Frequently asked questions

Will offsite construction cost less or more than traditional fit out?

Despite the common belief that prefab is more expensive, rigorous data shows our offsite solutions deliver cost-neutral or cost-positive outcomes for developers – while also bringing benefits such as time savings, snag-free delivery, and full documentation for simple compliance.

What is the best stage in the process to procure the utility cupboard?

While the order is typically placed at RIBA stage 4, it’s important to consider design requirements at RIBA stage 2. This is particularly important for HRB (Higher-Risk Building) projects to simplify the submission of documents to the Building Safety Regulator.

What logistics do we need to account for before installing the utility cupboard?

After offloading our units into a hoist or lifting cage, you’ll move them onto the floor plate and distribute them to a storage location. When you’re ready, you’ll then move each unit to its designated apartment, remove transport feet and bars from our units, and place it on its final resting level.

Do prefabricated utility cupboards offer tangible time savings?

Yes, our offsite solutions mean fewer M&E hours spent working in the cupboard, thus reducing the risk of delays and offering the opportunity to accelerate the overall programme.

Who takes responsibility for the warranty on purchased items?

Before sign-off, we provide a clear responsibility matrix that clarifies all project equipment warranties and guarantees to ensure total transparency.

Who takes ultimate design responsibility for your unit?

We take full responsibility for design coordination and our workmanship, while the service consultants or contractors are responsible for any service-related issues.

How do you integrate your unit into the building architecturally?

Our prefabricated unit rests on the structural floor slab and adjoins the architectural door lining. The PUR also extends into the ceiling void to accommodate service connections, while a stand-alone partition is built around the unit.

What if there are too many variants within the building to make offsite viable?

Our expert Preconstruction Team will study your unique situation to adapt a small number of utility room designs naturally, even into complex building layouts. This way, our offsite solutions remain a viable, efficient option for any project.

What if it’s too late in the design process and we can’t afford to redesign the whole building?

Our cupboards fit seamlessly within the existing spatial allowances and don’t require the building to be redesigned to accommodate prefabrication.

Is it too late if our design has already been submitted to the BSR?

While it’s beneficial to include our designs in pre-submission, prefabrication does not change any specific M&E equipment or system design, and it would likely be considered a minor amendment.

How long is the design process, from point of order to first built units?

Depending on the project, the design process typically takes between 4 and 6 months. However, this timeline is often inflated by client sign-off times and can be reduced in many circumstances.

What is the carbon footprint savings of manufacturing offsite?

Offsite manufacturing can reduce a building’s carbon footprint by minimising material waste, optimising energy use during manufacturing, and lowering the impact of onsite construction.

How does your unit comply with BS 9991?

BS 9991 only applies to cupboards that are on protected corridors – the vast minority of cases. Additionally, our prefabricated cupboards typically sit within a fire rated drylined space and don’t need to be fire rated.

Is your unit fire retardant?

While our solutions don’t undergo fire testing, each unit is manufactured from fire retardant materials.

Who takes responsibility for commissioning on purchased items?

Final commissioning is carried out by the M&E contractor on site.

Do Resipoint install units onsite themselves?

Typically, installation is organised by client contractors on site. However, we can offer this as a service.

What are the lines of responsibility for connecting your unit?

As always, we’ll provide a project specific responsibility matrix before sign-off to ensure there is complete clarity on where or who connects to the unit.

Do Resipoint only use specific equipment manufacturers?

We may have a preferred supply chain that we’ll propose as value-engineered (VE) options, but ultimately, you have full control over the selection, and we’ll accommodate your specific requirements.