Cladding in Scotland

What is Cladding?

What is cladding?

Cladding is the term used to describe a system that is attached to an exterior wall of a building, forming an outer surface. These systems are generally used to help improve a property’s insulation or to enhance a building’s visual exterior by adding a weather-resistant layer to the primary structure.

The dangers involved in the use of cladding came to light following the Grenfell Tower disaster in London in 2017. Sometimes materials used in cladding can catch fire and burn easily, as was the case with Grenfell, posing a fire risk to those living and working inside a building with cladding.

A property with cladding doesn’t naturally pose a fire risk. Some cladding systems are constructed using safe materials and fire-prevention components. Cladding only becomes a problem when it isn’t safely fixed to the outer walls of a building, or when it consists of flammable materials.

EWS1 Form

What is an EWS1 Form?

An EWS1 Form (External Wall System Fire Review) assesses and certifies how at-risk a building is to fire. Aside from the safety practicalities of this form, lenders now require this document as proof before they approve mortgages for buyers looking to buy a  property with cladding in Scotland.

A qualified engineer or surveyor will assess the cladding on your property and determine if any work needs to be carried out to the external walls of your property for it to meet the required safety standards. Although having an EWS1 Form is not a legal requirement, you will need one if you wanted to remortgage your property or if you are trying to sell. Lenders aren’t too keen to approve a mortgage for a property with cladding in Scotland that doesn’t have an EWS1 certification, and cash buyers look for this too to ensure they are making a safe investment. So, if you are thinking of selling, it’s important to secure this service as soon as possible.

Selling with Cladding

Selling your property with cladding in Scotland

Selling your property with cladding doesn’t need to be complicated. Once the correct steps are taken, the process can be as straightforward as any other sale. However, for this to happen, you need to choose an estate agent with a proven track record in selling properties with cladding in Scotland. This is where we come in.

At Watermans, our estate agency team are experts in selling properties with cladding. We can advise you during your pre-sale valuation on whether your property will require EWS1 certification, and we are more than happy to speak to a cladding specialist on your behalf – so you have one less thing to worry about.

Ready to market?

Sell your home with us today

There are several steps you need to take when it comes to selling your home. You can rest assured that Watermans will assist and provide professional, friendly advice and guidance at every stage.

Whether it is your first time selling a property or even if you are well-versed in selling and buying houses, we will be with you every step of the way, from our initial meeting with you to when you hand the keys over.

Get started with your property sale today by calling us on 0131 555 7055 – or organise your pre-sale valuation by filling out the form below!