Case Studies

Old Tea Warehouse – High Wycombe

Old Tea Warehouse – High Wycombe

Fire Door Replacement, General Repairs & Access Control Upgrades

Project Overview

FG Property Services Ltd was appointed by Riverside Housing to carry out the replacement of 140 certified FD60 fire door sets, undertake general fabric repairs, and upgrade the building’s access control systems at the Old Tea Warehouse in High Wycombe.

The building is an extra care facility supporting vulnerable adults, including residents with complex needs. As such, the project required careful planning, exceptional coordination, and strict safeguarding and safety measures.

All works were completed within a six-week programme, with minimal disruption to residents and staff.

Client

Riverside Housing

Duration

6 weeks

Project Value

£290,000

Completed by

FG Property Services

Scope of works

Removal of 140 existing doors and installation of 140 new certified FD60 fire door sets

Adjustments and repairs to existing frames where required

Installation of compliant ironmongery, intumescent seals and smoke seals

General building repairs in communal areas

Upgrades to the building’s access control system to enhance resident safety

Daily reporting to client and scheme management

Full photographic and documentary evidence for the building’s compliance records

blog-image (12)

Key Challenges

1. Working in an Occupied Extra Care Environment

The building remained fully operational throughout the programme, with residents who required additional support, supervision, and sensitivity.

Controls implemented:

  • Segregation of work areas
  • Respectful, quiet working practices
  • Dedicated daily communication with staff and on-site managers
  • All tools counted in and out to maintain safety and security

2. Restricted Access & No On-Site Parking

The project location offered very tight access routes with no on-site parking and no space for skips.

Controls implemented:

  • Careful delivery scheduling
  • Materials brought in daily, only as required
  • Waste removed at the end of every shift
  • Just-in-time material management to avoid congestion
  • Use of small vans only, due to narrow access

3. Working Around Resident Routines

To minimise disruption and safeguard vulnerable residents, certain works had to be carried out outside of typical working hours or at specific, agreed times.

Controls implemented:

  • A phased, room-by-room programme
  • Early engagement with care staff to plan access
  • Out-of-hours work when required
  • 24-hour notice before any works impacting residents

4. Coordination With Subcontractors (Access Control Specialists)

The access-control package involved specialist subcontractors who were required to work to the same high standards as FG Property Services.

Controls implemented:

  • Daily briefings with subcontractors
  • Sharing of safeguarding protocols
  • Joint progress meetings
  • Ensuring all subcontractors followed FG’s tool-control procedures
blog-image (12)

Health, Safety and Quality Assurance

FG Property Services implemented stringent safety measures throughout the project, including:

  • Tool accountability system (tools counted in and out daily)
  • Maintaining clear evacuation routes at all times
  • Working to manufacturer installation instructions for all fire doors
  • Full photographic evidence of each installation
  • Installation labels applied to every fire door (date, installer, certification)
  • Daily cleanup of working areas and welfare facilities
  • Zero-defect quality inspection process
  • Daily updates to Riverside Housing representatives

The works were carried out safely, with no incidents or complaints recorded during the programme.

Outcome

The project was delivered on time, on budget, and fully compliant with fire safety requirements. The installation of 140 new fire door sets significantly improved the building’s fire protection strategy, while access-control upgrades enhanced resident security and operational safety.

Riverside Housing praised FG Property Services for:

  • Careful planning in a challenging working environment
  • High standards of workmanship
  • Excellent communication throughout
  • Sensitivity and professionalism around vulnerable residents
blog-image (12)

Client

Riverside Housing

Location

Old Tea Warehouse, High Wycombe

Project Value

£290,000

Duration

6 weeks

Works Completed

140 FD60 fire door replacements, repairs, access control upgrades

Environment

Occupied extra-care home for vulnerable persons

blog-image (12)

Ready to discuss your fire safety or maintenance needs?

Our team is here to help with surveys, quotes, and practical advice.