New training aids cladding assessment

Members have embarked on the initial phase of an RICS programme to help them assess external wall systems for shorter low- to medium-risk residential buildings

Author:

Heigor Freitas

18 February 2021

Building control

Building surveying

Fire safety

Learning and development

In recent years, RICS has been actively engaged in improving standards and equipping professionals in the fire safety sector internationally, contributing significantly to the development of the International Fire Safety Standards (IFSS) and consulting on UK guidance for the valuation of properties in multi-storey, multi-occupancy residential buildings with cladding.

In November, RICS announced plans to collaborate with the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) and other and other relevant stakeholders in the industry to deliver a training programme on external wall system (EWS) assessment.

The programme has been designed for chartered surveyors with underpinning knowledge and competencies in fire safety and construction, and intends to upskill these professionals so they are able to undertake EWS assessments on low- and medium-risk residential buildings below 18m.

The first phase

The initial group of professionals started the programme in January, and there are now 300 undertaking the training with additional groups to be enrolled.

The structure covers the key elements of pre-inspection, inspection and post-inspection, the relevant standards, regulation and industry guidance, products, and testing. It also includes detailed training on the EWS1 forms that must be used to prove that cladding systems on low- and medium-risk residential buildings below 18m have been assessed by an expert.

To complete the training programme successfully, participants will take both a knowledge-based test and written assessment, which will be reviewed by an experienced faculty of professionals in this field.

Those who successfully complete the programme and pass the assessments will be awarded a level 6 qualification in EWS assessment, and will have their professional details added to a list that will be available to the public.

Members have responded positively to the programme, with more than 1,300 professionals registering their interest to date from more than 800 different firms throughout the UK.

Increasing confidence

This formal qualification is one of the steps we are taking to support professionals and firms working with EWS to increase confidence among insurers, investors, lenders, valuers, owners and tenants.

RICS is also working with MHCLG and other stakeholders to address concerns about EWS and professional indemnity insurance. For the latest updates, please refer to the RICS cladding fire safety FAQs.

Similarly, RICS and other bodies are collaborating to find ways of expanding the programme to relevant professionals with similar knowledge and qualifications, to increase the number working in this area. With MHCLG's financial support, we intend to train up to 2,000 professionals in the next six months.