Strata Building - Building Diagnostics, Remedial & Regulated Designs & Project Management
“Hydromedial Consulting Group
4/11/2024
I have been an owner and strata committee member of a 104 unit complex in Glebe NSW for over 15 years. During this time there have been many water ingress issues that were traced back to poor construction practices in the 1990s when the development was built. Over the years, the committee engaged various engineers, builders and contractors to try to solve a myriad of water ingress issues. At best, there were mixed results with this approach. At worst, money was spent [wasted] without solving the underlying causes of the problem.
About 3 years ago, the committee had to find a better approach to fixing problems because the continuing water ingress issues were causing degradation of the building including corrosion of structural concrete. At this time, the committee engaged Hydromedial Consulting Group [HCG] to carry out a comprehensive survey with a view to identifying the root causes of the water ingress that was resulting in consequential damage. HCG’s methodical approach, coupled with their experience, expertise and comprehensive documentation, proved decisive.
Once the root causes were identified, HCG was retained to do the detailed design and specification, cost estimates and tender assessment. HCG continued with the implementation phase of the work to do the project management and quality inspections of the contractor’s work.
At first, I felt the cost of engaging HCG was high in proportion to the cost of the total project. However, I now understand that by integrating HCG into the whole process, start to finish pays significant dividends in the form of risk management, quality of work, and importantly, it provided lasting solutions to what had been intractable problems.
I would not hesitate to recommend HGC to other strata committees with waterproofing and water ingress issues.
Yours faithfully
Robert Baker”
Strata Building - Building Diagnostics, Remedial & Regulated Designs & Project Management
” An Owners Corporation in our portfolio facing significant remedial works to correct original construction deficiencies engaged with Hydromedial to guide them through the lengthy process of determining and implementing the reconstruction of a continuously occupied residential building. Numerous complexities arose over the year of site works and Hydromedial responded to the consequential challenges very proactively. The original construction deficiencies were primarily about waterproofing, but the Hydromedial team led by Karl van Hoogenvest and Mark Bradbury stepped up with contributions of; Expert Witness reports in Legal Actions undertaken by the Owners Corporation; identifying through Tender, engaging and supervising a very competent contractor; rapid resolution of a latent flammable cladding issue within the broader contract scope and the necessary liaison with local authorities; thorough documentation and reporting of project progress and the not infrequent, unexpected latent or hidden issues that required quick, well-reasoned responses from all contributors. The Owners Corporation is broadly happy to have Hydromedial travelling this journey with them.”
Tony Reif
Strata Building - Building Diagnostics, Remedial & Regulated Designs & Project Management
” We went to Hydromedial to find the source of the water ingress in our home. We then engaged them to project manage the resulting works to fix the issues. At all stages, they were communicative, thorough and clear. They presented multiple solutions to our problems – allowing us to weigh up what worked best within our budget and time constraints. We had complete faith in their knowledge and high standards for the work’s completion. We cannot recommend Hydromedial highly enough “.
Lisa”.
Strata Building - Building Diagnostics, Remedial & Regulated Designs & Quantity Estimating
14 January 2025
To whom It May Concern,
I am writing to provide a reference for Hydromedial Consulting Group (HCG) in relation to their outstanding work on the project at a property managed by BCS Strata at Tuncurry NSW 2428. The project aimed to address and rectify persistent water ingress issues affecting the building, which required detailed inspections, accurate diagnosis, and the development of an effective rectification plan.
From the outset, HCG demonstrated exceptional capability in diagnosing building issues and identifying the root causes of the water ingress problems. Their thorough inspections and meticulous attention to detail ensured that no potential issue was overlooked, and their expertise was evident in their presentation to Owners at meetings to which they agreed to attend and the accuracy of their findings.
The quality of HCG’s documentation has been exemplary. They have provided comprehensive and clear reports that have been invaluable in understanding the issues and the proposed solutions. Their documentation has been both detailed and accessible, making it easy for all stakeholders to grasp the complexities involved.
HCG’s management and communication throughout the works to date have been of the highest standard. They have maintained consistent and transparent communication with all parties involved, ensuring that everyone is kept informed of progress and any developments. Their proactive approach to problem-solving and their willingness to engage with the owners has fostered a collaborative and productive working environment.
One of the most significant benefits of working with HCG has been their ability to simplify the process for both myself and the owners. By acting as a ‘one stop shop’ for consulting and management, HCG has taken much of the complexity out of the project. They have coordinated all aspects of the work seamlessly, allowing the owners and myself to focus on other priorities, confident that the project is in capable hands.
In conclusion, Hydromedial Consulting Group has been excellent in all aspects of their work on the project. Their expertise, quality of documentation, effective management, and communication have been invaluable. They have truly made the process straightforward and manageable for everyone involved. I highly recommend HCG for any consulting and management needs.
Yours sincerely
Christine Clair
Licensed Strata Managing Agent
Team Leader – Forster/Tuncurry & Nelson Bay Branch
Strata Building - Fire Order Management, Consultant & Council Coordination
Reference for Hydromedial Consulting Group
As a member of the Strata Committee of a residential strata complex in the Manly area, I have had the opportunity to work closely with Hydromedial Consulting Group (HCG) over the past few years on two major projects undertaken by our Owners Corporation.
The first project involved significant remedial works to our building, during which HCG, through Project Managers Karl van Hoogenvest and Mark Bradbury, provided comprehensive project management services. Their involvement included liaising with our solicitors, coordinating with builders, overseeing all aspects of the project, and maintaining clear and regular communication with the Committee to ensure a successful outcome.
The second project involved a Fire Upgrade Order issued by Northern Beaches Council. Once again, Karl and Mark demonstrated exceptional professionalism and technical knowledge by engaging the necessary consultants and professionals to develop several viable alternative solutions to the fire audit requirements. Their strategic approach significantly reduced the overall cost burden on owners while maintaining compliance and safety standards.
Throughout both projects, HCG consistently demonstrated:
- An ability to identify and manage all potential impacts and risks, including those related to people, the building, local authorities, design, and contractual matters.
- A deep knowledge of construction methods, as well as electrical and fire design principles.
- Excellent communication and documentation processes, ensuring all stakeholders were fully informed at every stage.
- The capacity to simplify complex issues through clear, practical communication.
- Strong experience in contract management and project delivery.
- A high level of dedication to each project’s progress, quality, and successful completion.
Based on my experience, I have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Hydromedial Consulting Group for any project you may be considering. Their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to client outcomes are of the highest standard.
Garth Smith
Manly, NSW
