About

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Based in Essex, Woodward Building Services Ltd has proudly served London and the wider UK for over 30 years.

We specialise in all aspects of building and electrical works, offering comprehensive solutions tailored to commercial projects. Our reputation is built on a foundation of first-class customer service, reliability, and high-quality workmanship.

At the heart of our business is a dedicated team of skilled, motivated professionals who share a commitment to excellence and a passion for what we do. Together, we strive to uphold our core values and deliver projects that meet the highest industry standards.

Meet the Team

James Lawrence

Senior Managing Director

Read James' Bio

I’m James, director of Woodward Building Services, I’m a trade-led business owner who’s spent over two decades in electrical and building services, starting on the tools and gradually building something bigger with good people around me.

I’ve been in the building industry since I was an electrical apprentice in 2003, learning the job properly from the ground up and working my way through site work, supervision, and eventually business ownership. I’ve never been interested in shortcuts, just doing things right and building something solid.

I went on to set up JJ Lawrence, growing it from a small operation into a business delivering domestic, commercial and industrial electrical work, with teams on the ground and long-term clients. Over the last few years, my role has shifted more into the office, focusing on running the business, supporting the team, and making sure projects and people are looked after properly.

In 2025, JJ Lawrence acquired Woodward Building Services. The aim wasn’t to change what works, but to build on it, bringing good people together, expanding what we offer, and creating a stronger, more complete building services business without losing the values that got us here.

I’m straight talking, hands-on when needed, and big on trust, consistency and long-term relationships. I enjoy connecting with people who care about quality, reliability and working with businesses that stand by their word.

Michael Lowry

Senior Project Manager

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Hi, I’m Michael, and I’m proud to be part of Woodward Building Services, a company built on solid workmanship, clear communication and doing things properly the first time.

Woodward provides a complete building and maintenance service across London and the South East, covering electrical and mechanical works, general building, refurbishments and ongoing maintenance. The aim is simple: be reliable, be responsive and make projects straightforward for clients by offering one point of contact and a team that takes real pride in the work.

What matters to me is how the company operates day to day. Experienced trades, no shortcuts, and a straightforward approach. We’re not about noise or overpromising, just consistent standards, accountability and work we’re happy to stand behind.

Billy Chalmers

Senior Site Manager

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I’m Billy, someone who’s always worked in hands-on, ever-changing industries and I am motivated by getting stuck in and staying up to date with CPD.

My background spans multiple industries including civil engineering, electrical subcontracting and frontline emergency response. In my near 20 year career with Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, where I served as a frontline firefighter with many specialisms I also spent many years working across construction and electrical projects, including long-term subcontracting for JJ Lawrence. I’ve also worked alongside family at Chalmers Fencing, carrying out external and groundwork projects in between shifts.

In 2025, I made the decision to jump full time into the construction sector and begun my current role as a senior site supervisor at Woodward Building Services, bringing together everything I’ve learned from site work, team coordination and high-pressure environments.

I’m practical, like to think on my feet and relish the opportunity to step into new projects, I’m big on reliability and teamwork, and I respect people who enjoy to work hard and take pride in their craft. I enjoy working with new teams, building cohesion and getting the job done right.

Why Choose us?

One call covers all building trades and services.
Complete construction and installation solutions.
Rapid-response maintenance across London and the Southeast.
Nationwide coverage available for larger projects.

Fully insured and members of recognised trade and health & safety bodies.
Free, no-obligation estimates for projects of all sizes.
Dedicated help desk offering free advice and support.