Andy Carr ensures that all the new build properties have no problems whilst being built, and makes sure that all clients get good value of money. 

"It used to be that any technical problems that needed looked at, for example any building work issues like loose doors, I had to sort out.  However now, I may still go down and see how bad the issue is, but if a builder can sort it out I just let them get on with it, and I will take a record of the problem.

"My team consists of myself and 3 others and we’ve been a team for around 2 years.  Out of the 4 of us, there’s one senior, and 3 technical surveyors.

"I always wanted to be in building work, and I started off with a junior apprenticeship as a plumber in 1973.  Then I just carried on working for the council and I have had many various roles - recently working on the Modern Homes programme for instance - but I have to say I am now very happy working with new build as I find it very exciting and different, because everything is new and modern.  New build really took off last year when we got the money to build those first 33 new bungalows on 3 small sites.

"Since I enjoy what I do, my 37 years of work seems to have flown over!  Here’s a typical day for me..."

7.00am

Arrive at work

7.00-9.00am

Prepare for the day ahead.  I have to return any missed calls, and answer any queries that have been made.  This could be from tenants, building companies or the general public.

9.30-noon

Around this time I go and visit the building sites to see how everything is coming along.  If any builders have any issues, or I see anything I’m not too happy with, this is the time to sort it out.  In the morning time I normally visit the East End of the city – we have quite a few sites in Walker at the moment.

12.30-3.30pm

Now I swap and visit the sites at the West End of the city, so I get to see how the sites like Gosforth and Brunswick are taking shape.  Also any site meetings that I want, or someone wants with me, are organised for when I’m out visiting the sites.  I think it’s important to make sure that I have the time to visit the East End and the West End because then I get to see how all of the sites I cover are progressing.

3.30-5.00pm

It’s coming to the end of my day, so I come back to the office to tidy up paperwork and finish any reports that need doing.  I will also use anything I’ve recorded on my visits from that day, and write them up.  I try to get most of the new information wrote up before I leave, as tomorrow I may take in new information – I have to stay on top of it!

Overall I really enjoy my job, and I love the new challenges it throws at me and I hope I’ve got some more years to add on to my 37 so far!