Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Trusted Construction and Refurbishment Services in Essex
D C H Construction was founded in 1946 by Duncan Cameron and has grown into a respected construction company specialising in new-build and refurbishment projects across the east of England. Our approach combines traditional masonry with innovative methods like straw bale design and Passivhaus standards, ensuring high-quality, sustainable outcomes. We maintain long-standing relationships with public and private sector clients through a commitment to delivering projects on budget and to exacting standards.Our team prioritises client collaboration, employing rigorous construction methods and meticulous attention to detail, particularly in energy-efficient building practices. We hold ISO certifications and work closely with the Eastern Builders Safety Group to ensure site safety. With project values ranging from small works to 10 million, we combine decades of experience with a forward-thinking approach to meet evolving industry demands.
Services
New-Build Construction
Refurbishment Projects
Passivhaus Standards
Design and Build Contracts
Commercial Construction
Educational Sector Projects
Healthcare Facility Refurbishment
Private Residential Homes
Sustainable Building Solutions
Community Development
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- We have over 75 years of experience in construction and refurbishment projects.
- Our team implements Passivhaus standards for energy-efficient buildings.
- We are ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified for quality and environmental management.
- We prioritise client collaboration and transparent communication.
- We use local subcontractors to support community engagement.
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
- ISO 14001
- Constructionline
Services
New-Build Construction
D C H Construction specialises in new-build developments ranging from private residential homes to large-scale community projects. Our expertise includes traditional masonry and innovative methods like straw bale design. We adhere to rigorous standards, including Passivhaus principles, to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability. Clients benefit from our collaborative approach, which aligns project outcomes with local needs and budgetary requirements.
Refurbishment Projects
We deliver comprehensive refurbishment solutions for educational, healthcare, and commercial properties. Our work includes internal and external upgrades while maintaining operational continuity in sensitive environments like care homes. By combining modern techniques with heritage preservation, we enhance functionality and extend building lifespans. Clients receive tailored plans that balance cost-effectiveness with long-term value.
Passivhaus Standards
Our Passivhaus-certified projects achieve exceptional energy efficiency through airtight construction, thermal insulation, and advanced ventilation systems. This approach reduces energy consumption by up to 90% compared to traditional buildings. We work closely with clients to integrate these standards into residential, educational, and commercial developments, ensuring comfort, sustainability, and compliance with future-ready regulations.
Design and Build Contracts
DCH offers end-to-end Design and Build contracts, combining architectural creativity with construction expertise. This streamlined approach ensures seamless project delivery from concept to completion. Clients benefit from fixed budgets, reduced timelines, and a single point of accountability. Our collaborative process encourages client input while maintaining strict quality and cost controls.
Sustainable Building Solutions
We integrate sustainability into every project through fabric-first design, renewable energy systems, and eco-friendly materials. Initiatives include solar panels, air-source heat pumps, and biodiversity enhancements like bat and bird boxes. Our electric vehicle fleet and site recycling programs further reduce environmental impact. These measures align with government decarbonisation targets while delivering long-term cost savings for clients.
People
Steve Last
Director
Steve Last brings over 30 years of construction industry experience to DCH, overseeing project delivery and strategic growth. His expertise spans commercial and residential sectors, with a focus on client relationship management.
Michael Porter
Project Manager
Michael Porter manages complex construction projects, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards. He holds a degree in Construction Management and specialises in Passivhaus-certified developments.
Neil Coy
Contracts Manager
Neil Coy oversees contract negotiations and site operations, with a focus on health and safety compliance. He has managed large-scale refurbishment projects for local authorities and healthcare providers.
Matt Porter
Quantity Surveyor
Matt Porter specialises in cost management and value engineering for construction projects. His work ensures financial efficiency without compromising quality, particularly in public sector developments.
Ray Murdoch-Eaton
Site Manager
Ray Murdoch-Eaton leads on-site teams, ensuring construction processes meet technical and safety standards. With 25 years in the field, he focuses on maintaining consistent team presence and client communication.
Questions
What sectors does DCH Construction specialise in?
We work across housing associations, private residential, education, healthcare, industrial, and commercial sectors, delivering both new-build and refurbishment projects.
Are DCH Construction projects compliant with sustainability standards?
Yes. We build to Passivhaus standards, use renewable energy systems, and implement recycling initiatives to meet decarbonisation targets and reduce environmental impact.
Can DCH Construction provide client references?
Yes. We regularly share references and project profiles, including work for Cambridge City Council and Uttlesford District Council.
How does DCH manage budgets and costs?
We use value engineering tailored to each project, identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality or long-term durability.
Do you offer post-completion support?
Yes. Our dedicated aftercare team provides maintenance packages and a single point of contact during the defects liability period.
How does DCH engage with local communities?
We maintain open dialogue through meetings, site notices, and creative initiatives like school competitions to foster trust and reduce disruption.
