House of Lords Committee cites cladding delays risking 1.5 million homes target

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Delays linked to cladding remediation

A cross-party House of Lords Industry and Regulators Committee has warned the Government that Building Safety Regulator (BSR) approval delays are leaving residents in England waiting longer for dangerous cladding remediation, with higher costs for leaseholders.

The Committee published its report, The Building Safety Regulator: Building a better regulator, on Thursday 11 December 2025.

It said the delays have stretched beyond the regulator’s statutory timelines for building control decisions.

The Committee said it welcomed the increased scrutiny the BSR has brought to the design, construction and management of buildings in the interest of safety.

It also warned that delays could put the Government at risk of missing its target to build 1.5 million homes by 2029.

Findings on guidance and application quality

After hearing from witnesses including campaign groups, developers, housing associations and regulators working closely with the BSR, the Committee said the BSR has not given clear enough guidance on how applicants should demonstrate that buildings are safe.

It said many applications are being rejected or delayed because of basic errors.

It also said applicants are struggling to evidence how they are considering elements of fire safety and structural safety.

The Committee said this reflects poorly on the construction industry.

It also raised concerns that many construction products do not have relevant product standards, leaving them unregulated.

Inspector workforce and scope concerns

The Committee said difficulties in local authority funding and the introduction of regulation have contributed to an ageing workforce of building inspectors who are struggling to meet demand.

It said smaller works, such as bathroom renovations in high-rise buildings, are being subject to the scrutiny of the BSR’s multidisciplinary teams (MDTs).

The Committee linked that to pressure on MDT capacity.

It said a more streamlined approach is needed for smaller works.

Calls for BSR process changes

The Committee called on the BSR to give greater guidance to MDTs on how compliance with the Building Regulations should be evidenced and assessed to improve consistency.

It also called on the Government to remove smaller works from the BSR’s building control approval processes, or introduce a streamlined approval process for them.

The Committee said allocating the same MDTs to similar buildings or projects built by the same organisation could improve efficiency and consistency.

It also called on the Government to provide long-term funding for the training of new building and fire inspectors.

BSR response on processing times

The Building Safety Regulator said: “We recognise that building control applications have been taking too long to process.

“Since the Committee began its hearings in the summer, we have made significant changes to speed up decision making with a focus on new build and cladding remediation applications.

“These include a new Innovation Unit, batching processes, and the introduction of account managers to improve communication with applicants.

“These improvements are helping to increase industry confidence and, in the 12 weeks to 24 November, enabled construction to proceed on over 11,000 new homes.

“We also saw a 73% approval rate for new build decisions during that time, demonstrating that changes introduced are beginning to work.

“Making sure buildings with dangerous cladding are remediated quickly is also a priority and will be the focus of our new Remediation Enforcement Unit which will begin working on cases in the new year.

“The Committee’s recognition that BSR has successfully driven a ‘crucial cultural shift’ toward safer homes is a welcome endorsement of the new regime.

“We remain firmly committed to being a proportionate and enabling regulator that works alongside the construction sector to protect residents and deliver safe buildings in support of the government’s housing targets.”

Committee Chair comments on delays

Baroness Taylor of Bolton, Chair of the Committee, said: “The tragic loss of 72 lives at the Grenfell Tower fire laid bare the urgent need to reform building safety regulation in England, particularly for high-rise buildings.

“We welcome that the Government and the BSR are now acting to try and make practical improvements, but this will not address the anxiety and frustration that residents and companies have experienced.

“It does not improve safety to delay vital remediation and refurbishments, nor to deter the delivery of new housing in high-rise buildings.

“We expect to see further action from the Government and the BSR to ensure that construction projects in high-rise buildings can be brought forward more quickly, without compromising on vital safety improvements.”

What this means for approval teams and dutyholders

Delays linked to BSR approvals can affect fire engineers, building services engineers and design teams that need to evidence fire safety and structural safety decisions within building control submissions.

The Committee’s comments on basic application errors and missing evidence may lead dutyholders, principal designers and principal contractors to tighten internal checks before submissions, especially on how fire safety and structural safety have been considered.

Facilities managers and housing providers overseeing cladding remediation and refurbishment programmes may also see knock-on impacts where approvals sit on MDT caseloads for longer.

The Committee’s recommendations on removing smaller works from the BSR process, or streamlining approvals for them, could change how high-rise maintenance projects are planned and scheduled.

The call for long-term funding to train building and fire inspectors is directly relevant to enforcement capacity and the consistency of building control decisions.

Industry response from fire door manufacturer

Will Hunnam, Managing Director, Forza Doors, said: “The Lords committee is right to highlight delays created by the Building Safety Regulator.

“Excessive processing time is resulting in material project delays, the direct cost impact of these delays is ultimately rendering many projects economical unsustainable.

“Fire safety now has to be designed in from day one.

“When compliance and performance requirements are aligned early, projects move faster and deliver better outcomes.

“Delays disrupt that process and create uncertainty across the supply chain.

“Increased regulation is welcome, but only if it comes with clear guidance, proper resourcing and unwavering standards.

“Fire doors and passive protection are critical to keeping people safe and protecting asset value.

“The industry is ready to deliver.

“It now needs a regulator that can keep pace.”

New European cladding fire test standard to take effect in 2026

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementConstructionPassiveSafety

Introduction of revised European cladding testing standard

A revised European standard for cladding fire testing will come into force on 31 January 2026.

According to DBI – The Danish Institute of Fire and Security, the updated method replaces the existing system of visual fire test assessments with a temperature-based approach.

DBI explained that cladding products such as plasterboards and wooden panels must protect underlying materials during fire exposure.

The organisation said current testing relies on visual observation of whether underlying materials, such as particleboard, show signs of charring.

It added that this can lead to inconsistent results between laboratories.

Jeanne B. Kirk, Resistance to Fire Engineer at DBI, said: “It can be a bit subjective and cause variations from lab to lab. Disagreements often arise in borderline cases.”

Temperature-based pass or fail system

DBI confirmed that the new system will determine pass or fail based on measured temperatures.

The standard will use a threshold of whether recorded temperatures rise more than 270°C.

DBI has been directly involved in designing sensor placement for testing to ensure accurate assessment of whether underlying materials risk becoming charred.

Kirk said: “It’s about getting data sets that show how the material actually performs.

“If the temperature exceeds the limit, it automatically fails.

“This makes the conclusion much more objective.”

Adjustments to European classification system

DBI noted that cladding in Europe is classified with K1 10 and K2 30 standards, which indicate protection for 10 and 30 minutes.

It said the revision expands how these classes are documented to prevent products being approved for applications they are not suited for.

The organisation confirmed that the revised rules redefine application areas, ensuring results reflect intended use.

It added that three test substrates will now be used – expanded polystyrene (EPS), low-density materials such as insulation, and particleboard.

Kirk explained: “If you test on EPS, which is considered the worst-case scenario, you are allowed to install your cladding on anything.

“But if you test on insulation, you can only install it on similar low-density materials.

“In both cases, the installation method must be the same as in the test.”

Flexibility for manufacturers in testing

DBI stated that manufacturers will have clearer options under the new approach.

It gave the example of plasterboard producers, who previously needed separate tests for each substrate type.

DBI confirmed that a single test on EPS will now cover multiple substrate types including cellulose, seagrass, PIR, and PUR.

The organisation said this will simplify testing and reduce duplication.

It added that the revision introduces flexibility in fastening methods.

Kirk said: “A lot of people ask why they can’t just test it as a wall – because that’s how it’s actually installed in practice.

“Now this will be possible, but then of course it can only be used as wall cladding.”

She added: “If you test with nails, you will in the future be allowed to use screws in practice – something that was previously not possible without a separate test or an assessment in the European classification system.”

Incorporating bio-based materials

DBI explained that the revision makes it easier to use bio-based materials in construction.

It said the current system requires testing for each product and manufacturer individually.

Under the new method, switching between suppliers will be permitted if the materials are of the same type and have equivalent properties.

Kirk said: “As it stands, you can’t change anything – not thickness, not density, not manufacturer.

“Now we’ll have a standard method that allows switching within the same type.”

Timeline and industry preparation

DBI stated that the revised standard has been in development for seven years.

It confirmed the changes will take effect on 31 January 2026.

The institute recommended that manufacturers begin preparing test procedures now to ensure compliance.

Kirk said: “When you plan a fire test, it typically takes several months.

“So if you start now, you’ll be ready when the standard will come into effect.

“And you already know what you need to test for.”

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

The new cladding fire test standard affects how materials are assessed for fire protection across Europe.

Fire engineers will need to understand the implications of moving from visual to temperature-based assessments.

Regulators and testing bodies will apply the revised classification system when approving cladding products.

Fire safety professionals involved in specification and inspection will need to consider the new substrate-based testing approach and documentation requirements.

New European cladding fire test standard to take effect in 2026: Summary

A revised European cladding fire test standard will come into force on 31 January 2026.

DBI – The Danish Institute of Fire and Security reported that the new system replaces visual assessments with a temperature-based method.

Pass or fail will be determined by whether recorded temperatures exceed 270°C.

DBI contributed to sensor placement design in the testing setup.

Cladding classifications K1 10 and K2 30 will have updated documentation rules.

Three new standard test substrates will be used – EPS, low-density insulation, and particleboard.

A single EPS test will apply to multiple substrate types.

Wall-mounted testing will be allowed if cladding is intended for vertical use.

Flexibility in fastening methods will be introduced.

Bio-based materials will be easier to incorporate under the revised standard.

Switching between suppliers of equivalent bio-based products will be permitted.

The standard has been in development for seven years.

It will take effect on 31 January 2026.

DBI advises manufacturers to begin testing preparations immediately.

Taylor Wimpey increases fire safety provision by £222 million following updated assessments

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

UK housebuilder expands cladding remediation work amid revised risk profile

Taylor Wimpey plc has increased its cladding fire safety provision by £222.2 million following updated fire risk assessments and site investigations across legacy buildings.

According to the company’s half-year 2025 results, the reassessment led to a higher estimate of costs associated with remediating cavity barrier defects behind brickwork and render, which had not been visible in earlier surveys.

The new provision includes £144.9 million for expanded remedial works, £39.5 million for additional cladding remediation, and £37.8 million for site-specific costs, professional fees and contingencies.

The company said it continues to support leaseholders by covering remediation costs and reiterated that residents should not bear the financial burden of these works.

Taylor Wimpey said the provision reflects its best current estimate, noting that it is pursuing cost recovery where applicable, including legal action where necessary.

Reassessment prompted by evolving guidance and expanded surveys

Taylor Wimpey explained that recent work to meet the Government’s Remediation Action Plan deadlines included further Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW) and intrusive investigations.

The company stated that two-thirds of the additional provision relates to cavity barriers not identified during previous non-intrusive surveys.

It noted that some of the increase was linked to recent changes in how chartered fire engineers interpret the PAS 9980 standard, which has resulted in more conservative assessments of risk.

Buildings that previously required no remediation under older EWS1 assessments were now identified as needing work based on current FRAEW analysis, according to the company.

The firm said it had increased internal capability and accelerated its remediation programme to meet regulatory timelines and ensure safety standards are maintained.

Financial impact and group performance in first half of 2025

The company reported a loss before tax of £92.1 million in the first half of 2025, compared to a £99.7 million profit in the same period the previous year.

This result reflects exceptional charges, including the £222.2 million fire safety provision and an £18.0 million provision related to commitments made to the Competition and Markets Authority.

Group operating profit for the period was £161.0 million, including a £20.0 million charge related to defective workmanship by a former contractor on a London development.

Taylor Wimpey reaffirmed its guidance for full-year UK completions to be between 10,400 and 10,800 homes, with operating profit expected to be around £424 million.

The firm reported an 11% year-on-year increase in group completions, including joint ventures, rising to 5,264 homes in the first half of 2025.

Cladding remediation cost outlook and financial planning

Taylor Wimpey said it still expects cash outflow related to cladding remediation to be around £100 million in 2025, unchanged from earlier guidance.

While the revised provision increases the gross cost over a longer timeframe, the company stated that lower tax payments are likely to offset this in 2026.

The provision excludes any potential recoveries, although the company confirmed it is pursuing claims against responsible parties where applicable.

The company described the £222.2 million increase as its best estimate based on current assessments, noting that the provision is subject to change as further buildings are evaluated and remediation progresses.

Taylor Wimpey ended the period with a net cash balance of £326.6 million and anticipates a year-end balance of around £350 million, subject to land investment.

Ongoing remediation strategy and customer engagement

Taylor Wimpey said it prioritises completing works efficiently without compromising safety or quality.

The company said it remains committed to ensuring residents have a clear resolution pathway, and reiterated that leaseholders would not be asked to contribute financially to fire safety remediation.

Taylor Wimpey stated that its internal remediation delivery capability has been strengthened and that progress toward government completion targets is ongoing.

Chief Executive Jennie Daly said: “The safety of our customers remains our highest priority – this principle has consistently guided our approach.”

Daly added: “We have therefore increased our cladding fire safety provision to reflect findings from updated fire risk assessments and investigations in the first half.”

The firm confirmed it would continue to engage with relevant authorities, including the Building Safety Regulator, as well as industry professionals, to meet all legal and safety obligations.

Wimpey increases fire safety provision by £222 million following updated assessments: Summary

Taylor Wimpey plc has raised its fire safety provision by £222.2 million.

The company attributed the increase to expanded cavity barrier remediation works, new FRAEW assessments and evolving fire engineer interpretations.

Two-thirds of the increased provision relates to defects behind brickwork and render not visible in earlier inspections.

The updated figure includes £39.5 million for additional cladding-related work and £37.8 million in cost adjustments.

Fire safety remediation costs are not being passed to leaseholders, the company said.

Cash outflows in 2025 remain forecast at £100 million.

The company is pursuing cost recovery where responsible parties can be identified.

Net cash at the end of the first half was £326.6 million.

Operating profit for H1 2025 was £161.0 million, including a £20.0 million remediation charge unrelated to cladding.

Loss before tax was £92.1 million, also reflecting a £15.8 million CMA-related provision.

Taylor Wimpey reaffirmed full-year UK completion guidance of 10,400 to 10,800 homes.

Non-combustible panels market expands amid global fire safety rules

by Featured NewsPassiveResearchSafety

Fire safety regulations driving demand for panels

According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, the global non-combustible panels market is valued at USD 10 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 17.2 billion by 2032.

The projected growth is attributed to tighter fire safety regulations and increasing requirements for fire-resistant materials in high-rise, residential, commercial, and public infrastructure construction.

The market includes materials such as fibre cement boards, aluminium panels with mineral cores, and ceramic-based cladding, which manufacturers say are used to meet stricter compliance standards for fire performance in façade and partition applications.

ResearchAndMarkets.com reported that building codes in several countries have been updated to ban combustible materials on high-rise and public sector buildings, prompting retrofit programmes and greater product innovation.

Fire safety standards such as EN 13501-1 A1 and A2 ratings are driving design requirements, particularly in regions with recent fire incident investigations.

Product development and manufacturer responses

Manufacturers are introducing new materials and product lines to respond to evolving requirements and cost-efficiency concerns.

According to the report, James Hardie has launched advanced fibre cement panels aimed at external façade safety, while Fairview has expanded its Vitracore and Vitrabond ranges to include non-combustible aluminium and mineral core options.

Alucobond has introduced A2-rated aluminium panels designed for architectural applications, targeting both new build and retrofit projects.

The report said companies are also focusing on panels that balance fire performance with durability, weather resistance, and installation efficiency.

Options with varied textures, colours, and weight reductions are being developed to appeal to architects and meet installation requirements without compromising structural support.

Market growth and regional differences

ResearchAndMarkets.com reported that North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are the largest regional markets for non-combustible panels.

Growth is particularly strong in countries where governments have implemented national retrofitting programmes or set mandatory material requirements for high-rise and public buildings.

In the United Kingdom, Australia, and parts of the European Union, regulations now mandate the removal and replacement of combustible aluminium composite materials with tested non-combustible alternatives.

Retrofitting demand is also growing in countries including Canada and the United States, where local building authorities are updating safety standards.

Emerging markets are showing slower uptake due to cost and availability challenges, the report stated.

Challenges and barriers to adoption

Despite market expansion, ResearchAndMarkets.com identified several ongoing barriers to widespread use.

Non-combustible panels typically have higher material and installation costs compared to traditional options such as polyethylene-core aluminium composite panels.

Weight is another issue, with some products requiring reinforced structural support or complex installation processes, particularly for existing buildings not designed for heavier cladding systems.

The report also noted that the market is fragmented, with a variety of competing materials and standards across countries, creating inconsistencies in adoption.

Fluctuations in raw material supply chains and rising inflation have further impacted pricing and procurement.

Trends in safety, design, and compliance

The report found that most current innovations are focused on improving compliance with safety certifications while maintaining design flexibility.

Manufacturers are developing lighter alternatives with the same or higher fire classification performance to reduce installation times and structural requirements.

The report stated that companies are also adding weatherproofing and impact resistance features in response to increasing demand for multi-performance materials.

Digital modelling and pre-certification tools are being used to support compliance from the design stage, reducing risks during inspections and construction.

According to ResearchAndMarkets.com, increased awareness of fire safety risks is driving architects and developers to prioritise tested and certified cladding systems across all building types.

Non-combustible panels market expands amid global fire safety rules: Summary

The global non-combustible panels market is projected to grow from USD 10 billion in 2024 to USD 17.2 billion by 2032.

This growth is attributed to updated fire safety regulations across multiple regions.

The report is published by ResearchAndMarkets.com.

Products include fibre cement, aluminium mineral core, and ceramic panels.

James Hardie, Fairview, and Alucobond have all released new panel lines.

EN 13501-1 A1 and A2 ratings are key compliance benchmarks.

North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are the leading regional markets.

High costs and installation needs remain key barriers.

Retrofitting drives demand in the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada.

Manufacturers are developing lightweight panels with added durability.

Stakeholders are using modelling tools to streamline fire safety design.

The report covers projections through to 2034, with market segmentation and company profiles.

UK Government sets cladding deadlines, funds £1 billion remediation plan, and pauses Grenfell-linked inquiries

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

UK Government launches cladding law, funding and enforcement action

The UK Government has confirmed new deadlines, funding access and enforcement measures as part of an updated plan to accelerate cladding remediation across social housing.

According to the UK Government, the joint plan was published on 17 July 2025 and follows delays in removing unsafe cladding from thousands of social housing buildings.

The new measures include over £1 billion in funding and set out legal obligations for landlords, backed by penalties for non-compliance.

The proposals form part of an update to the wider Remediation Acceleration Plan and are accompanied by the introduction of a draft Remediation Bill.

According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG), the plan aims to ensure that by the end of 2029 all 18m+ buildings are remediated, with buildings between 11m and 18m to follow by the end of 2031.

UK Government outlines joint plan with social housing sector

The UK Government reported that only 44 percent of the 2,800 social housing buildings identified with unsafe cladding in England had begun remediation by June 2025.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government said that the updated strategy was developed in partnership with social landlords to remove financial and operational barriers.

According to the policy paper, the new plan gives social landlords equal access to funding schemes and introduces a statutory Duty to Remediate.

The plan includes support from Homes England, the use of the National Remediation System for progress tracking, and mandatory reporting requirements.

Social landlords will also receive guidance and training on data use and will be required to provide fire risk assessments for buildings above 11 metres by December 2027.

Legal penalties and new Remediation Bill introduced

The government confirmed that new legislation will introduce enforceable deadlines for remediation of buildings with unsafe cladding.

Under the draft Remediation Bill, landlords must complete works on buildings over 18 metres by the end of 2029 and buildings between 11 metres and 18 metres by the end of 2031.

The government stated that those who fail to meet these deadlines without a reasonable excuse could face unlimited fines or imprisonment.

The new law will also give Homes England and local authorities the power to carry out remedial works themselves if landlords do not comply.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “Today we have given social landlords access to over £1 billion to remediate unsafe cladding and make residents safe.

“We are also today sending a clear message to those responsible for a building still wrapped in unsafe cladding: act now or face the consequences.

“Our Remediation Bill will include a new duty on you to make your building safe by a specified date, and new powers to impose serious penalties on those who fail to comply with the duty, and ultimately to bypass them if necessary to make the building safe.”

Support for leaseholders and local authority involvement

New guidance also expands the Cladding Safety Scheme to include exceptional cases for buildings under 11 metres where no alternative funding is available.

Leaseholders are to receive continued support to reduce reliance on interim fire safety measures, including costs for Waking Watch services.

According to the UK Government, over £5 million has been made available to support Metro Mayors in delivering Local Remediation Acceleration Plans in their regions.

The Building Safety Levy is set to take effect from October 2026 and is expected to raise £3.4 billion over the next ten years.

Affordable, supported and small-scale housing will be exempt from the levy, along with discounts for developments on previously used land.

Building Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “We are determined to make buildings safe and protect residents.

“There is now a clear pathway to remediate every building with unsafe cladding.

“We expect everyone to play their part in giving residents and leaseholders the peace of mind that they deserve.”

Investigations paused into Grenfell suppliers during criminal proceedings

On 10 July 2025, the Cabinet Office confirmed that debarment investigations into seven companies named in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry had been paused.

According to the UK Government, this decision was made following advice from the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service that the investigations could interfere with criminal proceedings.

The Procurement Act 2023 allows the government to investigate suppliers and add them to a debarment list, potentially excluding them from public contracts.

The Cabinet Office said the pause does not end the process, and action may resume once the criminal investigation has concluded.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden told Parliament that the priority must be maintaining the integrity of the police investigation.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has written to survivors, bereaved families and residents in the local community to communicate this decision and affirm the government’s position.

UK Government announces £1 billion plan to speed up cladding removal in social housing: Summary

The UK Government has published a new joint plan with the social housing sector to accelerate cladding remediation.

The announcement was made on 17 July 2025.

The plan includes over £1 billion in new investment.

Landlords must complete cladding remediation on buildings over 18 metres by 2029.

Buildings between 11 and 18 metres must be remediated by 2031.

New legislation will introduce legal obligations with fines or prison sentences for non-compliance.

Homes England and local authorities will be given powers to act where landlords fail to do so.

Funding will now be available to social landlords on the same terms as private building owners.

The National Remediation System will track remediation progress.

Additional support will be provided to leaseholders, including alternatives to Waking Watch.

Funding may be made available for buildings under 11 metres in specific cases.

Local Remediation Acceleration Plans will be led by Metro Mayors.

The Building Safety Levy is expected to raise £3.4 billion and begins in October 2026.

Debarment investigations into Grenfell-linked suppliers have been paused to protect criminal proceedings.

This decision follows advice from the Metropolitan Police and Crown Prosecution Service.

Fire safety and housing repair frameworks launched under Procurement Act

by Building ManagementFeatured NewsSafety

Frameworks to deliver repairs and fire safety services across UK housing stock

A new £120 million fire safety framework and a £480 million housing repairs programme are being launched by Places for People.

The organisation said the repairs framework will cover homes in England and Scotland, excluding the South East, and is expected to run until 1 April 2030.

Alongside this, it has started procurement for a fire safety framework that will include fire risk appraisals, cladding remediation design, cladding replacement, and both passive and active fire protection systems.

Contracts launched under Procurement Act 2023

Places for People confirmed that both frameworks will be issued under the Procurement Act 2023, which came into force in February.

The Act has been described by the government as a modernisation of public procurement, allowing for more flexible spending processes across public sector organisations.

Local authorities and housing associations have been identified as key stakeholders in this procurement overhaul, which applies to all contracting authorities in the UK.

Procurement leader highlights supplier opportunities

Alan Heron, director of procurement at Places for People, said the new contracts reflect a wider commitment to supporting procurement reform in housing: “We are committed to continually improving public sector procurement and working alongside others who share the same values.

“These are two of the upcoming contracts we will be tendering for in the coming 18 months.

“Our frameworks provide suppliers across the UK the opportunity to partner with us to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the housing sector, as well as granting access to the highest-quality and most cost-effective solutions on the market.

“In addition, when using one of our frameworks, suppliers can be confident that they’re supporting social value projects across local communities.

“Now more than ever, we need robust frameworks, underpinned by professionalism, integrity, transparency, and a passion for both procurement and the public sector within which they operate.”

Previous reporting highlights demand for repairs

According to Places for People’s most recent annual report, 54,000 more repairs were carried out in 2023–24 than originally forecast.

This increase in demand preceded the launch of the new national repair contract and has been cited as one of the drivers behind the new framework’s development.

In a separate announcement, Fusion21 recently confirmed the supplier list for its £1.5 billion decarbonisation framework, another procurement programme under the new legislative regime.

Fire safety and housing repair frameworks launched under Procurement Act: Summary

Places for People has announced a £120 million fire safety framework.

It has also announced a £480 million planned and responsive repairs framework.

The repairs contract will run until 1 April 2030.

The frameworks will cover homes in England and Scotland, excluding the South East.

The fire safety procurement covers risk assessments, cladding design, cladding replacement, and fire systems.

Both contracts are being issued under the Procurement Act 2023.

The Act came into force in February 2025.

It aims to modernise and add flexibility to public procurement.

Alan Heron is director of procurement at Places for People.

He said the frameworks would create opportunities for suppliers and support social value in communities.

Heron added that robust, transparent frameworks are needed across the sector.

In 2023–24, 54,000 more repairs were carried out than expected.

This was reported in the company’s annual report.

Fusion21 has recently named suppliers on a separate £1.5 billion framework.

This decarbonisation framework also operates under the Procurement Act.

Mayor and Government launch joint board to address London’s cladding crisis

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

New board established to accelerate cladding remediation in London

The office of the Mayor of London has reported that a new Joint Remediation Partnership Board has been created to speed up the removal of unsafe cladding on residential buildings above 11 metres across the capital.

The board met for the first time on 6 May 2025 and is chaired jointly by Deputy Mayor of London for Housing Tom Copley and Minister for Building Safety and Fire Alex Norris.

The new group brings together City Hall, the Government, the London Fire Brigade, London Councils, housing providers and regulatory bodies.

It has been formed in response to what the office of the Mayor described as the scale of the building safety challenge in London, with more than 1,500 buildings in remediation programmes yet to begin works.

The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, said: “This is a significant step forward in speeding up the removal of dangerous cladding in London, which had been far too slow under the previous Government.

“Everyone deserves the right to live in a safe home – a right denied to the residents of Grenfell Tower.

“I will not stop until we can say with confidence that the failings which led to this disaster will never be repeated.

“I will continue to work hand-in-hand with the Government, London Councils, the London Fire Brigade and the sector to take swift action to remove dangerous cladding on buildings as we continue to build a safer London for everyone.”

Strategy to meet 2029 national remediation target

The office of the Mayor stated that the board will establish a formal plan to align national, regional and local enforcement efforts.

Its purpose is to support the Government’s goal that, by the end of 2029, all residential buildings over 11 metres with unsafe cladding across the UK will either be remediated, scheduled for completion, or subject to enforcement penalties.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities reported that London currently has four times the national average of high-rise homes, and over 1,500 buildings in Government remediation programmes have not yet started work on site.

Building and Fire Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “The pace of remediation has been far too slow and nearly eight years on from the Grenfell Fire tragedy far too many people are living in buildings with unsafe cladding.

“This problem is particularly acute in London, which is why I’m pleased to be working with the Deputy Mayor for London and the Greater London Authority to accelerate the pace of remediation work in London, and ensure residents feel safe and secure in their homes.

“Alongside the London Fire Brigade, London Councils and regulators, we are bringing renewed vigour to tackling long-overdue issues with unsafe cladding in the capital.”

Calls for resources and coordination from borough councils

London Councils has welcomed the creation of the new board but highlighted that local authorities face funding constraints.

Cllr Grace Williams, London Councils’ Executive Member for Housing & Regeneration, said: “Boroughs’ overriding priority is to ensure every Londoner is safe – and feels safe – in their home.

“Faster progress must be made in removing unsafe cladding and it is vital this coalition of key partners help bring together our respective powers, resources and influence to accelerate remediation.

“It is also pivotal that boroughs and our partners have sufficient resources to enforce standards.

“There is currently a massive squeeze on London’s housing budgets, which makes it harder to modernise buildings and address safety concerns, as well as holding us back from building the new housing we desperately need.”

London Fire Brigade supports partnership initiative

The London Fire Brigade has stated that the new partnership will help improve building safety across the capital.

Charlie Pugsley, Deputy Commissioner and Director of Prevention, Protection, and Operational Policy at London Fire Brigade, said: “The creation of the Joint Remediation Partnership Board, and continued support from the Mayor of London, will be key in helping to address the ongoing challenges being faced across London’s built environment.

“We support this action being taken to drive forward the remediation required across London’s high and medium rise residential properties.

“It is unacceptable that leaseholders and residents continue to face such uncertainty and stress, and in many cases, a significant financial burden, due to these buildings with dangerous cladding still not being remediated.

“Those responsible for residential buildings have a legal obligation and we will continue to work with all stakeholders to identify and address the risks to keep Londoners safe.”

Campaigners urge intervention on tower block plans in Bromley

The Fire Brigades Union and building safety campaign groups have written to Sadiq Khan and Bromley Council leader Colin Smith calling for construction of a proposed residential tower block in Penge to be halted.

According to the Fire Brigades Union, the planned building is 17.7 metres tall – 30 centimetres below the 18-metre threshold that triggers a requirement for two staircases under current regulations.

The London Fire Brigade lodged a nine-point objection, arguing that reducing the height to avoid a second staircase is “not ethically justified”.

Fire Brigades Union warns reduced height building could risk lives

Fire Brigades Union General Secretary Steve Wright said the development undermines post-Grenfell safety improvements.

He said: “This is an attempt to cut corners and get around the building safety regulations introduced to avoid a repeat of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

“If the development goes ahead in its current form, residents of this property will only have one staircase which they can use to evacuate.

“This could cost lives.

“It’s vital that Sadiq Khan uses his powers to block this attempt to circumvent the safety improvements that were introduced in the wake of the Grenfell fire.”

Organisations that have signed the letter include Justice for Grenfell, End Our Cladding Scandal, Tower Blocks UK, UK Cladding Action, ACORN, the London Renters’ Union and the Penge Preservation Society.

Mayor and Government launch joint board to address London’s cladding crisis: Summary

The office of the Mayor of London has reported that a new Joint Remediation Partnership Board has been established.

The board is co-chaired by Deputy Mayor for Housing Tom Copley and Minister for Building Safety and Fire Alex Norris.

It brings together representatives from City Hall, the Government, London Councils, housing associations, the London Fire Brigade and regulatory bodies.

The board will set a strategy to speed up the removal of unsafe cladding from residential buildings in London over 11 metres in height.

The strategy supports the national target to remediate such buildings by the end of 2029 or issue enforcement penalties.

More than 1,500 buildings in London’s remediation programme have not yet started on site.

The London Fire Brigade stated that continued inaction places residents under stress and financial strain.

London Councils said boroughs need greater resources to deliver building safety enforcement and remediation.

The Fire Brigades Union has written to the Mayor and Bromley Council opposing a 17.7 metre tower block that avoids new staircase rules.

The FBU warned that a single-staircase building of that height could endanger residents during an evacuation.

Unsafe cladding remediation data: England update

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Nearly half of high-rise residential buildings with unsafe cladding still awaiting full remediation

According to the Fire Protection Association, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published updated figures on the remediation of high-rise residential buildings with unsafe cladding in England.

As of the end of March 2025, 5,031 residential buildings 11 metres and over in height have been identified as having unsafe cladding.

MHCLG reported that remediation work has either started or been completed on 2,459 of these buildings, with 1,637 having completed the process.

Progress reported across safety funding schemes

The Fire Protection Association reported that 824 buildings have been confirmed as eligible for support through the Building Safety Fund.

Of the remaining 2,861 registered for the scheme, 456 have been transferred to developers and 121 to the Cladding Safety Scheme.

There are now 617 buildings eligible under the Cladding Safety Scheme, and 602 of these have signed Grant Funding Agreements.

This represents an increase of 37 signed agreements since the previous reporting period in February 2025.

Developer remediation and social housing data

MHCLG confirmed that 4,648 buildings are within scope of the developer remediation contract.

Of these, 844 buildings have been identified with life-critical fire safety defects which developers are responsible for addressing.

The Regulator of Social Housing has reported that 2,718 social housing buildings 11 metres or taller have been identified with cladding-related fire safety defects.

Of these, 857 buildings have completed remediation works.

A total of 1,915 of the affected social buildings were reported by registered providers during their most recent assessment.

Local authority enforcement activity increases

The Fire Protection Association noted that enforcement action has now been taken against 537 buildings over 11 metres in height with unsafe cladding.

This reflects an increase of five buildings since the February 2025 update.

Local authorities have undertaken 156 inspections with Joint Inspection Team support across 153 buildings.

Out of the 537 buildings with enforcement activity, 122 were rated Category 1 and 360 as Category 2 under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.

MHCLG stated: “Of the 537 buildings, we are aware that at least 194 improvement notices, 54 hazard awareness notices and 1 prohibition order have been served to date. Some buildings may have received multiple notices. We understand that 44 of the improvement notices have been subject to appeals.”

Unsafe cladding remediation data: England update – Summary

The Fire Protection Association reported that 5,031 residential buildings 11 metres and over in height in England have been identified with unsafe cladding.

MHCLG stated that 2,459 of these buildings have either started or completed remediation works.

A total of 1,637 buildings have completed remediation.

MHCLG is monitoring an additional 17 buildings since February 2025.

Thirty-one more buildings are known to have started or completed remediation, including 18 that have completed it.

The Building Safety Fund has confirmed eligibility for 824 buildings.

456 buildings have been transferred to developers and 121 to the Cladding Safety Scheme.

617 buildings are eligible under the Cladding Safety Scheme, with 602 having signed Grant Funding Agreements.

MHCLG confirmed 4,648 buildings are under the developer remediation contract.

844 of those buildings have life-critical fire safety defects.

2,718 social housing buildings have been identified with fire-safety cladding defects.

857 social housing buildings have completed remediation.

Enforcement action has been taken against 537 buildings over 11 metres in height.

194 improvement notices, 54 hazard awareness notices and 1 prohibition order have been issued.

44 of the improvement notices are under appeal.

Government urged to address skills shortages delaying cladding remediation

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassiveSafety

PAC report highlights UK cladding remediation delays

A new report by the Public Accounts Committee has identified ongoing delays and challenges in the UK’s response to the cladding crisis.

According to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the findings reflect key issues already raised in its recent remediation industry white paper.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said the report confirmed that efforts to fix unsafe buildings continue to be obstructed by major barriers beyond funding alone:

Hardingham said: “Today’s report exposes both the extent of the cladding crisis and the considerable gaps that lie between the remediation action plan and its realisation.”

Fire services say capacity is limiting inspections

The NFCC has reiterated that fire and rescue services are under-resourced to meet the scale of inspection work needed for mid-rise residential buildings.

Hardingham said: “Fire and rescue services have been at the forefront of the response to remediate unsafe buildings, but as we continue to point out, lack the capacity and workforce needed to identify and inspect all mid-rise residential buildings.”

He also pointed to wider labour issues in construction as another contributing factor: “We are also seeing delays to remediation compounded further by skills shortages in the construction sector.”

Enforcement alone will not solve compliance issues

The NFCC cautioned that enforcement strategies cannot resolve the crisis without support for those required to act.

Hardingham said: “Whilst the Committee is justified in putting a spotlight on the important role of enforcement, this must be considered against the fact that many responsible building owners lack the means to comply due to complex ownership structures, or a shortage of skilled professionals to do the job.”

He added: “Put simply – we cannot enforce our way out of the cladding crisis.”

NFCC calls for national skills and remediation strategy

The NFCC is urging the UK Government to lead a centralised remediation effort backed by a national skills strategy.

Hardingham said: “NFCC is calling for a centrally coordinated Government led programme to address barriers to remediating unsafe residential buildings, with a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy needed to address chronic shortages in fire engineers, risk assessors, and other key professionals.”

He said a long-term approach is needed to ensure people are not left in unsafe housing indefinitely: “Today’s report underpins the importance of getting those essential foundations in place so that we are not leaving thousands of people living in unsafe buildings for many more years to come.”

Government urged to address skills shortages delaying cladding remediation: Summary

The National Fire Chiefs Council has responded to a new report by the Public Accounts Committee on cladding remediation in the UK.

NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said the report confirms barriers already raised by the organisation in its white paper, including limited workforce capacity and skills shortages across the fire safety and construction sectors.

He said fire and rescue services do not have the resources to inspect all mid-rise residential buildings.

The NFCC said enforcement alone will not resolve compliance delays, as many responsible building owners are unable to act due to complex legal structures and labour shortfalls.

The NFCC is calling for a Government-led national remediation programme.

It is also proposing a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to address shortages in fire engineers, risk assessors and other professionals.