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Quality in Construction

A definitive guide to quality assurance, compliance and professional judgement in construction

The Clerk of Works

£75.00Price
Quantity

QUALITY IN CONSTRUCTION • BY KIERAN READ


RAISING THE STANDARD OF CONSTRUCTION QUALITY.


Construction quality is more complex, regulated and scrutinised than ever before. This definitive handbook provides the knowledge, structure and professional judgement required to navigate today's standards, legislation and best practice.


Built on real-world experience and a deep understanding of the Clerk of Works role, it is an essential reference for anyone responsible for ensuring quality and delivering compliance in the built environment.


⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑ Endorsed by leading construction professionals



Suggested Study Structure

The publication may be undertaken as a structured programme of learning, with the following indicative time allocation:

  • Core Principles and Role of the Clerk of Works – 3 hours

  • Regulatory Compliance and Building Regulations – 5 hours

  • Inspection Techniques and Methodologies – 5 hours

  • Defect Identification and Practical Application – 5 hours

  • Reporting, Ethics and Professional Judgement – 2 hours

Illuminated Light Installation
First Edition
Premium Hardback

688 pages

32 structured chapters

20 hrs certified cpd

PROFESSIONALLY DESIGNED

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RAISING THE STANDARD

Construction quality does not happen by accident 

It is the result of informed inspection, disciplined processes and a clear understanding of how buildings are meant to perform. 

Construction quality is more complex, regulated and scrutinised than ever before. This handbook provides the knowledge, structure and professional judgement needed to navigate today's standards, legislation and best practice. 

01 - Identify problems before they escalate

Understand how defects arise and where early intervention matters most. 

02 - Inspect with greater consistency

Apply clear methodology across building elements, trades and project stages. 

03 - Report with confidence

Strengthen professional judgement, evidence and communication. 

written for

The professionals safeguarding construction quality

An essential professional reference for anyone responsible for quality, compliance and project delivery. 

01

Clerk of Works and Construction Inspectors

02

Project Managers and Employer's Agents

03

Client Representatives and Developers

04

Architects and Design Professionals

05

Construction Managers and Site Supervisors 

06

Building Surveyors and Regulatory Professionals

07

Training Providers and Educators

08

Contractors and Quality Assurance Teams

INSIDE THE BOOK

A complete professional reference

Thirty-two structured chapters take the reader from the foundations of the role through practical inspection, technical compliance and advanced professional practice. 

• ​Inspection methodology

• Groundworks & drainage

• Structural works

• MEP Inspections

• Sustainable design

• Quality & tolerances

• Building envelope

• Fire safety and compliance

• Testing and handover

• Building regulations

PRACTICAL, NOT THEORETICAL

Guidance shaped by real construction environments

Each chapter brings technical expectations back to what happens on site: sequencing, workmanship, interfaces, evidence, escalation and the professional judgement needed before work is concealed. 

This handbook explains how small defects can undermine an entire building's performance and how proactive inspection helps prevent rework, test failure, disputes and complaints. 

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FROM THE AUTHOR

Kieran Read CMgr, CBuildE, FICWCI, FCABE

About the book

“This book has been a project of passion and experience, bringing together decades of practical knowledge gained as a Clerk of Works, Chartered Building Engineer and Managing Director of KBR Construction Consultants.

 

My aim was to produce a professional reference that is both informative and practical, combining real-world construction experience with current legislation, standards, inspection techniques and professional judgement. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the book is designed to support those involved in delivering and safeguarding construction quality throughout the building process”

 

Why I wrote the book

“Throughout my career I have often been asked whether there was a single publication that brought together the practical knowledge, inspection techniques and professional judgement expected of a modern Clerk of Works.

The honest answer was "not really."

 

This book was written to help fill that gap by creating a comprehensive reference that practitioners can return to throughout their careers, whether they are new to the profession or highly experienced”

 

Professional legacy

“Looking back over more than four decades within the construction profession, I recognise that my career has evolved in ways I could never have anticipated as a young apprentice. Whilst construction quality assurance has remained the foundation of my professional life, governance, education and the advancement of professional standards have become its natural progression. The greatest satisfaction I now derive from my career comes not simply from successful project delivery, but from helping to strengthen professional standards, support the development of others and contribute to institutions whose purpose extends far beyond any individual project or organisation.

 

I remain committed to lifelong learning, independent judgement and supporting the profession through practical experience, publication and governance, recognising that the most enduring contribution any professional can make is to leave the profession stronger than they found it

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Buy the premium hardback edition directly from KBR
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