Blogs
EWS1 Survey
Thursday 16th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS
EWS1 Survey at Harley Street: A Prestigious Project by Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors.
At Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors, we’re thrilled to announce our involvement in a prestigious project on Harley Street, one of London’s most iconic locations. We’ve been instructed to carry out an EWS1 (External Wall System) survey, leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline the process and deliver exceptional results.
Purpose of the Survey
The EWS1 survey is a critical component of this project, designed to assess the safety and compliance of the external wall system as part of a planning condition. This assessment will help determine whether the existing building structure is suitable to support the addition of an extra floor, a significant development that will enhance the building’s functionality and value.
Innovative Approach: Drone Technology
To ensure maximum efficiency and minimal disruption, we’re conducting this survey with the aid of advanced drone technology. This innovative approach offers numerous benefits:
• Minimised Costs: By reducing the need for scaffolding and other traditional access methods, drone inspections significantly cut down on costs.
• Time-Efficient: Drones allow us to complete inspections faster, accelerating the planning and decision-making process.
• Enhanced Safety: Using drones eliminates the need for surveyors to physically access hard-to-reach areas, ensuring safety for our team and minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.
• High-Resolution Data: Equipped with state-of-the-art cameras, drones capture detailed images and videos of the building’s external wall system, providing valuable insights into its condition.
Our Role in Harley Street’s Future
This project highlights our commitment to combining technical expertise with innovative technology to meet the evolving needs of our clients. Harley Street is renowned for its historical and architectural significance, and any proposed developments require a meticulous approach to ensure they comply with local regulations and meet planning conditions. Our role in this project is to provide the essential data and professional judgment required for informed decision-making.
The EWS1 Process
An EWS1 survey evaluates external wall systems for compliance with fire safety standards and is particularly important for buildings where future modifications are planned. In this case, we will:
1. Inspect and assess the materials used in the external wall system.
2. Evaluate the fire resistance and structural integrity of the existing system.
3. Provide a comprehensive report, detailing whether the building is suitable for the proposed additional floor.
Tayross: Delivering Excellence in Surveying
At Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors, we pride ourselves on offering forward-thinking solutions tailored to our clients’ unique requirements. This Harley Street project exemplifies our ability to adapt to complex challenges while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.
Looking Ahead
We are excited to contribute to the future of Harley Street while respecting its historic and architectural heritage. As the project unfolds, we’ll continue to provide updates on our progress and share insights into the EWS1 process and its implications for planning and development.
If you’re interested in learning more about EWS1 surveys or have a project requiring expert building surveying services, don’t hesitate to contact us at Tayross. We’d be delighted to assist with your next venture.
