National trade body The Property Care Association (PCA) has established a new membership category, representing specialists with the skills to help householders encountering problems where sprayed foam insulation is installed in pitched roofs.

Homeowners have experienced a number of issues where sprayed foam has been applied in the roof space, including situations where properties have been hard to sell, or were unacceptable for equity release lending, due to potential issues with the installation.

Now, with the new PCA membership category in place, householders will be able to access practical guidance, centred around identification, evaluation and the recommendation of appropriate actions.

James Berry, Deputy Chief Executive of the PCA, comments: “Sprayed foam is a method of insulating within roofs, walls and floors to reduce heat loss through the building envelope.

“It has been used for many years, but its use in pitched roofs has received a lot of negative publicity as many surveying professionals and financial organisations have raised concerns regarding the potential effects of poorly applied or inappropriately specified foam.

“As a result, the presence of spray foam may significantly affect a surveyor’s valuation of a house, with many mortgage companies refusing to lend on such properties.

“For surveyors and property professionals, sprayed foam could potentially pose an issue when evaluating and reporting on the condition of structural roof timbers, ventilation and moisture management.”

The launch of the new membership category comes after the PCA contributed to new guidance in 2022 as part of a cross-industry group, which offered a defined course of action for the inspection of properties with spray roof insulation.

James Berry added “The new membership is a progression from our work two years ago and marks the next step in helping to address householders concerns across the UK.

“Those affected by poor installations had no route to seek advice on how to deal with the issue, but the new PCA membership, which has stringent requirements for entry, means there are now trained and recognised professionals who will be able to provide assistance.”

More information can be found at https://www.property-care.org/homeowners/advice/sprayed-foam

The PCA also offers a sprayed foam course for built environment professionals. More details athttps://www.property-care.org/training-qualifications/courses/timber/evaluating-spray-foam-roof/17618

EsteCapelli Medical Solutions, a leader in European healthcare innovation, has introduced the Exosome hair transplant method, revolutionising the approach to treating hair loss. This method utilises exosome plasmas, rich in proteins from umbilical cord blood, to foster cell regeneration in the transplant area and bolster the development and strength of hair follicles through signaling molecules.

EsteCapelli, recognised as a pioneer in the fields of hair transplantation and regenerative therapies in Europe, announces the Exosome hair transplant method, representing the forefront of technological and therapeutic advancements in the battle against hair loss. Under the guidance of the esteemed Mehmet Hanifi Kutlar, EsteCapelli has embarked on the Exosome hair therapy, significantly enhancing the quality and appearance of hair transplant results, ensuring the growth of hair that is both healthier and more naturally appearing.

Exosomes have quickly become a focal point in the science of hair aesthetic enhancement and rejuvenation, with their effectiveness firmly supported by scientific research. These plasma exosomes, natural promoters of hair regeneration, stimulate cellular proliferation in the transplant area and enhance hair follicle growth through potent signaling.

Fusing Science with Advanced Technological Breakthroughs in Hair Restoration

Exosome therapy draws on the potent potential of exosomes from cells maintained in optimal conditions, aiming for precise therapeutic effects. This therapy is crucial in the hair transplantation process, supporting the formation, growth, and sustenance of hair follicles. It employs exosomes from cord blood, abundant in proteins, growth factors, and minerals, crucial for fostering healthier hair growth.

Mehmet Hanifi Kutlar shared his perspective on EsteCapelli’s adoption of this method, stating, “The intersection of science and high technology with years of experience is a breakthrough in hair restoration. Science has almost reached its peak in hair transplantation technology.”

Revolutionising the Hair Transplantation Experience and Post-Operative Care

Exosomes obtained from umbilical cord blood plasma tackle a significant challenge in the healing process after hair transplantation. The Exosome treatment method simplifies the grafts’ adaptation to their new environment, encouraging the growth of healthier hair, and marking a transformative development in hair transplant technology. Mehmet Hanifi Kutlar remarked, “For patients looking for the best hair transplant method, Exosome hair treatment makes it possible to get more effective results in a shorter time.”

Marking a Milestone with Over 15,000 Successful Procedures

EsteCapelli, a trailblazer in broadcasting Turkey’s health tourism capabilities to the world and a leading health service exporter to 47 countries, remains at the forefront of the latest in hair transplantation and cosmetic surgery innovations, making these cutting-edge treatments accessible to its patients. EsteCapelli, led by Mehmet Hanifi Kutlar, a prominent hair transplant specialist and Medical Director, is dedicated to ensuring patient satisfaction, having achieved over 15,000 successful treatments worldwide. He stated, “As EsteCapelli, we have once again proven our commitment to offer the most advanced technology and the best results with the Exosome hair transplant method. This innovation reinforces our leading position in our field. Anyone who wants to open the door to a happy future can benefit from the end-to-end hair transplantation service offered by EsteCapelli in Istanbul.”

For further details, contact info@estecapelli.com or call +90 541 541 00 41.

Enabling document digitalization, compliance and sustainability for the world’s largest asset class

Findable, which automates building documentation using Artificial Intelligence (AI), has arrived in the UK to solve building document chaos, using AI to read and automatically sort over one million documents for its customers to date. Building documentation is a key factor in cost and risk management and yet all too often property owners keep a mixture of analogue and digital systems.

Findable digitises building documentation, using AI to automatically categorise documents, provide compliance status and allowing users to locate specific information via a search function. The software is able to analyse headlines, pictures and drawings, and quickly conclude what the document shows and how it should be organised. It also produces a red flag report for each building which shows a building’s compliance status with items organised by what is required by law or operationally recommended.  The red flag report shows what’s missing and assists users in filling these gaps.

Building documentation or the ‘instruction manual’ of a building can relate to anything from the construction history and contractor details to maintenance information on HVAC units, pipes, electricals and fire safety. Storing this documentation safely and organising it in an easily accessible way is necessary to ensure routine facility management, inspection and certification processes. Poorly organised documentation results in additional costs for building owners while the physical storage of documents can frequently result in loss or damage.  With Findable, documents are more secure, complete and can be mined for information. This reduces the time consuming and manual process of managing complex documents, enabling construction companies and facility managers to streamline the process of inspections and certifications.

The volume of documentation in construction is increasing which is why Findable has made it easy for building owners to interact with their buildings.  To start, owners just drag and drop existing documentation and the files are automatically organised across 300+ categories all of which are searchable and accessible. Users can, for example, ask directly about the dimensions of a ventilation system and the answer references the document in which Findable found the information, so that users can manually verify the answer.       

Renovating buildings and reusing building materials is key across Europe but the challenge is the lack of knowledge around how old the materials are, what they are made of, or how much longer they are safe to use.  “To reach the climate goals, we have to reuse as much of the world’s materials as possible, but we need documentation in place to make it happen”, says CEO and Co-founder of Findable, Fredrik H. Wisløff.  “Then there is also an associated key safety challenge which the recent RAAC issue highlighted” Wisløff continues.    “Our system works for schools but also offices, shopping malls, warehouses so can be used by a mixture of public sector, banks and private commercial companies from large-scale problems to more day-to-day maintenance issues.”

“The UK is the obvious next step in Europe for Findable” adds Wisløff  “with London rightly perceived as the real estate capital of Europe.  And yet, our research shows that digitization here is behind the curve. Documentation may be the boring, but essential part, of this highly regulated industry. But we also play an important role in helping building owners in the green premium/brown discount issue as it has never been more important for banks to show a green portfolio among their CRE customers. To put it simply, if you don’t have your documents in order, you won’t get (good) financial deals either”.

The facilities management sector in Europe is a massive market undergoing its own digital transformation. The construction industry, property developers and facility managers all require digital solutions to meet complex regulatory and sustainability requirements. Findable’s solution provides easy access to the right building documentation, supporting workflow automation and thereby removing a major bottleneck.

New contemporary business space has been released in Dalmarnock by Red Tree, one of Glasgow’s most established collaborative workspace brands, adding to their locations in Bridgeton and Magenta business park in Rutherglen.

With interior design provided by commercial specialists Bell & Swift, Red Tree Eastworks is one of the premier office spaces available in Scotland. 

The innovative new workspaces have a range of options for tenants, ranging from hot desking to dedicated suites, recognising the need for spaces that suit the hybrid way of working.

The site is set within a former Victorian era gas purifier shed. The structure was recently retrofitted as part of the EastWorks development by Clyde Gateway and opened by the Deputy First Minister, Shona Robison MSP.

EastWorks is the fourth development for Red Tree which has been providing high quality workspace in the east end of Glasgow and Rutherglen for almost 15 years.

The Grade A flexible work spaces range from 322 sq ft to 3,448 sq ft, meaning there are spaces for up to teams of 50. There are a range of work solutions available including business club membership providing hot desking and a business address. There is a premium dedicated desk rental option, and dedicated flexible suites are also available for rent.

Red Tree is operated by Clyde Gateway, Scotland’s largest regeneration company, which has been developing numerous commercial and industrial spaces in the east end of Glasgow and in Rutherglen as part of its wider regeneration programme.

Lisa Miller, Project Manager at Clyde Gateway said: “Clyde Gateway was proud to regenerate this derelict site and Red Tree can now offer collaborative work spaces suited to the modern hybrid work environment, bringing more jobs and investment into the east end of Glasgow.

“Red Tree at EastWorks is beautifully designed and provides a superb experience for employees and businesses, with excellent amenities on site. Through our other Red Tree offerings in Bridgeton and Rutherglen, we understand the current market and we know these sorts of workspaces that are well connected and of very high quality are hugely desirable for businesses and organisations of all sizes.”

Craig McKie, Creative Director at Bell & Swift who provided interior design for the new space, added: “We wanted this space to provide a modern, collaborative workspace, yet recognise the Victorian roots of the building and the industrial heritage of the local community. The bold colour palette takes inspiration from Glasgow’s heritage of turkey red dye, as well as the weaving industry that was once such a key part of Dalmarnock.

“Ultimately, we wanted to provide a space that can be enjoyed and be a place where people want to spend time. Alongside Red Tree and Clyde Gateway, I believe we have transformed a derelict structure into a workspace that rivals any in the city, whilst ensuring the building doesn’t lose any of its charm.”

Award-winning housebuilder The Hill Group is set to launch Hartley Acres, a new development located within the undulating landscapes of the High Weald in Cranbrook, Kent. Comprising a stunning collection of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes, Hartley Acres is set within an abundance of green space and blends modern living in a commutable location with all the benefits of a rural, community-focused village lifestyle.

Prospective buyers are invited to an exclusive launch event on Saturday 10th February 2024. Please register your interest by emailing enquiries@hartleyacres.co.uk or calling 01580 231556 to book your space and find out more information on the event.

New residents at Hartley Acres will move into a home with an enduring appeal in an idyllic and highly desired location. Designed with sustainability and the future in mind, all homes are energy-efficient and have been thoughtfully considered in terms of layout and specification. The homes have also been designed to be reflective of Kent’s historic architecture with a modern touch to blend in effortlessly with the beautiful surroundings. The colour palette used is inspired by the authentic architectural style of the county; for example, The Crane House is crafted in the style of Kent’s oast houses, which were once used for kiln-drying hops. These buildings are a key part of the region’s historical identity and brewing and agricultural past.

All properties include sleek and stylish integrated appliances as standard and range from two- to five-bedrooms. There is something to suit everyone at Hartley Acres, whether downsizers, second-steppers, families or young professionals.

The impressive development is positioned within open, green spaces and is in an ideal location to enjoy the quintessential Kentish countryside. Precious woodland spaces have been protected for residents to enjoy, with new wildflower meadows, ponds, an orchard and reconnected hedgerow corridors to enrich habitats and biodiversity. At the heart of Hartley Acres, there will be a village green where neighbours can come to meet and socialise.

Reflecting Kent’s status as the ‘Garden of England’, young families will love the extensive open space and rural surroundings at Hartley Acres.  Offering an idyllic and family-friendly lifestyle, Cranbrook is ideally situated within the catchment for several exemplary schools. Most schools are rated ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted and range from pre-school and nursery to primary schools and secondary schools. There are also highly regarded sixth form colleges that help young students progress into successful careers.

In addition, Hartley Acres stands out as it will enable residents to discover a true work-life balance. The nearest train station, Staplehurst, is a short drive from the development and is convenient for direct connections to the city, as trains run to London Bridge in 50 minutes and Charing Cross in one hour. Living in this perfect position will allow prospective buyers to embrace the best of being both connected and set apart from the hustle and bustle. While access to the city during the week is simple, residents can relax in the tranquil countryside on the weekends.

Often referred to as the ‘capital of The Weald,’ Cranbrook is a highly sought-after village location that offers many amenities. A post office, bakery and farm shop are just a few of the conveniences only a short walk away, and an array of eateries where first-class food and drink can be enjoyed, complete the enviable lifestyle available here. There is also the Weald Sports Centre nearby, which has a range of exceptional sports and fitness facilities.

Cranbrook is a town that prioritises tradition and culture, which is evident from their recurrent events such as the Apple Fayre, which takes place each autumn, and the bi-annual Cranbrook Literature Festival, which celebrates the area’s literary history, complete with events and competitions for all booklovers involved.

Rebecca Littler, Group Sales and Marketing Director at The Hill Group, comments: “It is a privilege to be able to enhance this already thriving community while reflecting Kent’s incredible history and architecture within our new collection of homes. This is a highly sought-after location where residents will enjoy quick connections to the city and the coast, as well as relaxing in the open green spaces of the countryside, and I look forward to seeing many others appreciate the benefits of living in this area.”

She continues: “These outstanding, energy-efficient homes are built to the highest specification and are ideal for those looking for a long-term place to settle themselves and establish their roots.”

Prices at Hartley Acres start from £429,950 for a two-bedroom, detached home. For more information, please visit www.hill.co.uk/hartley-acres, or please call 020 3906 1952 or email enquiries@hartleyacres.co.uk.

Home Sale Pack has formally launched with a service that promises to drastically shorten the homebuying and conveyancing processes by ensuring that buyers have up-front access to all of the vital information they require to make a decision on whether or not to purchase a home, rather than having to wait until they’re weeks into the sale. 

In 2023, 269,728 home sales fell-through, leaving buyers, sellers, and agents in a state of limbo, and potentially having a catastrophic domino effect on many other sales linked to its chain. 

One key reason for fall-throughs is the colossal amount of time it takes to complete the conveyancing process. Current estimates put the average conveyancing timeline at 12 – 16 weeks.

Home Sale Pack will slash timeframes by providing buyers and conveyancers with relevant, up-front information, from planning permissions and local authority searches, to survey results, EPC ratings, and the newly announced material information requirements, the latter of which are required under consumer protection regulations.

How does it work?

A seller can either register directly through Home Sale Pack’s platform, or they can be introduced through their Estate Agent. Sellers then verify their ID, confirm the boundaries, order title documents and searches and complete their property forms through the easy to follow steps. Home Sale Pack then goes on to find as much additional, formal information as possible and raise any corrective actions required by the seller within a property health check, before finalising a sale ready pack.  

Home Sale Pack has been brought to the market by Ruth Beeton and Simon Priestley, both of whom are highly-experienced conveyancing solicitors at HS Conveyancing Ltd and know the process inside out, including its obstacles, delays, and pitfalls, all of which have been directly addressed with their new technology solution. 

Home Sale Pack is currently developing Artificial Intelligence technology that will automatically and comprehensively find any and all information about a property, thus eliminating the tiresome administrative duties that have come to consume the majority of a conveyancer’s daily work.

Ruth Beeton, Co-Founder of Home Sale Pack, says:

“Property transaction timelines have become far too long and as a result fall-throughs are far too common and expensive to consumers and the property industry alike. 

We have created a solution that gives home movers an easy-to-follow digital roadmap to obtain and display as much information as possible – upfront. Making the process faster, more reliable and less stressful.

It is no longer acceptable that our industry makes people wait until the eleventh hour to have access to the information they require. We simply must do better, and Home Sale Pack is the ideal solution based on the decades of ground-level conveyancing experience we have. We aspire to become the industry standard in up-front information to the benefit of everyone involved in the property buying and selling process.”