The City of London contains a number of mixed-use buildings with residential elements that require EWS1 certificates for sales and remortgages. While predominantly commercial, the Square Mile has residential apartments in modern developments around the Barbican fringes, Aldgate and along the riverside, many featuring contemporary cladding systems that mortgage lenders need assessed.
Our surveyors understand the particular challenges of EWS1 assessments in the City, where residential elements often form part of larger mixed-use buildings with complex facade configurations. We are experienced with curtain walling, rain-screen cladding and composite panel systems common on City buildings.
Whether you are selling a residential apartment in a City mixed-use building, remortgaging in a development near Aldgate, or managing a building with residential elements that requires external wall certification, we provide thorough EWS1 assessments in the City of London.
Mortgage lenders require EWS1 certificates for residential flats in City buildings with external wall systems. Mixed-use developments near the Barbican, Aldgate and along the river are commonly affected by lending requirements.
Most City of London buildings with residential elements exceed 11 metres. Mixed-use towers, converted commercial buildings and modern residential developments all fall within the EWS1 assessment scope required by lenders.
City buildings feature sophisticated facade systems including curtain walling, rain-screen cladding, aluminium composite materials and glass panel systems. The mixed-use nature adds complexity, as commercial and residential facades may differ within the same building.
RICS valuers must address external wall concerns on City residential properties. Given the high values of City apartments and the complex facade systems involved, EWS1 certification is essential for smooth transactions.
RICS building condition surveys for residential and commercial property.
View ServiceParty wall advice for extensions, loft conversions and basement projects.
View ServiceFire risk assessments and cladding remediation advisory services.
View ServiceCosts depend on building height, facade complexity and the mix of residential and commercial elements. City buildings often have sophisticated facade systems that require detailed assessment. We provide fixed-fee quotes after reviewing your building.
Typically two to six weeks from instruction to certificate. Access to City buildings may require coordination with commercial tenants and building management, which can affect timescales.
A B2 rating means remediation is likely required. For mixed-use City buildings, the allocation of remediation costs between commercial and residential elements can be complex. Government CSS and BSF funding may be available for the residential portions.
Only buildings with residential elements over 11 metres or those with specific external wall concerns require EWS1 certification. The Barbican estate and some older residential buildings with traditional facades may be exempt, but most modern City residential developments need assessment.