Housing Safety Checks 20/06/2017
Following the recent incident at Grenfell Tower in London, Arun District Council is taking steps to reassure council tenants and leaseholders and undertaking urgent fire safety checks.
The Council does not own any high rise buildings (over 6 floors), so no direct comparison to Grenfell Tower can be made. However for tenants and leaseholders peace of mind, we can offer reassurance that all of the cladding we use meets current building/fire safety standards.
Cllr Trevor Bence, Cabinet Member for Residential Services said “We are all truly shocked and saddened by the tragic incident at Grenfell Tower. Our thoughts are very much with all those that have lost their lives and those that now must live with what happened.
“Arun District Council would like to reassure our tenants and leaseholders that we have used contractors and materials that comply with the current building/fire safety standards, but we are taking extra precautions by checking the installation and fitting of the cladding and of course will remedy anything that may come to light during this exercise in connection with fire safety, as a matter of urgency.“
Tenants and leaseholders in council properties that have any form of cladding, will receive a letter providing information about the actions that are being taken as set out below:
The Council will:
- Undertake checks at blocks which have been clad. In particular to ensure that there are fire breaks between floors of the flats
- Review fire risk assessments to ensure that all actions and recommendations have been put in place. We may carry out further assessments in some blocks
- Continue to update residents once our investigations are complete
This means:
- Tenants and leaseholders may see contractors around where they live. At this stage it is not envisaged that access to homes will be required.
- A clear corridor policy will be enforced to ensure all stairs and corridors are safe to use in the event of a fire. Residents are encouraged to clear any personal possessions that may be stored in communal areas.
Arun District Council would like to reassure tenants and leaseholders that their welfare and safety is of the highest importance. Concerns or questions should be raised by phoning the Housing Repairs team on 01903 737827.