Planning a new build? Build with more certainty

"We like to contribute our expertise already during the design phase"

says Henny. "The decisions you take when constructing a new greenhouse or extending your existing buildings have a significant impact on the quality of these structures. Make sure you are well informed before construction starts."

"Identifying potential risks at an early stage will prevent any unpleasant surprises afterwards."

- Henny Biemans, risk expert greenhouse horticulture

Critical look at design and installations

Several quotations are usually obtained for new build projects. Hagelunie does not compare prices, but through your broker, we can critically assess any technical choices that may impact on the quality and operational reliability. This includes:

• the choice of screens;
• the type of climate control units;
• the type of lighting and its distance from the screens;
• the installation and accessibility of transformer stations;
• the chosen glass size and its implications for repairs following damage.
• how extensions are joined to existing buildings.

Henny Biemans provides technical advice and risk assessment to support greenhouse growers with new build and expansion projects.

Which systems do you choose today and are they future-proof?

Hagelunie can also advise you about this. Energy supplies are playing an increasingly important role in greenhouse horticulture. "For companies with a lot at stake, providing a certain degree of redundancy, or a backup facility, is often sensible," says Henny. "For example, emergency backup facilities for critical installations or components. Thanks to our expertise, we can provide valuable input."

Damage during construction can cause delays.

This may mean that a growing cycle starts later than anticipated. The consequence can be lost turnover, while your financial obligations, such as loans and investments, still have to be met. In many cases, you can insure this risk. Together with your broker, you can assess which insurance solution best suits your construction project and the associated risks.

Insurance during the build

Ask your broker which insurance solution best suits your specific situation. There are various options:

1. The contractor arranges insurance
The contractor takes out an ABR policy (Contractors' All Risk insurance) and is responsible for insurance during construction.

2. You take out an ABR policy
You can also take out insurance for the construction period yourself.

3. You take out extension insurance or CAR (Construction All Risk) cover from Hagelunie
Extension cover provides insurance for an extension of your company during construction.

Building plans? Let us help you prepare properly.

Would you like your broker and Hagelunie to help monitor the preparations? It is helpful to provide us with the following information:

• quotes from contractors;
• structural calculations of the substructure, facades, roof and glass;
• CASTA calculations and Glazen Stad (Glass City) calculations, if available;
• construction drawings and an overview of the installation and equipment;
• specifications of lighting and climate control systems;
• information about the desired glass size;
• plans for joining extensions to existing buildings;
• choices regarding construction and crop insurance.

Technical supervision during and after construction

You may also have questions or uncertainties during construction. In that case, your broker and Hagelunie can investigate what support is needed. Once the project has been completed, we perform a final inspection before the new greenhouse or extension is formally signed off. Henny: "During this inspection, we assess whether the construction and installations comply with the set requirements and conditions. That gives the grower, and us, greater security for the future."

A new-build project is a significant investment. By discussing your plans with your broker at an early stage, we can advise you on the risks, the technical aspects that need attention and the insurability of the structure. This is how we work together to create a future-proof, well-insured company.