External Wall Surveys (EWS1) and PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals in Portsmouth
Fire Engineering Consultancy provides EWS1 assessments and PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEWs) for residential and mixed-use buildings throughout Portsmouth and the wider Hampshire region.
We work with building owners, managing agents, housing associations, developers and lenders, providing independent fire engineering assessments of external wall systems and associated fire safety risks.
Our assessments are based on a detailed review of available construction information, external wall materials, fire safety measures and, where necessary, intrusive investigations to establish the wall construction.
EWS1 Assessments in Portsmouth
The EWS1 process was introduced to support the valuation and lending process for residential buildings where concerns may exist regarding the external wall construction.
An EWS1 assessment may include:
- Review of design and construction information
- Inspection of external wall materials and façade systems
- Assessment of cavity barriers and fire-stopping arrangements where accessible
- Intrusive investigations where required to establish the wall build-up
- Completion of the EWS1 form where appropriate
Our team has experience assessing a broad range of residential buildings, including apartment developments, mixed-use schemes and purpose-built student accommodation throughout Portsmouth and Hampshire.
PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEW)
PAS 9980 provides a structured methodology for assessing the risk of fire spread over external wall systems.
A FRAEW considers a range of factors, including:
- External wall construction and materials
- Building height and geometry
- Occupancy profile
- Means of escape arrangements
- Active fire protection measures
- Fire and rescue service access
- Existing risk mitigation measures
The assessment seeks to determine the overall life safety risk associated with the external wall system and whether any further action is required.
Our assessments are undertaken in accordance with PAS 9980 principles and focus on delivering proportionate, evidence-based recommendations that are specific to the building being assessed.
FRAEW Costs
The scope and cost of a FRAEW will vary depending on the building and the level of investigation required.
Factors influencing the assessment commonly include:
- Building height and complexity
- Number and type of external wall systems present
- Availability of design and construction information
- Access requirements
- Extent of intrusive investigations required
Following an initial review, we can provide a clear proposal outlining the recommended scope of work and associated costs.
External Wall Assessment Services Across Hampshire
Our team undertakes external wall assessments throughout Portsmouth, Southampton, Winchester, Basingstoke and the wider Hampshire region.
We regularly assist clients with EWS1 assessments, PAS 9980 appraisals, remediation support and technical advice relating to external wall fire safety.
Contact Us
If you require an EWS1 assessment, PAS 9980 appraisal or advice regarding external wall fire safety in Portsmouth, please contact our team to discuss your building and project requirements.