EWS1 forms
EWS1 forms (External Wall System forms) are standardised documents used in the mortgage valuation process for flats where there may be concerns about cladding or other external wall materials. They are designed to give lenders and valuers confidence about the fire risk of a building’s external wall system, helping a sale or remortgage proceed. Importantly, an EWS1 form is not a general building “safety certificate”, and the fact that a building does not have, or does not need an EWS1 does not automatically mean there are no building safety issues.
From a landlord’s perspective, EWS1 issues usually show up when you let or sell a leasehold flat in a multi-occupancy building. Your prospective tenant might not ask about EWS1 directly, but it can affect the wider property picture: ability to remortgage, building insurance costs, planned remediation, service charge increases, and the size of a sinking fund. If you are buying-to-let, a lender may require EWS evidence before completing. If you already own the flat, it may shape your refinancing options.
Who provides it? Typically the freeholder or managing agent commissions the assessment, because it relates to the whole building rather than an individual flat. Some councils and building owners make clear there is no general legal duty to provide an EWS1 on request, so you may need to manage expectations with buyers, tenants and agents. This is separate from duties around providing relevant fire safety information.
EWS decisions are meant to be risk-based. RICS guidance aims to reduce unnecessary requests, especially for lower-rise buildings, and focuses on proportionate evidence for valuers.
With the Renters’ Rights Act from 1 May 2026 in England increasing scrutiny of standards and expanding redress routes, landlords should treat building-safety documentation as part of good letting hygiene. This should include disclose material issues, keep records, and plan repairs and communications early to avoid housing disputes.
Also see our landlord blog articles.
