To move forward now we enter into a contract for the final design & construction of your exciting new practice. The contract details exactly what we will deliver – there is nothing vague in what we deliver as everything is clearly documented. If it is not documented, then it will not be delivered is a policy we have to ensure that you know what you will be getting. At this point we go through all the deliverable items together to make sure you are covered. The contract also contains a high level project plan detailing design and construction timing and costings.

You are also given out Fit Out Guide which gives detailed information about finishes and the build and handover process.

Once the contract is signed, we can begin the construction documentation process which includes:

• Governmental approvals to have a practice in place
• Resolutions to patient accessibility issues if required
  Alternate accessibility plans for staff (able bodied or ambulant staff members)
• Detailed construction plans
• Building Permits allowing us to construct
• Detailed surgery designs (including placement of chair services, x-ray arm reach etc)
• Detailed surgery cabinet design
• Reception design
• Detailed sterilisation design including cabinetry
• Detailed plumbing layouts – how we will move water in and waste out of the areas
• Detailed electrical layouts and electrical plans including AS3300 Body Protected Area compliance, lighting, data and communicationWhen all these documents are approved, we can commence construction. Sometimes, in the case of surgeries within shopping centres, we need to have regular meetings with the leasing agent, the retail manager, the operations manager, the shopping centre retail designers (architects) and a host of other people who the shopping centre directs us to deal with. We understand how to navigate through these beaurocracies!

Construction begins usually with demolition works if applicable and then concrete chasing, cutting and coring to set up the chair services in the floor. This stage is naturally called demolition. Then concrete is usually pinned and back filled to create the basic floor level again.

Suspended ceilings are usually next followed by the wall frames. Rough-in of plumbing and electrical takes place next followed by insulation in the walls and then plaster sheeting going in. The plaster sheets are then finished and sanded ready for painting and it is at this point that we generally apply two coats of paint.

Next step is floor preparation works in the surgical areas (including the kickers for the cabinetry) followed by cabinetry installation. This is followed by the fit off of all the electrics and the plumbing including hot water system, system pumps, air conditioning, fire systems, communications and data cabinet and lighting. Prior to completion, carpeting and sundry titling is done and then a third and final coat of paint is applied.

At this point the practice is ready for installation of equipment but most importantly, it is ready for the handover to you.
At this point, an estimate for the works may be able to be provided which is helpful in understanding the feasibility of your project. Depending on the outcome of this, the plans can be reshaped to accommodate your budgetary conditions. Also, some clients like to prepare their own graphics and signage, purchase their own furniture etc and we will work with what you are comfortable with. These matters are considered and other ideas and concepts are added until we together reach that exciting point where you say that is the practice you want.

At the same time, we need to ensure that you have the correct permits in place. Are you able to operate a dental practice in the location, are there enough parking spaces or are dispensations required? We can submit the required documentation on your behalf liaise with council on these matters. The earlier this is done, the better.