Darren Cardwell
Southam
Summary
Seasoned property professional with over 30 years in domestic building and multi-trade repairs, specialising in kitchens, bathrooms, and UPVC systems. Expertise in defect diagnosis, repair specifications, and contractor oversight. Manages multiple sites, produces precise documentation, and ensures safety compliance while achieving quality repair outcomes.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Locksmith & UPVC Repair Specialist
Unlockey
04.2021 - 01.2025
- Specialised in repairing and maintaining UPVC door and window systems.
- Specialist in opening and repairing jammed locking systems and failed mechanisms.
- Replaced double-glazed units and repaired locking systems to enhance door/window performance and security.
- Inspected and diagnosed UPVC and composite doors/windows to ensure optimal functionality and security.
- Conducted site visits to identify defects, recommended targeted remedial actions to restore systems.
- Worked independently across multiple properties, maintaining accurate job records.
Owner
Evoke Kitchen Design
09.2009 - 12.2024
- Oversaw business management, coordinating operations and resources to optimise performance and facilitate growth.
- Managed full kitchen installations, surveying sites, identifying defects, and overseeing contractors to ensure timely project completion.
- Produced detailed work specifications while ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards to maintain project integrity.
- Project-managed building works and coordinated trades.
- Used AutoCAD and 3DS Max to produce accurate plans and installation layouts.
Subcontract Work
Classic Interiors
01.2021 - 12.2021
Subcontract Work
Loveridge Kitchens & Bathrooms
01.2017 - 12.2018
Owner
Sinks and Appliances (UK)
05.2003 - 04.2009
- Managed customer relationships, budgets, and project delivery.
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring business efficiency.
- Coordinated contractors to ensure installations met required standards, contributing to timely project completion.
- Supplied and installed kitchens and bathrooms nationwide, enhancing customer satisfaction with quality service.
Sole Trader
Cardwell Interiors, Kitchens & Bathrooms
03.1998 - 04.2003
- Provided bespoke home installation services as a sole trader, focusing on client-specific needs.
- Completed full kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom installations, ensuring high customer satisfaction.
- Completed property surveys and produced installation plans.
- Used 20/20 design software to produce detailed 3D plans.
- Collaborated with manufacturers to source and supply quality products for other installers.
Head of Installations
Exclusive Designs Coventry
11.1995 - 02.1998
- Managed installation processes, focusing on quality assurance and operational efficiency throughout projects.
- Led kitchen and bathroom installations, ensuring timely completion and adherence to client specifications.
- Conducted site visits, monitored contractor progress, and enforced quality standards to maintain project integrity.
- Supported the company's expansion into kitchen supply and installation.
Kitchen & Bathroom Installer
J Hackett Kitchens and Bathrooms
06.1992 - 09.1995
- Installed kitchens, bathrooms, and fitted bedroom furniture to meet client specifications and enhance functionality.
- Assisted with planning layouts and ordering materials to ensure timely project delivery and client satisfaction.
- Developed understanding of installation requirements through site surveying to inform accurate project execution.
- Kitchen & Bathroom Installer
Apprenticeship
JC Cardwell
06.1987 - 04.1992
- Completed apprenticeship in construction, obtaining practical experience across multiple trades.
- Developed strong foundations in property repairs, installations, and diagnostics.
- Acquired multi-trade skills in domestic building work, enhancing overall project versatility.
- Assisted trades on site, improving ability to read plans and assess material quantities.
Education
GCSEs - English (B), Maths (B), Geography (C), History (B), Art (C)
Caludon Castle School
CoventrySkills
- UPVC door diagnostics
- UPVC window diagnostics
- UPVC repairs
- Defect diagnosis
- Remedial actions
- Repair specifications
- Progress inspections
- Post-inspections
- Quality control
- Contractor oversight
- Project management
- Budget control
- Site documentation
- Documentation
- Customer liaison
- Communication
- Multi-trade repairs
Custom
- Running
- Strength training
- Reading
- Finance (stocks & shares)
Timeline
Locksmith & UPVC Repair Specialist
Unlockey
04.2021 - 01.2025
Subcontract Work
Classic Interiors
01.2021 - 12.2021
Subcontract Work
Loveridge Kitchens & Bathrooms
01.2017 - 12.2018
Owner
Evoke Kitchen Design
09.2009 - 12.2024
Owner
Sinks and Appliances (UK)
05.2003 - 04.2009
Sole Trader
Cardwell Interiors, Kitchens & Bathrooms
03.1998 - 04.2003
Head of Installations
Exclusive Designs Coventry
11.1995 - 02.1998
Kitchen & Bathroom Installer
J Hackett Kitchens and Bathrooms
06.1992 - 09.1995
Apprenticeship
JC Cardwell
06.1987 - 04.1992
GCSEs - English (B), Maths (B), Geography (C), History (B), Art (C)
Caludon Castle School