Weekly News - 19th June 2021
In your weekly PCA update this week:
- Waterproofing Treatments and Cavity Wall Insulation
- Network Rail wrongly claiming PCA approval
- CITB Levy Rates Consensus
- EU Glyphosate Review
- Next Webinar: Wood destroying fungi
- PR Programme Update
- Contracting & Client Relationship Workshop
- Support for Members
Waterproofing Treatments and Cavity Wall Insulation
A report from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), looking at the prospect of using waterproofing products to allow cavity wall insulation to be installed in areas exposed to wind driven rain, shows the virtues of these products as well as dispel a few misconceptions.
The report shows some very interesting results which members can read by clicking on the button below…
Click to Read More >>
Network Rail wrongly claiming PCA approval
We were alerted this week to an item on ‘Teeside Live’ which reported an award of damages (£15K) against Network Rail in relation to Japanese knotweed affecting one of their trackside neighbours. Not really news to us but what grabbed our attention was Network Rail’s response which stated that their “guidelines for the treatment of Japanese Knotweed have been approved by the Property Care Association”.
For the benefit of doubt the PCA has made no such approval of their guidelines. Although we have co-operated when asked for assistance, we have taken great care to clearly state our reservations about their policies and processes (internal documents, not in the public domain) for invasive weed management which are not based on our Code of Practice and do not make provision for qualified surveyors/technicians to carry out the works.
We have asked Network Rail to explain their position and for assurances this won’t happen again. If any of our members notice any similar claims appearing in the news or via social media please let us know as we take any and all mis-appropriations of the PCA name (brand) very seriously indeed.
Click to Read More >>
CITB Levy Rates Consensus
Following confirmation that CITB’s Levy Rates will remain the same for 2022-2025, they are now proceeding with their Consensus (postponed last year due to the pandemic). From Monday 14 June to Sunday 15 August, they will be seeking industry-wide views on their Consensus proposals and whether there is ‘agreement that our proposals are necessary to encourage adequate training in our industry over the next three years’.
Your Association has shared many blogs with members on our growing frustration with CITB and we will certainly have our say at our next meeting in a few weeks time. We will also update members on the outcome of this consensus too, which members can read about via the button below.
Click for more info >>
EU Glyphosate Review
The subject of glyphosate always grabs the headlines and captures our attention. EU approvals for glyphosate ‘run-out’ at the end of 2022 and as much as the UK approvals process is now separate from the EU, the scientific assessment of the evidence has now completed its first stage.
The conclusions are clear and consistent; based on the science/evidence the panel recommend the continued approval of glyphosate with no significant changes to labelling or use guidelines.
Whilst it is reassuring to know that glyphosate has cleared the first hurdle, we should all be aware that there are many more steps in the approval process to be completed before specific proposals are put before the EU parliament. We will keep you all informed as the review progresses, but for now you can view the published conclusions via the button below.
Click to Read More >>
Next Webinar: Wood Destroying Fungi in Buildings
Following what was Part One from James’ webinar on wood-destroying insects, your CEO continues the theme in ONE WEEKS time with ‘Wood Destroying fungi in Buildings’.
Join Steve Hodgson on Thursday 24th June 2021 from 9-10am as he discusses the common forms of fungal decay affecting buildings and how types of fungi such as dry rot and wet rot become established, spread, and degrade our homes and buildings…
To join, simply click on the button below.
Click to Register Now >>
Contracting & Client Relationship Workshop
Contracting & Client Relationship Workshop
Date:14th July 2021
Location: PCA Training Centre, Huntingdon
Cost: Members £195 +VAT / Non-members £250 +VAT
>> Need more information on the course – click here
This course is ideal for those who routinely deal with main contractors and quantity surveyors and offers invaluable information you can use to self-check your in-house procedures. It will particularly benefit small and medium sized companies who may lack the experience or expertise to effectively manage works to ensure they deliver on contractual obligations.
Contact the training team today on 01480 400000, or email [email protected].
Get in Touch! >>
Support for Members
Members will be aware that the current Covid-19 restrictions are likely to remain in place until 19th July and are reminded of the steps and guidance to follow, which includes:
There is still plenty of support available for PCA members via the Government’s website, which can be accessed via the button below.
Click for more info >>
Remember to keep in the loop…
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