Ministerial Working Group on Mortgage Lending and Cladding: questions answered

Acronyms and definitions

 ‘Cladding’ or ‘cladding systems’

When referring to “cladding” in this situation, people are generally referring to the outer cladding of external wall systems found on modern buildings, but it can also mean the whole system, including external materials (cladding boards, render, etc.), insulation, fixings, cavity barriers and fire stopping at openings.  Spandrel panels that form part of the external wall of the building should also be included.  This generally does not include the structural wall or frame, including steel frame, concrete frame, timber frame or structural masonry.  Masonry and concrete cladding finishes on buildings are not within scope as they are not combustible and can be assessed readily through visual inspection.  Other non-combustible materials such as granite cladding may need to be assessed to discount it as a risk, depending on the method of construction.  Buildings can have a range of cladding materials over the surface and they should all be considered in a Single Building Assessment.

EWS1           Sometimes referred to as EWS1 form or EWS1 process.  The process, resulting in an EWS1 Report is to enable mortgage valuations of flats in blocks affected by potentially unsafe cladding. It provides a way for those selling property with external wall systems such as cladding to show that these have been assessed by an expert. 

FAQ             Frequently asked questions

MCM            Metal composite material

MCM-PE       Metal composite material with a polyethylene core (also known as category 3 cladding for fire safety purposes)

RICS            Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors

RSL              Registered Social Landlord

SBA             Single Building Assessment

UK               United Kingdom