Buildings over 18 metres tall

We have a programme to check all our buildings in this category (we own or manage 44). We are carrying out this work as part of our building safety programme and EWS1 forms are being completed for each of them.

Across the country there are thousands of buildings that need these forms, and a limited number of qualified people who can do the work so it will take some time before our programme is complete.

Due to the Covid 19 outbreak this work was paused but has started again in the summer of 2020. Please note that some services are affected by the pandemic response and the need to work in a Covid-safe way. More information on our response to the pandemic is here.

What is an EWS1 form?

This form was developed by experts to help building owners record what assessment of the external wall construction of buildings over 18 metres tall has been carried out and the outcomes. Getting the information required to complete this form can often require significant intrusive testing of the fabric of the building. This is because, to comply with current government safety guidelines, building owners cannot rely on the fact a building received Building Control sign off at the time it was built.

Why is it taking so long?

The work required to produce the certification is challenging. The information required was not produced as part of the original construction process of the building and the government guidance requires a retrospective analysis. The only way to produce the analysis is to physically open up the building and take a detailed look. As well as the complicated nature of the work itself, there are other factors including the availability of the specially trained experts to complete the work. We are moving on this as fast as we can to safely produce the required information.

Can I find out more about the work on my block?

Read more about our building safety programme.  We will be providing EWS1 forms for each building as they are available.