Navigating Post-EWS1: What Happens After Your Building Fails the Assessment?

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An EWS1 (External Wall System) form is an essential part of demonstrating your building’s fire safety, especially for properties with cladding systems. But what happens if your building doesn’t pass the EWS1 assessment? In this article, we’ll break down the next steps, the challenges involved, and how expert contractors like R2R Maintenance and Fire Stopping can help you navigate the process smoothly.

1️⃣ What Does a Failed EWS1 Mean?

A failed EWS1 means that the external wall system of your building—such as cladding, insulation, and fire barriers—has been deemed non-compliant or presents an increased fire risk. As well as being potentially life threatening, the outcome can:

• Affect property sales and refinancing options.

• Impact insurance coverage and premiums.

• Cause anxiety for residents and property managers.

  
  

It’s a situation that calls for swift, professional action to bring the building up to compliance standards.

2️⃣ Immediate Next Steps After a Failed Assessment

Here’s what you need to do:

✅ Engage with the fire engineer or surveyor who completed the EWS1 to understand the issues.

✅ Obtain a detailed report outlining the specific defects or compliance gaps.

✅ Consult with qualified remediation specialists, like R2R, to develop a plan for rectifying the issues.

3️⃣ Common Remediation Actions

Depending on the assessment findings, remediation may involve:

• Replacing combustible cladding materials.

• Installing or improving fire barriers and cavity closers.

• Upgrading firestopping measures at interfaces like windows, doors, and service penetrations.

• Ensuring correct installation and certification of materials used.

4️⃣ The Role of R2R in the Remediation Process

At R2R Maintenance and Fire Stopping, we’re here to:

🔹 Work closely with fire engineers to understand compliance requirements.

🔹 Develop a clear, staged remediation plan that minimises disruption.

🔹 Deliver quality workmanship to bring your building up to fire safety standards.

🔹 Provide detailed documentation and support to achieve a compliant EWS1 sign-off.

Our experience means we anticipate common challenges and help avoid delays.

5️⃣ Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Many building owners face:

🚩 Delays due to unclear plans or poor communication with stakeholders.

🚩 Using non-compliant materials or unqualified contractors.

🚩 Underestimating the scope of remediation work required.

By choosing a trusted, experienced team like R2R, you can navigate the process with confidence.

6️⃣ Final Thoughts

A failed EWS1 is a serious issue, but it’s also an opportunity to ensure your building meets today’s stringent fire safety standards. With the right approach and support from qualified professionals, you can not only restore compliance but also protect the value of your property and the safety of its occupants.

Need help with your EWS remediation? Contact R2R Maintenance and Fire Stopping today to get started.