The UK Government is speeding up the process of removing unsafe cladding from buildings, addressing long-standing safety concerns. If you own a property, especially in a multi-occupancy building, these changes could impact you.
Following our guide ‘Understanding Cladding: What Landlords Need to Know’, our Landlord Insurance and Block of Flats Insurance experts explore what landlords and property owners need to know about cladding remediation updates and what steps you might need to take.
What’s happening?
The government’s new plans include:
- Faster Progress: Remediation work to replace unsafe cladding will be completed more quickly
- Regular Updates: Building managers must keep property owners and residents informed about progress
- Funding Support: Help is available through the Building Safety Fund, easing financial pressure on leaseholders
- Tighter Deadlines: Developers and building managers face stricter timelines to complete the work
How it affects property owners
If your building has unsafe cladding, making it safe is crucial to protect lives and meet legal requirements. Here are some things to be aware of as a property owner:
Costs
Government funding can help, but some property owners may need to contribute, especially if their building isn’t eligible for support schemes.
Insurance
Unsafe cladding can raise your building insurance costs or make it harder to get cover. Once the work is done, review your policy to ensure it reflects the updated safety status.
Legal implications
Failing to act could lead to penalties or legal issues, so staying informed and proactive is vital.
5 actions you should take
- Check Your Building: Talk to your building manager or freeholder to confirm if unsafe cladding is an issue
- Stay Updated: Ensure you’re getting regular progress updates from the building management team
- Review Insurance: Speak to your broker to make sure your cover is appropriate during and after remediation
- Explore Funding: Make sure to check if you’re eligible for government support to help with costs
- Prepare for Disruption: If work is needed, plan for any inconvenience during the process
Why act now?
Addressing cladding issues isn’t just about meeting regulations—it’s about safety.
For a detailed overview of these changes and to ensure compliance, please refer to the official government website for comprehensive information on safety regulations and guidelines.
About Lansdown Insurance Brokers
Lansdown Insurance Brokers are specialists in Landlords Insurance, Block of Flats Insurance and Home Insurance. We can provide flexible policies to suit individual client needs and provide advice on what cover is needed. For more information call the team on 01242 524498.
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