We first came across the EWS1 requirement back in 2018 while trying to purchase a customer’s ground-floor apartment at St. Vincent’s Court, Rodney Place, Tynemouth. At first glance, it seemed like a straightforward transaction—the property had its own front door, was slightly detached from the main building, and fell below the 18-meter height threshold for requiring a formal fire safety assessment. However, despite all that, we were met with repeated objections from financial authorities due to the lack of an EWS1 form.
As professional cash buyers based in the North East, we know how difficult and frustrating property sales can be, especially when unexpected hurdles like this arise. For us, it was an eye-opener—if a process like this can stall experienced buyers, imagine how challenging it must feel for individual sellers facing these issues for the first time. That’s why we’ve created this guide: to help you understand the EWS1 form, how it might impact your property, and what options you have to navigate this process stress-free.
What is an EWS1 Form?
The EWS1 form, short for External Wall System certificate, was introduced following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017. Its purpose is to address fire safety concerns related to the materials used in a building’s external walls, such as cladding and insulation. The form is completed by a qualified fire safety expert, who evaluates the building and categorizes it based on the level of risk posed by its construction materials.
Initially, the form was intended for buildings over 18 meters tall (roughly six stories) to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. However, in practice, many mortgage lenders began requiring the EWS1 form for shorter buildings and even ground-floor apartments, creating complications for properties that technically shouldn’t need one.
Why Does the EWS1 Form Matter?
If you’re planning to sell or buy a property in a multi-occupancy building, the EWS1 form can have a significant impact. Even if your property falls under the 18-meter threshold, lenders may still request one as part of their risk assessments. Here are some key ways the EWS1 form could affect you:
1. Mortgage Approval Delays
Mortgage lenders often refuse to approve loans for properties without an EWS1 form, even if the building is under 18 meters. This can leave buyers unable to secure financing, delaying or completely derailing the sale. Sellers are often left frustrated and uncertain about how to move forward.
2. Impact on Property Value
If an EWS1 assessment flags high-risk materials in the building’s external walls, it can lower the property’s value. Potential buyers may either offer less or back out entirely, fearing the cost of remediation or difficulty securing financing themselves.
3. Increased Costs for Leaseholders
When a building fails its EWS1 assessment, the responsibility for remedial work often falls to leaseholders. While government schemes have provided funding in some cases, the process can still involve lengthy delays and significant stress for property owners.
4. Reduced Buyer Pool
Without an EWS1 form, the number of potential buyers decreases significantly. Mortgage-dependent buyers often can’t proceed, leaving only cash buyers or investors willing to navigate the uncertainty.
Our Experience with EWS1 in the North East
At Home Sold Today, we’ve seen first-hand how the EWS1 form can complicate property sales, even here in the North East. While most people associate cladding issues with large cities or high-rise developments, properties in areas like Newcastle, Sunderland, and Tynemouth haven’t been immune to the ripple effects of these regulations.
Take our experience in Tynemouth as an example. The apartment we were purchasing had its own front door and was slightly detached from the main building, yet financial authorities insisted on the need for an EWS1 form. Despite being a cash-buying company, we still faced delays and complications. This experience taught us how critical it is to understand the nuances of the EWS1 process and offer tailored solutions to sellers who might feel stuck.
How Cash Buyers Like Us Can Help
If you’re struggling with EWS1-related issues or simply want to avoid the uncertainty, selling to a cash buyer like Home Sold Today can be a game-changer. Here’s how we can help:
1. No Mortgage Requirements
As a professional cash-buying company, we don’t rely on mortgages or external financing. That means we can purchase your property quickly and directly, bypassing any lender-related delays or complications tied to the EWS1 form.
2. Fast and Hassle-Free Sales
We specialize in fast property sales across the North East. Whether you’re in Newcastle, Sunderland, or a smaller town, we’ll work to complete the process in a matter of weeks, not months.
3. We Handle the Risks
If your property is affected by cladding issues or requires an EWS1 form, we’re equipped to manage those risks. You don’t need to worry about costly remedial work or how it might impact your sale-we’ll take care of it.
4. Guaranteed Sale
With us, there’s no uncertainty. Once we make an offer, you can trust that the sale will go through. There’s no chain, no waiting for buyer financing, and no last-minute complications.
Practical Steps for Sellers
If you’re considering selling your property and are concerned about the EWS1 form, here are some steps you can take to prepare:
Check Your Building’s Status: Speak with your building’s managing agent or freeholder to find out if an EWS1 form exists or is required. If there isn’t one, ask if there are plans to obtain it.
Stay Informed: Keep up to date with government schemes or funding opportunities that might help cover remediation costs if your building requires work.
Consider Selling to a Cash Buyer: If you want to avoid delays and uncertainty, selling to a professional cash buyer like us can provide peace of mind and a quick resolution.
Get Expert Advice: Consult with professionals, such as solicitors or surveyors, who are experienced in EWS1-related issues. They can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.
Why Choose Home Sold Today?
As a trusted cash-buying company in the North East, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners sell their properties quickly and without stress. We understand the unique challenges sellers face, from EWS1 complications to general market uncertainty, and we’re here to provide a straightforward, reliable solution.
Whether you’re in Tynemouth, Newcastle, Sunderland, or anywhere else in the region, our mission is to make your property sale as smooth as possible. No delays, no hidden fees—just a fast and hassle-free process tailored to your needs.
Let’s Get Started
Selling a property with EWS1 challenges doesn’t have to be stressful. At Home Sold Today, we’re here to help you navigate the process with confidence and ease. If you’re ready to sell or just want to explore your options, get in touch with our team today. We’ll provide a no-obligation cash offer and guide you every step of the way.
Comments