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Ensuring Fire Safety: An Overview of EWS Assessments in London Pinner
Thursday 21st December 2023
Introduction:
In the wake of the tragic Grenfell Tower disaster in 2017, new regulations were introduced to enhance fire safety measures, particularly regarding cladding in residential and commercial properties. As a building surveying consultancy based in London Pinner, we at Tayross Associates are proud to announce that we have recently become registered EWS (External Wall System) assessors. Below, we aim to shed light on the EWS assessments, their importance, and the process involved.
Understanding EWS Assessments:
The EWS assessment is a crucial step in evaluating the fire safety of buildings, specifically focusing on the presence of combustible materials in the external wall system. The assessment assigns a rating to each building, determining whether any remedial works are required. The ratings are categorised into two options: Option A and Option B.
Option A:
Under Option A, there are three possible ratings:
1. Option A1: This rating indicates that none of the cladding in the building contains significant amounts of combustible material. In such cases, no further action or remedial works are necessary.
2. Option A2: A rating of A2 signifies that a risk assessment has been conducted, confirming that no remedial measures are required. This assessment provides assurance that the building's external wall system is safe and compliant with fire safety regulations.
3. Option A3: Regardless of whether the first two options apply, a rating of A3 suggests that remedial works may be needed. In such cases, further investigation and potential improvements to the external wall system are required to ensure fire safety.
Option B:
Under Option B, two potential ratings can be assigned:
1. Option B1: This rating indicates a low risk of fire, thereby eliminating the need for any remedial works. Buildings with this rating are deemed to have a safe external wall system.
2. Option B2: A rating of B2 suggests a high risk of fire, highlighting the necessity for remedial works. Buildings with this rating require immediate attention to ensure the safety of occupants and the surrounding environment.
Who Requires an EWS1 Form?
The EWS1 form is applicable to all residential properties, regardless of their height. This includes blocks of flats, student accommodation, assisted living facilities, care homes, and houses of multiple occupancies. It is important to note that leaseholders, valuers, or lenders cannot arrange for an EWS assessment. The legal owners of the properties are responsible for ensuring that the assessment takes place.
Validity of EWS Certificates:
Once a building undergoes an EWS assessment and receives a certificate, it remains valid for a period of five years. However, if significant refurbishment takes place during this period, impacting the result of the survey, it is essential to conduct a new assessment to ensure ongoing compliance with fire safety regulations.
How is an EWS Survey Carried Out?
An EWS survey involves a comprehensive evaluation of the external wall system of a building. The survey is conducted by registered and qualified assessors who possess the necessary expertise in fire safety and building regulations. The assessment typically includes:
1. Visual Inspection: Assessors inspect the external wall system, looking for any signs of combustible materials or potential fire hazards. This may involve examining cladding, insulation, cavity barriers, and other relevant components.
2. Sampling and Testing: In some cases, assessors may take samples of the cladding or other materials for laboratory testing. This helps in determining the composition and fire resistance properties of the materials used.
3. Documentation Review: Assessors review relevant documentation, including construction plans, fire safety certificates, and maintenance records, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the building's history and compliance.
4. Risk Assessment: Based on the findings from the visual inspection, testing, and documentation review, assessors conduct a thorough risk assessment to determine the appropriate rating for the building.
Conclusion:
At Tayross Associates, we understand the critical importance of fire safety and compliance with the EWS regulations. As registered EWS assessors, we are committed to ensuring the safety of residential properties in London and beyond. Tayross Associates will provide you with professional and reliable EWS assessments, safeguarding your property and its occupants from the risks associated with combustible materials.
Contact:
Here at Tayross, Carl is a Chartered Senior Surveyor with experience in Planning, Building Surveying, and Party Wall related matters. He is happy to help with any questions you may have regarding the above.
Please visit our 'contact us' page here for contact details - www.tayross.com/contact
Please visit our website here for more information - www.tayross.com
