Building process

1. Design, feasibility & permits

This phase usually starts with a meeting and an inspection on site for an existing premises. We take measurements, inspect the building, and consider air movement, fire services and accessibility. Through discussions with you we work out what you are looking for in your practice, such as the number of surgeries and other rooms, which leads to a basic plan or functional layout and a report on the suitability of the premises for a practice.

At this point an estimate for the works may be possible, which helps you understand the feasibility of your project. The plans can be reshaped to suit your budget. Some clients like to prepare their own graphics and signage or buy their own furniture, and we work with whatever you are comfortable with, until we reach that exciting point where you say: that is the practice I want.

At the same time, the correct permits need to be in place. Are you able to operate a dental practice in the location? Are there enough parking spaces, or are dispensations required? We can submit the documentation on your behalf and liaise with council. The earlier this is done, the better.

2. Construction documentation

We then enter into a contract for the final design and construction of your new practice. The contract details exactly what we will deliver, and nothing is vague. If it is not documented, it will not be delivered: that is our policy, so you know what you are getting. The contract also contains a high-level project plan with design and construction timing and costings, and you receive our Fit Out Guide, with detailed information on finishes and the build and handover process.

Once the contract is signed, construction documentation includes:

• Government approvals to have a practice in place
• Resolutions to patient accessibility issues, and alternate accessibility plans for staff
• Building permits allowing us to construct
• Detailed surgery designs, including placement of chair services and x-ray arm reach
• Detailed sterilisation design, including cabinetry
• Detailed plumbing layouts: how water moves in and waste moves out
• Detailed electrical layouts, including AS3300 Body Protected Area compliance, lighting, data and communications

In shopping centres we often meet regularly with the leasing agent, retail manager, operations manager and the centre’s designers. We understand how to navigate these bureaucracies.

3. Construction

Construction usually begins with demolition, then concrete chasing, cutting and coring to set up the chair services in the floor. The concrete is pinned and back-filled to create the basic floor level again.

Suspended ceilings usually come next, followed by wall frames, rough-in of plumbing and electrical, insulation and plaster sheeting. The plaster is finished and sanded, and two coats of paint go on.

Then floor preparation in the surgical areas, including the kickers for the cabinetry, and cabinetry installation. After that, the fit-off of all electrics and plumbing, including hot water, system pumps, air conditioning, fire systems, communications and data cabinet, and lighting. Before completion, carpeting and tiling are done and a third and final coat of paint is applied.

4. Practical completion, handover & equipment

The building reaches practical completion and is ready to hand over to you. Together we inspect the premises to make sure everything is in working order and in pristine condition; any defects are noted and documented for follow-up after you take possession.

By then we have already arranged for your equipment to be installed, and we manage that installation for you: chairs, compressors, suction, autoclaves. You can bring in your handpieces, materials and consumables, set up your computers, train your staff, and as soon as your equipment is in, start trading.