Mobilisation of Ultra Luxury Residences

Richard Petrik, Head of Mobilisation; Park Modern, London W2

Q: What is property mobilisation, and why is it so important?

Richard Petrik: Property mobilisation is the process of preparing a newly completed building for its residents. It involves everything from final inspections to the installation of essential services and systems. The goal is to ensure the building is not only  functional and compliant with regulations, but also ready to provide a seamless living experience for its new occupants. Effective mobilisation minimises disruptions, enhances resident satisfaction, and ultimately safeguards the developer’s and/or the brand's reputation.

Lobby at 60 Curzon, London W1

Q: Can you walk us through the key steps involved?

RP: There are several crucial steps in the process:

1. Comprehensive Inspections: Before occupancy, the building must undergo thorough inspections to ensure compliance with safety and quality standards. This includes checking structural integrity, electrical systems, and plumbing. Any issues found must be resolved promptly to prevent future inconveniences.

2. Finalising Fit-Outs and Finishes: Aesthetics and functionality are critical, so we ensure interior fit-outs, landscaping, and communal areas are completed and signed off. This meticulous attention to detail in the finishes, such as the flooring and fixtures, significantly impacts residents' perception of quality.

3. Installing Essential Services: The proper installation and activation of services such as water, electricity, gas, and internet are crucial. We coordinate with utility providers to ensure everything is fully operational. Systems such as elevators and security also need to be fully functional for resident convenience and safety.

4. Implementing Safety and Security Measures: Safety is paramount. This involves checking fire safety systems, emergency lighting, and secure access controls. Regular drills and staff training further enhance building safety. A well-prepared on-site team helps manage the transition as residents move in.

5. Resident Engagement: We communicate and provide clear information to residents about moving procedures, building amenities, services and community guidelines. Hosting welcome events and orientation sessions really helps foster a sense of community and belonging among new residents.

6. Stress Testing: Testing and validating the development is an essential step prior to occupation.  It should be us identifying all teething issues, not the end user.  This validation process includes a physical functionality check of all systems and assets, road testing the amenity experiences and a comprehensive walk-through of the operational strategy so any issues can be quickly addressed.

7. Establishing Property Management: A structured property management team is vital for ongoing maintenance and resident support. They oversee all day-to-day operations, ensuring services run smoothly and any issues are addressed efficiently, maintaining the property's quality and value over time.

Pool, Regent's Crescent, London W1

Q: How long does mobilisation typically take?

RP: The mobilisation phase typically commences twelve to eighteen months prior to the first resident moving in, and continues until around six to twelve months post practical completion when we hand over to Rhodium’s on site operation and property management team. 

Q: What challenges do you face during mobilisation?

RP: Mobilisation comes with its own set of challenges. Coordinating multiple stakeholders, managing tight timelines, and ensuring compliance with all regulations requires meticulous planning and execution. We also need to anticipate potential delays and be adaptable in our strategies. 

Q: How does effective mobilisation contribute to the long-term success of a residential development?

RP: It sets the foundation for a thriving community. By ensuring that all systems are functional, services are in place, and residents are well-informed and supported, we create an environment which enhances resident satisfaction, positively impacting the development's long-term reputation and success.

Q: What role do third-party service providers play?

RP: Our trusted third-party service providers are crucial to the process. They bring specialised expertise in areas like inspections, fit-outs, and utility installation. Collaborating with experienced providers helps streamline our processes and ensures high standards are maintained throughout the mobilisation phase.

No.1 Palace St., London SW1

Q: Which schemes are currently mobilising?

RP: Mobilisation has recently completed for a scheme on Porchester Gardens which has just reached practical completion. In addition, we are currently mobilising The Carrington Estate, a super-prime mixed-use scheme in Mayfair, and No.1 Palace Street next to Buckingham Palace.

Q: What does the future hold?

RP: As developments become more complex and resident expectations continue to rise, the mobilisation process will need to adapt. We'll likely see increased use of technology to enhance communication, streamline operations, and improve safety measures. Sustainability will also play a larger role, with a focus on eco-friendly practices and systems. Overall, effective mobilisation will remain a key area of focus for developers looking to deliver successful residential schemes.

Richard Petrik leads Rhodium’s site mobilisation team, focusing on the completion and launch of new developments. He has successfully overseen many of London’s high-profile residential projects, specialising in complex mobilisation and phased completions.