Lancaster Residential Renovation

In 2019 and 2020, Built Construction Group converted two flats into a three-flat property for Matt Pankhurst at 11 Lancaster Street, Karori in Wellington. The third flat was built into the existing basement.

To prepare for the build, we propped up the flats above, dug out the basement, poured new foundations and retaining walls, and waterproofed the area with waterproof membrane. We then undertook construction of the new flat, complete with two bedrooms, bathroom, kitchen and lounge. The interior fit-out included all wall linings, plaster and paint, and floor coverings.

During the project, the existing building was structurally upgraded (strengthening) and fire rating of the entire building was undertaken. We also repaired weatherboards and windows, and repainted the whole property to provide comfortable living for the incoming tenants of years to come.

There were storms with significant rainfall during the project, which presented challenges. The area became bogged, and it was difficult to drain the water away – but we worked through these issues with temporary water mitigation to continue the project through the winter months.

We assigned three builders to this job, and engaged specialist subcontractors, including:

• Earthwork contractors – basement dig-out
• Blockwork contractors – basement retaining walls
• Waterproofing contractors – basement retaining walls and foundation (waterproofing)
• Steel fabricators – structural beams
• Concrete placers – basement slabs and ground beams
• Electricians – new distribution board and wiring for new flat
• Plumbers – kitchen and bathroom
• Painters and plasterers – new flat interior, exterior of entire three-flat structure
• Window Joiners – new double-glazed windows and entrance door
• Timber Joiners – Kitchen and bathroom
• Flooring contractors – carpet and vinyl for new flat.

We enjoyed this project and bringing it to completion on budget, then seeing it fully rented out soon after to obtain rental returns.