Following on from the tragic incident of the fire at Grenfell Tower flats we can confirm that within the bdht stock we do not have any buildings over 18 m in height (3-storeys) that have been externally clad. For those buildings where we have installed external insulation we can confirm that the system is not the same system that was used on the Grenfell flats, nor is it in any way similar. It is a render based system where the insulation product is fixed directly to the wall with a fire resistant mechanical fixing and then coated with an external cement render. It has been approved by building control and meets all of the current building regulations.

As required by the Department of Communities and Local Government we provided full information on Monday, 19th June and received from them confirmation of our nil status.

As a number of queries have been raised in relation to wider issues of fire prevention we believe it is appropriate to update you with bdht’s current practices. Every individual flat is provided with a smoke detector which is designed to ensure early identification of any fire related difficulty. All communal areas have been subject to fire risk assessments (FRA) which have been carried out by an independent third party and have been audited by an external auditor. The purpose of the risk assessment is to ensure that the way in which our communal areas are managed in relation to fire detection and control is in accordance with the required regulations (the Regulatory Reform (safety) Order) RRO. The fire risk assessments, which are carried out on a maximum 3-year frequency, are reviewed annually and if there are any material changes to the building or layout in accordance with the RRO. We can confirm that we are 100% compliant with any recommendation that has arisen from the current fire risk assessment.

Although a technical issue, fire risk management is dealt with through passive and active measures and as a result buildings can be designed differently in respect of the measures that are in place. Therefore you may see things that appear to be different between similar buildings. We can assure you that we have carried out the FRA for every single block of flats but if you have any individual query please do not hesitate to email:

Gary Fowler, Director of Asset Management – gary.fowler@bdht.co.uk
or Barry Stevens, Head of Asset Management – barry.stevens@bdht.co.uk

MIKE BROWN
Chief Executive

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