Buying or selling a leasehold property in a block of flats has often been complicated by cladding concerns and the need for EWS1 forms. But a new statement from UK Finance, supported by major lenders and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), brings some much-needed clarity to the situation.
Here at Oakfield Estate Agents, we stay up to date on industry developments that affect our clients. Here’s a clear breakdown of what the latest changes mean—especially if you’re planning to buy or sell a flat affected by cladding.
What Is an EWS1 Form?
The EWS1 form (External Wall System form) was introduced in 2019 to assess fire safety risks associated with cladding and external wall systems in residential buildings over 18 metres—or those with identified concerns. It has become a key part of the mortgage process for flats in affected buildings.
However, over time, the market has faced challenges, including expired forms and questions over the validity of signatories. That’s where this latest update helps.
What’s Changed?
UK Finance has provided two key clarifications:
- EWS1 Forms Older Than Five Years Will Still Be Accepted
Originally, EWS1 forms were intended to be valid for five years, under the assumption that remedial works would have been completed within that timeframe.
Now that early forms are reaching that five-year mark, UK Finance has confirmed that:
Lenders will not require a blanket reissue or renewal of EWS1 forms that are more than five years old.
This decision aims to keep the property market moving and reduce unnecessary obstacles for leaseholders and buyers.
What this means for you:
If your flat already has a valid EWS1 form—no matter how old—it is still likely to be accepted by most lenders, depending on their individual policies.
- Forms Signed by an Invalid Signatory Won’t Be Automatically Dismissed
Some EWS1 forms were signed by professionals who were later found not to be appropriately qualified under RICS guidelines. In these cases, UK Finance now states that:
Lenders will not require wholesale reviews of affected forms. Instead, they may assess each case based on other supporting evidence, such as:
- Documentation of remediation works
- Status under the Building Safety Act 2022
- Whether the lease qualifies as a “qualifying lease”
What this means for you:
If your EWS1 form was flagged due to an issue with the signatory, your sale or mortgage may still proceed—especially if other evidence confirms the building’s safety or remediation status.
Why This Update Matters
This is an important step in unblocking sales and purchases of flats in buildings with historic cladding concerns. With clearer guidance and more flexibility from lenders, leaseholders and buyers alike should experience:
- Fewer delays during conveyancing
- Less risk of mortgage refusals
- Greater confidence in buying and selling flats in affected blocks
Need Help Navigating the EWS1 Process?
At Oakfield Estate Agents, we’re helping clients every day who are dealing with building safety and cladding-related concerns. Whether you’re a leaseholder unsure where you stand, or a buyer concerned about lending requirements, we can guide you through your options.