42 answers
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers on pricing, process and the practical realities of building in Cumbria.
Quotations & pricing
Initial site visits and written quotations within Cumbria are normally provided without charge. Where a project requires measured survey or design work before it can be priced, that is explained and agreed beforehand.
Project process
A short conversation to understand the project, then a site visit to look at access, levels and ground conditions, followed by a written price setting out scope, inclusions and exclusions.
Groundworks
Everything between a bare site and a structure that can be built on: clearance, setting out, excavation, spoil handling, foundations, below-ground drainage, service ducts, floor slabs and external hard surfaces.
Drainage
Yes — foul and surface water drainage, soakaways, land drainage, treatment plants and septic systems, plus repairs to failed or collapsed runs.
Foundations
Strip, trench-fill, pad and reinforced foundations, plus foundation blockwork up to damp proof course, built to the engineer's or building control's requirements.
Masonry
Yes. Groundworks, foundations, drainage, structural blockwork, brickwork, stonework and steel installation can be delivered through a single point of responsibility.
Steel
Yes. SHS installs beams, columns and frames to an independent structural engineer's design, including temporary propping, padstones, bearings and rebuilding masonry around the steel.
Extensions & new builds
SHS covers groundworks, foundations, drainage, slab, structural masonry and steel through to weathertight shell, and coordinates with other trades. Scope is agreed in writing at pricing stage.
Agricultural & rural
Yes. Rural and agricultural work is a core part of SHS's activity, including restricted-access sites, off-mains drainage and long service runs.
Radon
Yes. Radon-resistant membranes, sealed detailing, sumps and ventilated subfloor arrangements are installed where building regulations require protective measures.
Areas covered
Cumbria and surrounding areas, including Penrith, Carlisle, Kendal, Keswick, Appleby, Kirkby Stephen, Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, the Eden Valley, the South Lakes, West Cumbria and the Lake District.
Next step
Planning a project in Cumbria?
Tell SHS what you are building, repairing or preparing. Upload photographs, drawings or plans and the project can be reviewed before a site visit is arranged.