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Latest News on EWS1 Progress and Cladding Renewal

Latest News on EWS1 Progress and Cladding Renewal

Introduction

The ongoing efforts to address cladding issues in residential buildings have seen significant progress, particularly with the involvement of government-appointed contractors. This blog post highlights the latest developments in the EWS1 (External Wall System) progress and cladding renewal, using two specific properties as examples: Hippersley Point in London and Vantage Quay in Manchester.

Key Updates on EWS1 Forms

Updated EWS1 Form and RICS Guidance

On March 16, 2022, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), UK Finance, and the Building Societies Association (BSA) updated the EWS1 form. This update includes references to the PAS 9980:2022 guidance and allows those who have completed the EWS1 Assessment Training Programme to complete the form. The form is now electronic, making it more accessible and includes version control to ensure up-to-date information 

1  RICS strongly recommends uploading completed EWS1 forms to the FIA portal to avoid duplication 

Government Announcements and Interventions

The UK government has made several significant announcements regarding cladding and EWS1 forms. Notably, leaseholders in buildings over 11 meters will not have to pay for cladding costs, and EWS1 forms should not be requested for buildings below 18 meters 

3   Additionally, the government will cover the removal of unsafe cladding for all leaseholders in buildings over 18 meters. These measures aim to alleviate the financial burden on leaseholders and streamline the remediation process.

Declining Relevance of EWS1 Forms

As more fire risk assessments are carried out under PAS 9980, the need for EWS1 forms is expected to decrease. The government has also intervened in the insurance market, launching a Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII) Scheme to increase the number of professionals able to complete external wall assessments. This intervention is set to close on October 30, 2023, as the market has responded positively, making the scheme no longer necessary. 

Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS)

The Cladding Safety Scheme, also known as the Medium Rise Scheme, was fully opened in July 2023. This scheme is part of the broader effort to address cladding issues in medium-rise buildings. As of January 2024, 495 buildings 11 meters and over in height have live applications with the CSS and are progressing through eligibility checks 

Building Safety Fund and Remediation Progress

The Building Safety Fund (BSF) continues to support the removal and replacement of unsafe cladding. As of January 2024, 246 high-rise buildings have started remediation works, and 250 have completed remediation on unsafe non-ACM cladding. Overall, 1,686 buildings have either started or completed remediation works, with 815 buildings having completed the process 

Local Authority Enforcement

Local authorities are actively enforcing building safety regulations. As of January 2024, enforcement action has been taken against 293 high-rise buildings with unsafe cladding under the Housing Act 2004.

WhenFresh National Cladding Dataset

Property for sale by Auction A building under construction features patches of insulation and multiple purple balconies. Some balconies have furniture, plants, and household items. The base of the building is visible with trees in the foreground, highlighting the latest news on EWS1 progress and cladding renewal efforts. Presented by World of Auctions
A building under improvement works features patches of insulation and multiple purple balconies. Some balconies have furniture, plants, and household items. The base of the building is visible with trees in the foreground, highlighting the latest news on EWS1 progress and cladding renewal efforts. Presented by World of Auctions 

The WhenFresh National Cladding Dataset, launched in February 2023, has expanded to cover over 1.2 million dwellings. This live dataset is updated monthly and provides detailed information on the cladding status of individual properties 

The dataset shown in link 13 above. Categorizes buildings into GREEN (no cladding), AMBER (potential cladding, merits inspection), and RED (has cladding) statuses 

FIA Portal for EWS1 Forms

The Fire Industry Association (FIA) has created a portal for EWS1 forms, providing a central, accessible location for these documents. This portal aims to eliminate fraudulent forms and streamline the process for buyers, sellers, valuers, lenders, and insurers. 

Government-Led Remedial Work

Both Hippersley Point and Vantage Quay are currently undergoing remedial work managed by government-appointed contractors. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure the safety and compliance of residential buildings with fire safety standards.

Hippersley Point, Abbey Wood, London

Hippersley Point, a relatively new construction just eight years old, is located in Abbey Wood, London. The property is undergoing significant remedial work to address cladding issues, ensuring it meets the required safety standards. This work is crucial for the safety of residents and the overall integrity of the building.

Vantage Quay, Manchester

Similarly, Vantage Quay in Manchester is also under the care of government-appointed contractors for remedial work. This property, a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment with a balcony, is part of the ongoing efforts to replace unsafe cladding and ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

Importance of EWS1 Forms

The EWS1 form is a critical document for buildings with cladding, as it certifies that the external wall system has been assessed for fire safety by a qualified professional. The progress in obtaining these forms is essential for property transactions and the peace of mind of residents.

Market Implications

The ongoing remedial work and the issuance of EWS1 forms have significant implications for the property market. Properties like Hippersley Point and Vantage Quay are available for sale by auction, and the completion of cladding renewal can influence their market value and buyer interest.

Auction Details

– **Hippersley Point**: This property is available for sale by auction and is located moments away from Abbey Wood Station, providing a direct link to Central London via the Elizabeth line.

2-Bed Leasehold Apt, Hippersley Point, Abbey Wood, Auction

68 Vantage Quay, M1 2ER – Investment Apartment for Sale

Conclusion

The progress in EWS1 certification and cladding renewal is a positive step towards ensuring the safety and marketability of residential properties. Government-appointed contractors are playing a crucial role in these efforts, as seen in the examples of Hippersley Point and Vantage Quay. As these projects advance, they not only enhance safety but also restore confidence in the property market.

Stay tuned for more updates on EWS1 progress and cladding renewal efforts across the UK.

https://www.rics.org/news-insights/current-topics-campaigns/fire-safety/cladding-external-wall-system-ews-faqs