Preferred Status and national installer network

Major housebuilder, Persimmon, has conferred 'preferred supplier status' on Duraflex.

Major housebuilder, Persimmon, has conferred 'preferred supplier status' on Duraflex, and with this our profiles have taken a significant step forward in terms of widespread acceptance in the housebuilding market.

Immediate benefits to both parties are economies of scale and consistency of quality across the Persimmon Group, whilst giving Persimmon's regions a wider option of using either a national or local installer.

This ties in well with the nationwide network of 20 Duraflex installers whose proven operational practices meet the high standards we demand, so we can confidently let them recommend and install windows using our profiles on new build housing projects.

The network spans the whole of England and Scotland and the companies involved had to complete an in-depth questionnaire to qualify.

The seriousness with which we take our responsibilities in this context is borne out by our having worked closely with Persimmon in formulating every question on the form.

It goes without saying, therefore, that at no time has the Old Pals Act played a role.

Concern for our reputation wouldn't allow it and nor would Persimmon! Key to acceptance has been the proviso that any installer applying for approval has had to provide a reference contact at one of the UK's Top Twenty housebuilders.

It goes without saying that the contact has to operate at a level of authority to satisfy us the reference is valid.

We take up the reference in every instance and this has, in fact, resulted in some applicants not being accepted onto the scheme.

Not only that, but a sample copy of a site audit for safety visits has to be supplied, as does a copy of a current HandS policy document.

In fact, verifiable documentation is required at almost every turn.

For example, copies of CSCS cards, training matrices, method statements and completed risk assessments, and customer care policies are all required in advance of any application even being considered.

In the meantime, whilst the documentation is vital, on-site practice is of equal importance.

Hence, it is essential installation techniques are monitored to check how they measure up to the professed installer training; then there is the level of personal safety equipment operatives wear on site and their overall awareness of health and safety throughout the installation period.

This thorough vetting process gives everyone from architects, designers, and estimators to project managers - confidence in the professionalism of scheme members, whilst we remain confident they won't let us down.

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