External Wall Fire Review (EWS1): What Building Owners Need to Know

The EWS1 form has caused significant disruption to the UK property market. We explain what it is, when it's needed, and the assessment process.. Understanding EWS1 What Is EWS1? The External Wall System Fire Review (EWS1) form was introduced to provide a standardised way of assessing external wall fire safety for mortgage and valuation purposes. When Is It Needed? Buildings over 18m with cladding Buildings over 11m where the external wall system includes combustible materials Required by most mortgage lenders before lending Assessment Options Option A — External wall materials are unlikely to support combustion Option B1 — Combustible materials present but risk is acceptably low Option B2 — Remediation required to reduce risk to acceptable level Only B2 requires remediation works Who Can Assess? Must be an RICS registered valuer with fire safety competence, or An IFE registered fire engineer with appropriate insurance For EWS1 assessments, contact us.