FRAEW reports (Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls) is a structured, risk-based assessment of an existing multi-storey, multi-occupied residential building’s external wall system, including cladding, insulation, and balconies, to determine the risk to occupants from fire spreading over or within the walls.
The appraisal is conducted by a competent professional, such as a fire engineer or chartered surveyor, following the methodology set out in the British Standard PAS 9980:2022.
Purpose of a FRAEW
The FRAEW report is an essential part of complying with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as amended by the Fire Safety Act 2021.
Informing the overall Fire Risk Assessment (FRA): The findings of the FRAEW are incorporated into the building’s general FRA, which is a legal requirement for multi-occupied buildings.
Identifying hazards: FRAEW reports help pinpoint potential fire hazards, such as the presence of combustible materials, inadequate fire stopping, or poor workmanship.
Determining necessary action: The report assesses the risk level and recommends whether remediation (repairs or replacement of materials) or mitigation measures (e.g., interim fire alarms, changes to evacuation strategy) are necessary. FRAEW reports facilitate this
Supporting property transactions and funding: The report’s outcome, often summarised in an EWS1 form (External Wall System form) where requested by lenders, provides assurance for mortgage providers and insurers. It is also required for applications to government funding schemes like the Building Safety Fund and Cladding Safety Scheme. FRAEW reports facilitate this
Key Components of the FRAEW Process -The process is a detailed and technical review that typically involves:
Document review: Gathering and reviewing all available design, construction, and fire strategy documents for the building.
On-site inspection: Visual inspections, which often involve intrusive (partially destructive) investigations and sampling to confirm material types and construction methods beneath the surface.
Risk analysis: Evaluating how the identified materials and configurations would behave in a fire event, considering factors like building height and the existing fire safety measures.
Reporting: A comprehensive report outlining findings, a specific risk rating (low, medium, or high), and actionable recommendations
Our team have been involved in the property industry for over 35 years gaining a vast experience in all types of construction. After the Grenfell Tower disaster of June 14th 2017, we became heavily involved in building assessments all over the UK. Our work is in accordance with PAS9980, conducting intrusive surveys for EWS1 reports and fire risk assessments. Our approach is to gain as much information as possible for our clients with the minimum disruption to the residents.
