Can You Get a Mortgage Without an EWS1 Form in 2025

If you have ever considered buying a flat in a block with cladding, you already know how confusing the EWS1 situation can be. Some people say you need it. Some say you do not. Some say it is impossible to get. Others say their mortgage sailed through without anyone mentioning it.

So, what is actually true in 2025, and can you still get a mortgage without this form? Let’s clear it all up in simple, friendly language.

So What Is the EWS1 Form and Why Does Everyone Mention It

An EWS1 form is a specialist report that assesses the external walls of a building. It was introduced after national fire safety changes to help valuers determine whether a building's exterior contains materials that could pose a risk.

It is not a building safety certificate. It is not a legal requirement to own a flat. It is simply a document that some lenders use when deciding whether they will lend on a property.

The problem is that many buildings were never reviewed or are still waiting for assessments, and the number of qualified professionals who can do the work is small. That is why people get stuck.

Do You Always Need an EWS1 in 2025

No. Not at all.

This is one of the biggest myths in the property world. Updated guidance from lenders and valuers means that an EWS1 is no longer automatically required for every flat.

Here is what the market actually looks like now

• Many lenders will lend without an EWS1 if the building is part of a government-backed remediation scheme.

• Buildings with no unsafe cladding often pass without any issue

• Lower-rise blocks are rarely asked for the form unless there is a clear concern

• Internal lender assessments are more common now

• Some lenders have stopped blanket requests completely

So it comes down to the building, the materials, the remediation plan and the lender you use.

Why Some Flats Get Mortgages Easily and Others Do Not

Two flats in two different blocks can have completely different outcomes. Here is why

• One building may already be signed up for a remediation contract

• Another may have a clear fire risk assessment

• Another may have no cladding at all

• Another may have historic cladding but no current risk

• Some managing agents provide excellent paperwork

• Others provide very little

• Some lenders take a common-sense view

• Others are still cautious

This is why using a broker who deals with this daily is incredibly helpful. We know which lenders take which approach and how to present the case correctly.

Can You Sell a Flat Without an EWS1 Form

Yes. It is absolutely possible.

The market was slow years ago, but buyers today have far more lender options and far more transparency about cladding remediation. Many sellers complete without an EWS1 as long as the building has clear information or is already in a government-recognised programme.

It may take slightly longer if the paperwork is unclear, but it is not the impossible situation it used to be.

What If Your Valuer Asks For One

A valuer can still request an EWS1 if they see something that raises a question, such as unusual materials or evidence of past cladding.

But this does not mean the mortgage is dead.

We often speak directly to lenders and provide

• alternative building documentation

• confirmation of remediation plans

• information from the managing agent

• professional fire assessments

• details of protection schemes

Many lenders accept this rather than insisting on the complete EWS1 process.

Why Buyers Should Check Early

If you are viewing flats, especially in urban areas, always ask for

• the latest fire risk assessment

• Any remediation updates

• Any information from the managing agent

• evidence of government scheme registration

• Any past EWS1 reports, if available

This allows you to avoid surprises later. We can also check the lender's appetite for the building before you make an offer.

Why Using a Mortgage Broker Helps More Than Ever

This is one of the rare areas in mortgage work where experience really matters.

A good broker will

• know which lenders accept buildings without EWS1

• understand what paperwork is needed

• Speak to valuers

• review building information for you

• present the case in a way lenders understand

• avoid wasted valuation fees

• guide you from first viewing to completion

At Drummonds Finance Group, we deal with these cases all the time across Oxford, Bicester and the wider UK. We make the situation simple so you can move forward with confidence.

Check out our ESW1 Page