Explore More Insights

Are EWS1 forms still required?
"In 2023, six major high street banks publicised that they no longer require EWS1 forms"
If you own a flat within a block and are considering selling or remortgaging your property, it's possible that the buyer's solicitor or lender may request an EWS1 form.
Introduced in 2019 by the Royal Institution for Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and UK Finance, the EWS1 form aims to furnish lenders with comprehensive information regarding potential remediation costs. Its purpose is to assist lenders in accurately assessing the property's true value and determining whether remedial work is necessary.
In 2023, six major high street banks—Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, Nationwide, NatWest, and Santander—publicised that they no longer require EWS1 forms, provided that the leaseholder can demonstrate:
-
The developer has committed to carry out remedial action themselves. (Here is a list of developers who have signed the government's developers pledge)
-
The building is covered by the Developer Remediation Contracts or the Medium Rise Scheme or the Building Safety Fund.
-
The leaseholder is protected under the Building Safety Act and has a deed of certificate.
Lenders will proceed with mortgage approvals in cases where an EWS1 form is categorised as having an A1, A2, or B1 rating which indicates that no remediation is necessary.
The above is by no means a guarantee and we see many lenders, insurers and solicitors require an in date EWS1. Our fire engineering team can carry out Nationwide EWS1s and if you Contact Us we’d be happy to discuss any requirements and provide some reassurance.
