect is key to ensure that all methods of mitigation are explored and carried out. From the outset key personnel, from architecture and construction, are identified and introduced to residents to maintain close relations and to ensure they are kept fully up to date for the duration the project. Rigby and Rigby always strive to go above and beyond so always work closely with those residents, understanding flexibility is sometimes needed to minimise impact wherever possible. If any concerns do arise these are dealt with quickly and effectively, whilst maintaining a positive relationship with all those within the building. This investment of time and energy that Rigby and Rigby apply in adhering to the License to Alter process ensures a positive relationship is formed with both the residents of the building and those who manage it. This foundation often extends beyond completion and ensures successful neighbourly relations into occupation and beyond, for the benefit of all. Associate Director Paul Jones and Associate Frankie Foord said:“As always Rigby & Rigby remain fully committed to going the extra mile to exceed client expectations and to push boundaries. Complex License to Alters are often negotiated, agreed and delivered through a complex network of positive communication, respect and transparency, supported with extensive knowledge from concept to completion. Rigby and Rigby’s collaborative relationship between Architecture and Construction provides an immeasurable foundation where design transitions into delivery seamlessly and allows these integral attributes to flourish and develop. In turn this paves the way for the delivery of exceptional projects, that push the limits of what is possible.”