by Christopher Williams, Managing Director and Commercial Insurance Broker
4 February 2019

• Because safety is of paramount importance
• Because you want to be compliant with the law
• Because you may need guidance

Following the Grenfell tragedy the Government have introduced a ban on combustible cladding materials. This came into effect from 21st December 2018. The ban includes Aluminium Composite Material (ACM). Building owners must remove or replace unsafe cladding from high-rise residential blocks as soon as possible or be liable to intervention from the local authorities.

The ban applies to:-

• ALL new residential buildings above 18m in height  
• New dormitories in boarding schools, student accomodation, registered care homes and hospitals above 18m
• New buidling work being carried out, in line with the definition of building work in the Building Regulations, including changes of use and material alterations.

It is clear in the new regulations that owners must remove ACM cladding or provide a plan for its removal. Local authorities would be expected to take enforcement action, carry out emergency remedial work and then recover the costs from the owner of the building.

The Government is still identifying buildings that need rectification. If you are aware that your building has combustible cladding it is essential to start planning its removal now. 

It is of utmost importance to comply with legal requirements to ensure your insurance remains valid.

For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/government/…