What to expect

Your Capital Works Journey

To help you understand what the different capital works involve, we’ve outlined the typical journey for each below.

Your individual letter will confirm which of these improvements are scheduled for your property.

Bathroom

Step 1: Preparation and Protection
We begin by protecting your furniture and flooring to keep your home clean and safe throughout the works.

Step 2: Removal of Old Bathroom
Your existing bathroom will be carefully removed to make way for the new installation.

Step 3: Electrical Work
Our team will carry out any necessary electrical upgrades to support your new fixtures and ensure modern standards.

Step 4: Plumbing Installation
We’ll install the required plumbing, including copper piping if needed, to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Step 5: Wall Preparation
Walls will be skimmed and given a first coat of paint to create a smooth and refreshed surface.

Step 6: Fitting Your New Bathroom
Your new bathroom fixtures and fittings will be professionally installed according to your planned layout.

Step 7: Tiling and Flooring
We’ll tile around your bath and washbasin as needed, and lay down new flooring for a clean, updated finish.

Step 8: Painting and Finishing Touches
Your bathroom will be decorated in your chosen colour — white or magnolia — with a focus on neatness and detail.

Step 9: Final Clean
The team will complete the finishing touches and thoroughly clean the area so it’s ready for everyday use.

Step 10: Quality Check
A team member will visit to inspect the work and ensure you're fully satisfied with the completed upgrade.

Kitchen

Step 1: Preparation and Removal
Our electrician will attend to lock off the kitchen electrics safely. The team will then remove your old kitchen while leaving a temporary sink for convenience.

Step 2: Electrical First Fix
The electrician will return to carry out the initial electrical rewire (known as the 1st fix), preparing the setup for new appliances and lighting.

Step 3: Wall Preparation
A skilled plasterer will apply fresh plaster as needed, creating a smooth surface ready for painting and cabinetry.

Step 4: Fitting Your New Kitchen
Once plaster is dry, our kitchen fitter/joiner will install your new kitchen and complete any related joinery to ensure everything fits perfectly.

Step 5: Electrical Second Fix
The electrician will revisit to complete the 2nd fix — installing sockets, switches, and lighting to bring the kitchen to life.

Step 6: Painting and Decorating
Our decorator will paint the walls, ceiling, skirting boards, and the kitchen-facing side of the internal door in your chosen finish, focusing on neatness and detail.

Step 7: Flooring Installation
A new floor will be installed by our expert floor layer, providing a fresh, clean foundation to complement your new kitchen.

Step 8: Finishing and Inspection
Our finisher will seal and tidy all surfaces, making sure every detail shines. The Site Manager will then conduct a thorough inspection to ensure the work meets our high standards — and your complete satisfaction.

Gas Heating / Boilers

Step 1: Survey Appointment
A Surveyor will contact you to schedule a visit for a central heating survey.

Step 2: Survey Assessment
The Surveyor will determine whether a Combi Boiler or a Full Heating System is required. They will also advise if carpet rolling is needed to prepare for the installation.

Step 3: Installation Date
An installation date will be arranged according to your needs:
- Combi Boiler installation typically takes 1 day.
- Full Heating System installation usually takes 2 days.

Step 4: Asbestos Removal
If asbestos is identified in your asbestos report, it will be removed safely on the day of installation.

Step 5: Heat and Smoke Detectors
New heat and smoke detectors may also be installed on the same day to meet modern safety standards.

Step 6: Completion and Explanation
Once installation is complete, your Heating Engineer will explain how to operate your new heating system and walk through the key settings.
Please note: floorboards may be removed, and there will be no heating or hot water during installation. Fortem is not responsible for repairing any floor coverings or carpets affected by the works.

Windows and Doors

Your Retrofit Journey

To help you understand what the different retrofit works involve, we’ve outlined the typical journey for each below.

Your individual letter will confirm which of these improvements are scheduled for your property.

Loft Insulation

Air Source Heat Pumps

Solar Panels

External Wall Insulation

Ventilation

Step 1: Survey Appointment
A Surveyor will contact you to schedule a visit to assess your home’s ventilation and mould concerns.

Step 2: Survey Assessment
The Surveyor will determine which measures are needed—such as extractor fans, trickle vents, door undercuts, or mould treatment. They will also advise on access requirements.

Step 3: Installation Date
An installation date will be arranged according to your needs.

  • Extractor fan installation typically takes a few hours.
  • Full ventilation and mould works may take 1–2 days.

Step 4: Ventilation Works
Works may include installing extractor fans, fitting trickle vents, trimming doors for airflow, and treating mould. All measures will be explained to you during installation.

Step 5: Safety and Access
Toilet and wash basin facilities will be available each evening. If water or power needs to be turned off, you’ll be given plenty of notice.

Step 6: Completion and Explanation
Once installation is complete, your Ventilation Engineer will explain how to use your new ventilation system and ensure everything is working properly.

Please note: some drilling, cutting, and low-level noise may occur during installation. Fortem is not responsible for repairing any decorative finishes, flooring, or wall coverings affected by the works