In the fast-paced world of construction and property development, even the smallest oversight can lead to costly delays, compliance issues, or structural flaws. That’s where project monitoring steps in – a crucial service that protects your investment, interests, manages risks, and ensures your building project stays on track from start to finish.

At Bradley-Mason, we provide project monitoring services tailored for investors, funders, developers and tenants. Whether you’re planning a commercial project, or mixed-use scheme, our experienced building surveyors provide the independent oversight needed to keep the project aligned with expectations and within budget.

What is project monitoring?

Project monitoring is the independent oversight of a construction project on behalf of a third party. For example, a tenant of a commercial building where the landlord is undertaking repair works to the building. It involves reviewing progress, assessing compliance with design specifications, identifying risks, and reporting on financial and contractual matters throughout the life of the project.

What can we provide?

Independent Expertise:

We work on your behalf – our team of qualified building surveyors brings impartial, expert advice to help you make informed decisions throughout the project.

Early Risk Identification:

We highlight potential issues before they escalate, from planning oversights to construction quality, helping you stay ahead of problems and avoid expensive surprises.

Financial Oversight:

We review budget forecasts, valuations, and cost reports to ensure your financial exposure is minimised and your investment is protected.

Progress Reporting:

With regular site inspections and detailed reporting, you’ll always know where the project stands in terms of time, cost and quality.

End-to-End Support:

From pre-contract reviews to final handover, we stay with you throughout the entire process, giving you peace of mind and confidence in the project’s success.
For more information please click here.

We are delighted to announce the Bradley Mason LLP team won the award for ‘Best Consultancy Practice’ at the ‘Yorkshires’ Commercial Real Estate Awards at Rudding Park on the 1st May.

Well done to the whole team on achieving this recognition. Julian Mason, Keely Mason, Michael Locke, Iain Feasey, Jade Harper and Matt MacWhirter attended on the night. A few photos below….

The awards event was held in aid of Yorkshire Children’s Charity who raised an amazing £307,929 on the night!

We are proud to be recognised in the Best Consultancy Practice category—an award that celebrates firms consistently delivering outstanding service across engineering, design, cost management, planning, and more.

Between 1st March 2024 and 28th February 2025, our team has focused on driving value, solving complex challenges, and making a meaningful impact for both clients and communities. With deep market insight and a commitment to sustainable, results-driven solutions, we continue to set the standard for consultancy excellence.

Thank you to our dedicated team.

When embarking on a construction project in the UK, it is important to consider the impact your project may have on the local wildlife and ecosystem as a whole. The UK is home to many unique indigenous species and UK wildlife laws have been implemented to ensure that these species are suitably protected. Breaching these regulations can result in significant project delays, fines, and even legal action. This blog will explore some of the most commonly encountered protected species on UK construction sites, summarise the key wildlife protection laws, explore the penalties for non-compliance and guide you on the necessary precautions that you should take to avoid harming protected species during your construction projects.

Protected Species

1. Bats

Bats are perhaps one of the most well-known protected species. All UK bat species and their roosts are fully protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017. It is illegal to disturb, harm, or destroy them or their roosts. Bats can often be found in older buildings, roofs, and trees that may be part of the construction zone. However, bats may also be found in newer build properties if they are constructed in a desirable environment. A bat survey is required to ensure their safety before proceeding with any work.

 

2. Great Crested Newts

Great crested newts are another protected species under the same laws that govern bats. These amphibians are often found in ponds, wetlands, and other damp habitats, which could overlap with construction areas. If found on site, development work may need to be halted until proper mitigation strategies, such as creating alternative habitats, are in place. Failing to comply can lead to prosecution.

 

3. Badgers

Badgers and their setts (burrows) are protected under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. Badgers are nocturnal creatures and usually shy away from human activity, but construction projects near their setts can cause them distress or even lead to the destruction of their habitats. Any development within 30 metres of a sett will require a specific license to ensure their safety.

 

4. Dormice

Hazel dormice (Muscardinus avellanarius) are rare and highly protected mammals in the UK. They prefer dense vegetation and are often found in woodlands and hedgerows, which can be impacted by construction work. If dormice are suspected or confirmed on-site, mitigation measures are crucial, including habitat management and translocation to new areas to prevent harm to the population.

The edible dormouse (Glis glis), predominantly found in southern England, is another species of dormouse that can cause significant issues during construction projects. Known for damaging timber, electrical wiring, and crops, these nocturnal rodents can be a serious nuisance in rural areas. Due to their protected status, a specific licence is required to trap and manage them, helping to prevent damage while complying with wildlife protection laws.

 

5. Birds

All wild birds, their nests, and eggs are protected by law, particularly during the nesting season, under the Wildlife and Countryside Act. It is an offence to intentionally take, damage, or destroy their nests while in use. For construction sites near woodland, hedgerows, or buildings where birds may be nesting, it is essential to carry out bird surveys to ensure no active nests are disturbed.

 

6. Reptiles

Species such as grass snakes, common lizards, and slow worms are protected from intentional killing or injury under UK law. They are often found in overgrown or neglected land, which can coincide with development sites. If present, a reptile survey and mitigation plan are required, which may involve relocating them to a safe environment.

Key Wildlife Protection Laws

Several laws in the UK govern the protection of species and their habitats. Developers must be aware of these regulations when undertaking construction projects:

• Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981: This is one of the most important pieces of legislation for protecting wildlife in the UK. It makes it an offence to harm, kill, or disturb protected species, including bats, birds, reptiles, and certain mammals. It also protects their habitats, such as nests and roosts.
• Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (EU Habitats Directive): This law implements the EU Habitats Directive in the UK, providing additional protection to species and habitats. European Protected Species (EPS), such as great crested newts and bats, are protected under these regulations, which make it illegal to kill, disturb, or damage their habitats without a licence.
• Protection of Badgers Act 1992: This law specifically protects badgers and their setts from intentional harm, killing, or disturbance. Any development near a badger sett requires special consideration and may require a licence from Natural England.
• Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006: This act places a duty on public authorities to conserve biodiversity, ensuring that all public bodies, including local authorities and developers, consider wildlife protection during planning and development processes.
• The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004: Under this law, local authorities must consider the impact of development on biodiversity, including protected species, as part of the planning process.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The UK’s stringent laws to protect wildlife, and non-compliance can lead to serious consequences. These penalties are designed to ensure that developers and construction companies take their responsibilities seriously. Here is what you could face if you fail to adhere to the regulations:

• Fines: Breaching wildlife laws can result in fines of up to £5,000 per offence for individuals and unlimited fines for organisations, depending on the severity of the violation.
• Imprisonment: In the most severe cases, individuals responsible for harming protected species or their habitats can face up to six months in prison.
• Project Delays: Construction projects may be halted or delayed if protected species are discovered on-site without proper surveys or mitigation measures in place. This could lead to significant financial losses.
• Legal Action: Developers who fail to comply with wildlife protection laws can face legal action from authorities such as Natural England, which can result in both civil and criminal proceedings.

• Reputation: Non-compliance also damages reputations, and developers may find it harder to secure future contracts or planning permissions if they are found guilty of wildlife offences.

How to Manage Protected Species on Site

To avoid costly delays, fines, and legal consequences, developers should take early action by conducting ecological surveys and assessments as part of the design risk assessments and planning process. Here are some key steps:

1. Ecological Surveys – Conduct detailed assessments to identify the presence of any protected species on site.
2. Licensed Mitigation – Obtain the necessary licenses from Natural England or other authorities if protected species are found.
3. Timing of Work – Plan construction activities to avoid sensitive times, such as bird nesting season or hibernation periods for certain animals.
4. Habitat Creation – In some cases, habitat compensation or translocation may be necessary to support wildlife populations.

Conclusion

Understanding and respecting the laws surrounding protected species is essential for any UK construction project. By taking proactive measures, complying with regulations, and learning from case law, developers can avoid project delays, protect wildlife, and prevent costly penalties. Ensuring your project remains compliant not only protects your bottom line and programme but also supports the UK’s vital and unique ecosystems.

For more information about our project management services please click here

A commercial building survey is one of the most important steps in any property acquisition or lease negotiation. Whether you’re investing in a retail space, warehouse or an office building, the insights provided by a qualified building surveyor can mean the difference between a sound investment and a costly mistake.

Your surveyor’s findings influence purchase decisions, help negotiate prices, and identify potential issues that could affect your business operations. So, choosing the right building surveyor is more important than ever. Follow our guidance on how to choose the right commercial building surveyor for your needs.

Check Their Qualifications

Professional qualifications are the foundation of a surveyor’s expertise and they’re a non-negotiable when choosing a surveyor for your project. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) membership is widely recognised as the gold standard in the industry, indicating a high level of professional competence and ethical standards.

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) is another recognised professional body for construction and property professionals. It sets standards for education and professional practice in the construction industry, ensuring your surveyor has met rigorous standards of education and training, and adheres to ethical standards in their work.

Beyond basic qualifications, surveyors should also maintain active licenses and demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development. This ensures they stay current with the latest building regulations, survey techniques, and industry best practices. When evaluating qualifications, look for chartered status and specialist certifications that are relevant to commercial property.

What Services Do They Offer?

Professional building surveyors should offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to commercial properties. These might include dilapidation reports or planned preventive maintenance schedules, for example. The scope of their services should align with your specific needs, whether you need a basic structural assessment or a detailed analysis of building systems. Pay attention to how they structure their surveys and whether they offer customisable service packages to meet your particular requirements.

What Technology and Equipment Is Used?

Building surveying techniques have evolved beyond visual inspections and measuring tapes of years gone by. Leading surveyors today utilise advanced technology such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture meters, and drone technology for comprehensive building assessments.

Certain pieces of equipment allow for greater access to a more comprehensive report. Pole cameras, drones and cherry pickers, for example, can enable surveyors to get a different view of the property and help them read hard-to-see areas like overhangs or gutters. This visibility provides a full inspection and can allow for physical issues like loose sheet fixings, trapped water beneath coverings, and brittle or damaged materials that might otherwise be missed.

Digital reporting systems also allow for detailed documentation and analysis of their findings. The use of this equipment not only improves accuracy but also enables surveyors to identify issues that might be missed through traditional methods. Consider how potential surveyors integrate technology into their work and whether their technological capabilities match your needs.

Cost Considerations

While cost shouldn’t be the primary factor in selecting a building surveyor, it’s important to understand their fee structure and ensure it provides value for money. Quality commercial building surveys require significant time and expertise, and cutting corners to save money can be costly in the long run.

Be sure to request detailed quotes that outline exactly what’s included in the service, and be wary of unusually low quotes, as they might indicate a less thorough approach or hidden costs. Consider the potential cost implications of missing serious defects when evaluating survey fees.

Local Market Knowledge

A surveyor’s understanding of the local market and building environment can be invaluable. Ideally, they should be familiar with construction methods common defects found in local buildings, and area-specific challenges such as soil conditions or weather-related issues.

Vernacular architecture varies considerably around the country too, so having a commercial surveyor who is familiar with them can more accurately assess the building’s condition, potential issues, and the appropriate repairs or renovations to respect the building’s heritage.

Local knowledge extends to understanding planning regulations, building codes, and environmental considerations specific to your area too. A surveyor with strong local connections can provide valuable insights into potential future developments or issues that might affect the property’s value.

Will You Have All the Information You Need?

It’s important that you’re able to make informed decisions, so check that your chosen surveyor’s report provides everything you need. For example, will they provide you with a detailed plan that explains the building and photographic evidence they’re supplying you with? Similarly, will they provide cost advice for your project?

What Insurance and Liability Is Provided?

Professional indemnity insurance is crucial when selecting a building surveyor. This insurance protects you if errors or omissions in the survey lead to financial losses. Request details of their insurance coverage and ensure it is adequate for your property’s value. Professional surveyors should also be transparent about their insurance arrangements and have a clear process for handling any issues that might arise.

Do They Have Positive Reviews?

Before making your final selection, conduct thorough due diligence. Check their references and read client testimonials, paying particular attention to feedback from clients with similar properties or projects to yours. It’s also worth scheduling an initial consultation with potential surveyors to discuss your needs and evaluate their expertise and professionalism. This is also an opportunity to assess their communication style and responsiveness.

Making the Final Decision

When making your final decision, it can help to create a comprehensive evaluation checklist that includes all key criteria: qualifications, experience, services, technology, local knowledge, communication, cost, and insurance.

This research will help you look for red flags such as reluctance to provide references, vague answers to specific questions, or pressure to make quick decisions. Remember that the goal is not just to complete a survey but to gain valuable insights that will inform your property decisions and protect your investment.

At Bradley-Mason, we’re RICS-accredited chartered surveyors with a wealth of knowledge on construction and property-related matters. Contact us to arrange a commercial building survey for your property or for more information about any of our services.