Utilities: Getting to the core

What utilities services do you offer?

We cater to the connections and infrastructure sectors of the construction industry, from full multi-utility design to fitting meters within the housing market, to renewable energy advice. We also do utility diversions, disconnections and reinforcement activities within complex regeneration schemes.

What tips do you have for contractors looking for a utilities provider?

Get a company with a proven track record of delivering projects of various sizes and scales, safely. But don’t be afraid of companies that think innovatively.

At what stage do you get involved with a project’s design?

This varies from project to project, but generally when planning permission is granted and funding is available. However, this is often too late as diversions/reinforcements may be required that alter the design or have an impact on the client’s build programme.

What do building projects traditionally do poorly where utilities are concerned?

As above, not involving utility companies early enough in the design process, which leads to a reactive approach when arriving on site. By engaging earlier, utilities companies can handle design, route and building changes more effectively.

Utilities traditionally have a bad rep for service, has anything changed?

Core has undertaken a number of initiatives to improve customer service. Two of the key areas of improvement are improving quotation times to a maximum of 12 weeks, and improving our first-time completion rate to 96%, which we’ve achieved this year to date.

Have you seen a drop off in work since the credit crunch took effect?

Absolutely. The housing market has seen the largest decline, but we have been able to diversify into other utility markets and effectively replace any downturn with new business and clients.