Mortgages Without EWS1
Can You Get a Mortgage Without an EWS1
Yes, many lenders will now consider applications without an EWS1 form. The key is understanding which lenders are open to this, what evidence they might need instead, and how to present your case so the process runs smoothly.
At Drummonds Finance Group, we help clients secure mortgages on properties that fall outside the usual criteria. We deal with lenders every day and know which ones will look at alternative evidence or lender-backed surveys instead of an EWS1 form.
Buying or remortgaging a home in a building with cladding can feel overwhelming, especially when you are told you need paperwork that seems impossible to get. One of the most common questions we hear is whether you can still get a mortgage without an EW1 form. The answer is often yes, and this page explains how it works in a clear and reassuring way.
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What Is an EWS1 Form
An EWS1 form is an External Wall Survey form. It records the findings of a fire safety assessment of a building’s external wall system. This applies mainly to apartment blocks or high-rise buildings.
The form gives the building a rating
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A, 1 or 2 means the materials are unlikely to support combustion
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B1 or B2 means combustible materials have been identified
It is not a building safety certificate. It is a document created to assist valuers and lenders when deciding if a flat is suitable security for a mortgage.
The EWS1 form covers an entire building and is usually valid for up to five years.
Who Is Responsible for Getting an EWS1
The building owner or managing agent arranges the survey and holds the form. Leaseholders can request a copy. In Scotland individual owners may need to source the form themselves.
How Do You Know if Your Building Has Cladding
The simplest option is to request the EWS1 form. The rating confirms whether the building contains combustible materials such as cladding or wooden balconies.
Do You Always Need an EWS1 for a Mortgage
No. Lender requirements have changed significantly. Many lenders no longer require an ESW1 form in every case. Whether the form is needed depends on
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the building height
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the materials used
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whether the building is part of a recognised remediation scheme
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The valuer’s assessment on inspection
In January 2023, RICS updated its guidance to valuers. This reduced the number of buildings needing an EWS1 form. Recent government data also shows that only a small percentage of mortgage valuations now require an EWS1.
Selling a Flat Without an EWS1
It is possible to sell a flat without an EWS1. In the past, this was difficult, but lender guidance has changed, and many mortgage applications now proceed without the form, especially where the building is confirmed to be safe or part of a recognised scheme.
However, buyers may still request the form for reassurance, so it is helpful to check early.
How Long Does an EWS1 Take and How Much Does It Cost
There is a shortage of qualified professionals to conduct these surveys. It can take between six and twelve months to obtain an EWS1 form. Costs vary widely and depend on the building size and complexity. Typical starting costs range from around six thousand pounds.
How a Mortgage Broker Helps
We specialise in helping clients secure mortgages on buildings with complex external wall situations. We review the building documentation, speak with managing agents and find lenders who take a common-sense approach.
This saves time and avoids the cost of pursuing a property that cannot be mortgaged.
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Remortgaging and Product Transfers