Fast, accurate utility plans for contractors
Cornerstone Projects are proud to support the UK network of Independent Connection Providers for electric, Utility Infrastructure Providers for gas and the Water Industry Regulated Accredited companies for water and sewer networks in the UK.
These highly specialised contractors work, in the main, for major operators and suppliers, repairing, maintaining and building new mains networks as well as connecting into existing networks.
The success of these companies relies heavily on careful planning as many jobs require safe dig packs and road opening licences.
Not all utility contractors are geared up to administrate the plans internally, so they call upon Cornerstone to take care of this.
Outsourcing to us can improve cost efficiencies, speed up the completion of utility reports, improve the quality of their searches and free their staff up to focus on higher value jobs.
How Cornerstone can help
- Cornerstone supply a basic search that will cover the legal requirements of the Health and Safety Executive.
- We can also supply a full cable search if required in city/urban areas.
- Basic searches are generally returned within 1-5 working days and cable searches within 7-10 working days.
- Completed searches are presented in a simple to read and accessible .pdf format.
- No obligation quotes are available instantly on-line and confirmed back via email within 20 minutes.
- We can also help with the administration of Section 50/road opening licence applications.
What does a basic search cover?
- Our basic search covers the main utilities; However, you can opt to remove services if you already have plans.
- Cable and Independent Utilities options are available if required.
- Our standard search covers up to 200m around a point.
- We cover projects of any size and also offer to draw the utilities using Computer Aided Design (CAD) to provide an overview of the site showing all the utilities at once.
Why use Cornerstone?
- Speed is of the essence to ensure there are NO delays to your projects.
- The way we process our searches, there will be no one quicker than us.
- Some basic searches will be back within 1 working day, with a UK average of 3 working days.
- We provide the fastest search possible and will not entice you with promises of more expensive, faster searches when they are simply NOT achievable.
- We offer an additional “Instant Access plans” service where we will share individual plans as they come in.
- With a cable search (that tends to take longer), for a small fee of £5+VAT, you can order an ‘interim pack’ containing the main utilities once they have been received.
- For high volume users, we even offer a GIS mapping library for managing and posting searches to improve access for your employees when in the field.
Easy to use
The key to the success is the speed and efficiency of reporting and making sure that the right information is given to the right person in the correct format.
- Our online ordering system allows quotes and orders to be processed within minutes.
- The system is secure and has fail-safe checks to ensure the right search location is covered.
Costs
We understand that keeping costs to a minimum is extremely important.
- Our fees start at £58.00+Vat plus disbursements.
- All disbursements are charged at cost (we are transparent in our pricing and only make our margin from our fees).
- We do also offer volume discounts.
- For statutory undertakers (or those working on their behalf), we may be able to request plans for free with the appropriate letters of authority.
- Comparing the cost of outsourcing to us vs. the resource required in-house may surprise you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are utility searches for utility contractors?
A utility search for a utility contractor is a process of identifying the location of underground utilities within a specific project area. This includes gas, water, electricity, telecommunication cables, and other underground infrastructure. The search provides detailed information about the type, depth, and location of these utilities.
Why are utility searches important for utility contractors?
Utility searches are crucial for utility contractors for several reasons:
- Safety: Hitting an underground utility can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. A utility search helps identify potential hazards and allows contractors to take appropriate safety measures.
- Efficiency: Knowing the exact location of existing utilities helps contractors plan their work efficiently, avoiding damage to other infrastructure and reducing project delays.
- Cost-effectiveness: By preventing damage to other utilities, contractors can avoid costly repairs and legal issues.
- Compliance: Many regulations require utility searches before starting any excavation work. Adhering to these regulations is essential for legal compliance.
In what situations would utility contractors require utility searches?
Utility contractors would need utility searches in the following situations:
- New infrastructure installation: When laying new pipes, cables, or other utility equipment.
- Repair and maintenance: When working on existing infrastructure.
- Emergency repairs: When responding to leaks, breaks, or other issues.
- Relocation of utilities: When moving utilities to accommodate other construction projects.
By conducting thorough utility searches, utility contractors can prioritise safety, efficiency, and compliance while minimising disruptions to essential services.