External Wall Surveys (EWS1) and PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals in Southampton
Fire Engineering Consultancy provides EWS1 assessments and PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEWs) for residential and mixed-use buildings throughout Southampton and the wider Hampshire region.
We work with building owners, managing agents, housing providers, 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 and the building’s overall fire safety strategy.
EWS1 Assessments in Southampton
The EWS1 process was introduced to support the valuation and lending process for residential buildings where concerns may exist regarding the external wall construction.
Depending on the building and the information available, an 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 wide range of residential buildings, including apartment developments, purpose-built student accommodation and mixed-use schemes throughout Southampton 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 approach follows the principles of PAS 9980 and focuses 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, investigation requirements and associated costs.
External Wall Assessment Services Across Hampshire
Our team undertakes external wall assessments throughout Southampton, Portsmouth, 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 Southampton, please contact our team to discuss your project requirements.