Addressing the Housing Crisis with Modular Housing
In the midst of Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions that can swiftly tackle the growing problem. The Engineers Ireland Conference highlights an approach gaining momentum – modular housing.
The Efficiency of Modular Housing
The shortage of affordable housing has reached a critical point, impacting families and individuals across the country. To combat this, modular housing offers an efficient and sustainable way to provide shelter to those in need.
The Advantages of Modular Housing
Modular housing, also known as prefabricated housing, involves constructing units off-site and assembling them at the desired location. This approach boasts several key advantages that position it as an ideal solution for the current housing crisis:
1. Speed: Modular housing can be built significantly faster than traditional construction methods, allowing for a swift response to the increasing demand for homes.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Standardised designs and efficient assembly processes often make modular housing more cost-effective than traditional construction, facilitating affordable housing options.
3. Quality Assurance: The controlled factory environment ensures high-quality construction and compliance with safety standards.
4. Sustainability: Modular housing can incorporate environmentally friendly features, reducing its ecological footprint.
The Role of Modular Housing in Crisis Mitigation
The adoption of modular housing could play a vital role in addressing the housing crisis, offering safe and comfortable homes to those in need.
Collaborative Efforts for Implementation
It is essential that the government and relevant stakeholders collaborate to promote the development of modular housing and facilitate its widespread implementation.
In Conclusion
The urgency of the housing crisis in Ireland cannot be understated. Modular housing emerges as a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to address this crisis. The Engineers Ireland Conference has shed light on the potential of this approach, and it’s time to prioritise its implementation for the benefit of those seeking a place to call home.
At AOCA, we specialise in comprehensive project management solutions, and we’re well-equipped to assist in the seamless installation of modular housing. Our experienced team will handle every aspect of your project, from planning and coordination to procurement and quality control. We ensure that the installation process is efficient, cost-effective, and adheres to the highest industry standards. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your modular housing project will be executed smoothly, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. Your vision for affordable and sustainable housing is our priority, and we’re here to make it a reality.
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The effects of climate change are increasingly visible in Ireland
/by Ciara GyvesIn recent years, Ireland has seen a significant rise in extreme weather events, raising public concern regarding the nation’s preparedness for future flooding. A survey by Engineers Ireland found that 95% of the public are worried about potential flood risks, with 58% questioning the sufficiency of current flood defence infrastructure.
According to data from Met Éireann, 2024 was recorded as the hottest year globally, while 2023 marked Ireland’s warmest year ever. Experts caution that the country is not ready for the escalating extremes of climate change, as evidenced by recent severe weather occurrences.
The recent damage inflicted by Storm Éowyn, which brought record-breaking wind speeds and widespread power outages, illustrates Ireland’s vulnerability to such events. The storm resulted in approximately €200 million in damages and left 768,000 buildings without electricity. This situation underscores the urgent need for Ireland to enhance its infrastructure and emergency climate planning.
To tackle these challenges it is important of investing in innovative technologies, renewable solutions, and improved management of critical infrastructure. A comprehensive approach is vital to protect essential services and the country’s resilience against the growing impacts of climate change.
As Structural Engineers, we specialise in designing, constructing, and maintaining vital infrastructure such as flood barriers, levees, and drainage systems. Our expertise ensures that these structures can endure extreme weather events, thereby protecting communities and critical assets.
Accurate flood risk assessments are crucial for effective flood management strategies. We at AOCA Ltd, perform these assessments by analysing various flooding mechanisms—such as groundwater, surface water, and coastal floods—to identify potential risks and develop suitable mitigation measures. For more information call us on 057 8663244 or visit www.aoca.ie.
Positions Open
AOCA Engineering Consultants are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Structural Engineer , Structural Technician, Fire Engineer & Building Surveyor to join our growing team. The role will be based in our Dublin or Portlaoise offices, and the successful candidate will work closely with Senior Engineers and Project Managers.
We offer a competitive salary package, opportunities for professional growth and development, and a collaborative and dynamic work environment.
Structural Engineer
Key Responsibilities:
Requirements:
Structural Technician
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Fire Engineer
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Building Surveyor
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Requirements:
Government Prioritises Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024
/by Ciara GyvesApartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024
The Irish government has approved the priority drafting of the Apartment and Duplex Defects Remediation Bill 2024, which addresses fire safety, structural, and water ingress issues in buildings constructed between 1991 and 2013. Under the new legislation, 100% of eligible remediation costs will be covered.
This remediation scheme, estimated at over €2 billion, aims to protect apartment and duplex owners affected by these construction defects. The Housing Agency will oversee the process, ensuring Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs) receive the funding necessary to carry out these critical repairs.
Key Facts About the Remediation Scheme:
Minister Darragh O’Brien emphasised the importance of moving swiftly to protect homeowners and said the bill is a significant step forward. In the interim, the Emergency Fire Safety Scheme remains open, providing temporary support while full legislation is finalised.
According to a government study, nearly 80% of apartment buildings constructed between 1991 and 2013 may be affected by these defects, affecting up to 100,000 homes.
The Apartment Owners Network, Construction Defects Alliance, and the Not Our Fault Campaign have played a crucial role in shaping this legislation, ensuring that homeowners’ concerns are addressed.
For more information on the bill and its progress, visit the Department of Housing, Local Government, and Heritage here and stay updated through AOCA’s news here.
Healthy Homes Ireland Retrofit
/by Ciara GyvesHealthy Homes Ireland, in partnership with the Irish Green Building Council and VELUX, hosted a pivotal breakfast event in Dublin this summer, highlighting the urgent need for retrofitting homes to enhance both mental and physical well-being.
The event spotlighted the latest Healthy Buildings Barometer, an annual report by VELUX and BPIE (Building Performance Institute Europe), which assesses the state of housing across the EU. This year’s findings are particularly concerning for Ireland, emphasising the critical need for accelerated retrofitting efforts.
Key Findings for Ireland:
Dr. Caroline Düvier from BPIE presented these findings, emphasising the need for urgent action: “Ireland is lagging behind the EU in renovating homes to make them healthier. With rising issues like dampness and insufficient daylight, immediate steps are essential to improve the living conditions across the country.”
The event featured insightful panel discussions focusing on the critical areas of concern in Irish homes and proposed actionable recommendations to enhance the health and sustainability of residential buildings.
Dr. Ola Løkken Nordrum, representing Irish Doctors for the Environment, underscored the direct connection between housing quality and health. He noted, “Our homes should be sanctuaries for health, but for many in Ireland, they are not. Issues like air pollution, dampness, and lack of sunlight are rampant. Awareness is the first step, but action must follow. Healthier homes mean healthier lives.”
Kevin O’Rourke, Chair of Healthy Homes Ireland, echoed these sentiments, calling for immediate governmental action. He stated, “Our research, including the ‘Towards Healthier Greener Homes’ report, clearly shows the profound impact of housing quality on well-being. We need swift and decisive action to ensure that everyone in Ireland can live in a healthy, green home. Investing in this now will not only improve health outcomes but also reduce future healthcare costs.”
We at AOCA Ltd offer private clients comprehensive services for building and extensions, providing tailored solutions that meet individual needs and budgets. We specialise in both structural and civil engineering, ensuring projects are not only aesthetically pleasing but also structurally sound and sustainable. We at AOCA Ltd handle everything from initial design and planning to project management and final certification, making the process seamless for our clients. Please call us on 01 4243035 /057 86 63244 or send an email to info@aoca.ie, if you require any further information.
Shortlisted for the Irish Building and Design Awards, recognised as being ‘Best in Class’
/by Ciara GyvesGovernment Announces Interim Fire Safety Funding for Celtic Tiger-Era Apartments
/by Ciara GyvesAOCA Engineering Consultants were appointed as Design Lead and Project Manager on this £9m Fire Safety and Cladding Remediation project in the U.K.
/by Ciara GyvesNORTHERN IRELAND remediation specialist, Anamore, has completed a £9m cladding remediation and fire compliance project at the Orchard Plaza apartment complex in Poole, Dorset. The 13-storey apartment building remediation works were carried out in three phases. Externally, this consisted of the removal of non-compliant ACM and HPL panels, along with all combustible elements behind the existing façade. This was all attainable through a complex scaffolding system erected on site, which was wrapped in non-combustible monoflex to help ensure the integrity of the building throughout the duration of the project. Working with the client’s design team lead by AOCA Engineering Consultants, the design and installation of the non-combustible cladding system was finalised. Anamore used A1 rated construction materials and the final design incorporated Vitradual aluminium rainscreen panels and the Vitrafix carrier system by Valcan, weather defence external sheathing board, EPDM, Effisus breather membrane, Rainscreen Duo Slab external wall insulation and the full implementation of Siderise cavity barriers. Fire Compliance Internally, the fire compliance works entailed the refurbishment of all internal fire door sets throughout the apartment complex and replacement of a number of others. The communal areas and apartment lobby areas required full “above ceiling” fire compartmentation works. Due to the makeup of the building having an old structural clay pot system, all penetrations from floor to floor such as SVPs required the install of fire/ smoke resistant seals at each point. All communal hallway ceilings were replaced with a new Kemwell suspended fire rated ceiling system, complete with above ceiling fire barriers in each apartment. The intrusiveness of these works having to be conducted with residents in situ was far from easy, the team said. It took a full team effort with constant tenant liaison ensuring works could be conducted in a prompt manner to best suit all involved with as minimal disruption as possible. James McCallan, Co-Founder & Director of Anamore, said: “We are passionate about finishing work to the highest quality, ensuring that homeowners can return to their properties with the knowledge and peace of mind that their property is safe and compliant to all current regulations. The project took a total of 22 months to complete which was both on time and on budget. We had a brilliant working relationship with the Client’s Design Team Lead by Aidan O’Connell from AOCA Engineering Consultants, this ensured a pro-active and open-minded approach to every element of the works”. “As we enter 2024, we’re projecting a significant increase in remedial works as the requirements on developers through the building safety repairs pledge come into force, and the governments Building Safety Fund being rolled out as part of the Building Safety Programme.”
Unfortunate news for homeowners as the wait prolongs for apartment defects remediation until later in 2024.
/by Ciara GyvesUnfortunate news for homeowners as legislative hurdles prolong the wait for apartment defects remediation until later in 2024. Deputy Duncan Smith recently sought clarification from the Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage regarding the anticipated timeline for the draft legislation supporting the remediation of defects in apartments and duplexes constructed between 1991 and 2013.
In February 2021, responding to the pressing issue of defects in housing, the Minister for Housing, Local Government, and Heritage established a Working Group. A critical aspect of this initiative involves the formulation of a Code of Practice, aligning with the Fire Services Acts, which was officially introduced in July 2022.
The Code of Practice for the Remediation of Fire Safety Defects stands as a cornerstone, promoting a reasonable and practical approach to addressing fire safety concerns. Its primary objective is to establish a uniform nationwide strategy for remediation, offering guidance to Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs) and the broader industry. Moving forward, this Code of Practice will play a pivotal role in supporting the implement of the remediation scheme, subject to periodic reviews.
Notably, the Code provides crucial guidance to OMCs, building professionals, and local authority building control/fire services. It encompasses interim safety measures within the framework of the Fire Services Acts of 1981 & 2003. Collaborative efforts with the local authority sector, particularly Fire Services, are ongoing to establish processes and structures aligned with the Code of Practice.
The anticipated timeline for the draft legislation, initially expected in the first half of 2024, now suggests a delay. This legislative framework is crucial as it sets the stage for the implementation of the statutory scheme, now projected for later in the same year.
For the latest and most comprehensive updates on the progress of the remediation scheme and other related developments, stay connected with the AOCA website. Alternatively, feel free to contact us, and we will be happy to assist you with any queries you may have.
The Urgent Need for Modular Housing to address the Crisis in Ireland
/by Ciara GyvesAddressing the Housing Crisis with Modular Housing
In the midst of Ireland’s ongoing housing crisis, there is a pressing need for innovative solutions that can swiftly tackle the growing problem. The Engineers Ireland Conference highlights an approach gaining momentum – modular housing.
The Efficiency of Modular Housing
The shortage of affordable housing has reached a critical point, impacting families and individuals across the country. To combat this, modular housing offers an efficient and sustainable way to provide shelter to those in need.
The Advantages of Modular Housing
Modular housing, also known as prefabricated housing, involves constructing units off-site and assembling them at the desired location. This approach boasts several key advantages that position it as an ideal solution for the current housing crisis:
1. Speed: Modular housing can be built significantly faster than traditional construction methods, allowing for a swift response to the increasing demand for homes.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: Standardised designs and efficient assembly processes often make modular housing more cost-effective than traditional construction, facilitating affordable housing options.
3. Quality Assurance: The controlled factory environment ensures high-quality construction and compliance with safety standards.
4. Sustainability: Modular housing can incorporate environmentally friendly features, reducing its ecological footprint.
The Role of Modular Housing in Crisis Mitigation
The adoption of modular housing could play a vital role in addressing the housing crisis, offering safe and comfortable homes to those in need.
Collaborative Efforts for Implementation
It is essential that the government and relevant stakeholders collaborate to promote the development of modular housing and facilitate its widespread implementation.
In Conclusion
The urgency of the housing crisis in Ireland cannot be understated. Modular housing emerges as a practical, cost-effective, and sustainable solution to address this crisis. The Engineers Ireland Conference has shed light on the potential of this approach, and it’s time to prioritise its implementation for the benefit of those seeking a place to call home.
At AOCA, we specialise in comprehensive project management solutions, and we’re well-equipped to assist in the seamless installation of modular housing. Our experienced team will handle every aspect of your project, from planning and coordination to procurement and quality control. We ensure that the installation process is efficient, cost-effective, and adheres to the highest industry standards. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your modular housing project will be executed smoothly, meeting deadlines and exceeding expectations. Your vision for affordable and sustainable housing is our priority, and we’re here to make it a reality.
Celtic Tiger Apartment Defects: Repair Plan Eligibility & Timeline
/by Ciara GyvesThe Prevalence of Apartment and Duplex Issues (1991-2013)
Between 1991 and 2013, 50% to 80% of apartments and duplexes were built with significant problems, such as those pertaining to fire safety, structural defects, and water ingress.
Government Action to Address the Problems
The Minister for Housing and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, has received government approval to create a new law to help fix these issues in apartments and duplexes built during this time. This law will establish a formal plan to address these problems and ensure the safety and well-being of people living in these properties.
Eligibility Criteria for the Repair Plan
Who is eligible for this plan? Apartments and duplexes built between 1991 and 2013 qualify for this assistance. The plan will cover the cost of repairing:
Conditions for Plan Coverage
However, the plan only applies if these problems happened because of faulty design, poor workmanship, or materials that did not meet the requirements of the Building Regulations in place when the properties were constructed.
Commencement Date and Approval Process
If you commenced addressing fire safety issues to your apartment or duplex after January 18, 2023, you can be part of this plan. It is expected to be in operation by 2024, pending the approval process. Certain conditions must be met, including approval from local fire authorities before starting the work. This is to make sure that fire safety improvements are not delayed while waiting for the plan to begin. More details about this process are currently being worked out, and additional information will be available soon.
Responsibility of Owners’ Management Companies
Owners’ Management Companies are responsible for arranging repairs in the shared areas of apartments and duplexes. Regardless of the plan, the responsibility for fire safety remains with those who control the property, as outlined in the Fire Services Acts.
Reporting and Assistance
If you suspect or discover fire safety, structural, or water ingress issues in your apartment or duplex, homeowners should initially contact their Owners’ Management Companies (OMCs). The OMC should then employ an Engineer to inspect the building.
Get in Touch for Assistance
If you believe your property has a defect, please reach out to us at aoca.ie or call our Dublin Office on 01 4243035 or Portlaoise Office on 057 8663244 for assistance. We have extensive experience addressing such issues across Ireland and the UK.