InSite | How to get the most out of the Technical Manual

How to get the most out of the Technical Manual

The Premier Guarantee Technical Manual is a useful tool for developers and builders. It identifies the technical requirements applicable to the design and construction of buildings. If you’re new to the manual or just want to find out more about how it can help you, then you’ll find answers to our most asked questions below.

 

What is the Technical Manual?

 

The Premier Guarantee Technical Manual sets out the Functional Requirements for the design and construction of buildings covered under our warranties (see below for more about Functional Requirements). It has been written by our in-house Technical Team and includes supporting guidance which can be used as a means to meet the Functional Requirements. The guidance includes information, diagrams and data tables to help all parties understand what is needed throughout each of the stages of construction in order to meet warranty standards. Alternative solutions can be used to those in the guidance as long as the completed work satisfies the Functional Requirements.

 

How will it benefit me?

 

It’s best to get things right from the start. Everyone wants to avoid high costs and delays that can occur when defects are discovered later on down the line. Using the Technical Manual will ensure that high standards are met from the beginning and throughout the build to save you time and money and to ensure high-quality homes are constructed for homeowners.

 

What information does the Technical Manual contain?


The manual is broken up into sections covering:

  • Ground Conditions
  • Basements
  • Foundations
  • Ground floors
  • Drainage
  • External walls
  • Internal walls
  • External windows and doors
  • Stairs
  • Upper floors
  • Roofs
  • Roofs terraces and balconies 
  • Chimneys and flues
  • Driveways and paving
  • Heating services
  • Ventilation and extraction
  • Electrical services
  • Cold water supply
  • Garages
  • Tolerances

 

You’ll also benefit from four appendices which provide specific information on requirements for products and systems, work in coastal locations, finishes and guidance for conversions and refurbishments.

 

What flexibility does it offer?

 

We pride ourselves in offering flexible solutions to meet warranty requirements, and although there is substantial guidance within the manual, flexibility can still be maintained. The guidance supporting the Functional Requirements is not prescriptive but should be treated as best practice. Alternative solutions to those in the guidance can be used as long as the completed work meets the Functional Requirements and has been agreed with the warranty surveyor prior to construction.

 

What are the Functional Requirements?

 

In order to achieve warranty standards, Functional Requirements must be complied with. For ease of use, they are provided at the start of each section of the manual and are fundamental in all cases to achieve warranty standards. They are broken into three areas:

 

  • workmanship
  • materials
  • design

 

 

How do I get a copy?

 

You can sign up to receive the Technical Manual. You’ll be given options to download or view an online version. There is also a handy user guide to help you understand the layout and updates to requirements.

 

Tips to getting even more from the Technical Manual:

 

1. Print out drawings, diagrams and tables. The electronic version of the Technical Manual is great for quick referencing but we recommend printing out A4 versions of drawings whenever needed onsite.

 

2. We frequently publish technical update blogs which expand on some of the topics covered in our manual. Keep checking InSite for the latest posts or sign up to receive our blog round-up email.

 

Ready to start a conversation with Premier Guarantee? Get in touch with our sales team in your area today.

 

Please note: if you’re proposing the use of innovative/modern methods of construction (MMC) for your project you must contact us before placing an order so you can be sure the proposal will be acceptable.

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