The Grenfell Tower fire exposed widespread fire safety deficiencies in UK residential buildings. The aftermath has left thousands of flat owners unable to sell or remortgage because lenders require safety evidence.\n\nWhat Is an EWS1 Form — The External Wall System fire review form assesses the external wall system and certifies whether remediation is needed. Completed by a qualified fire engineer, it covers the entire building, not individual flats.\n\nWhen Lenders Require One — Most lenders require EWS1 for flats in buildings over 11 metres with any cladding or external wall material. Some also request them for buildings between 11 and 18 metres with balconies. Requirements vary by lender.\n\nThe Rating System — A1: no combustible materials, mortgage proceeds normally. A2: combustible materials present but risk adequately managed, most lenders proceed. B1: remediation needed but acceptable plan in place. B2: remediation needed, no plan — most lenders will not lend, effectively making the flat unmortgageable.\n\nGovernment Support — The Building Safety Fund covers remediation for buildings over 18 metres. The Cladding Safety Scheme covers 11 to 18 metres. Leaseholders should not pay for historical defects under the Building Safety Act 2022. However, the process of applying, assessing, and completing remediation can take years.\n\nWhat Affected Owners Can Do — Push your management company or freeholder to obtain an EWS1 form and apply for funding. Contact your MP. Check whether your lender has specific policies — Halifax, Nationwide, and NatWest have published policies for buildings in remediation programmes. Consider specialist lenders who take a case-by-case approach.\n\nBuying in Affected Buildings — Factor in risk of delays, difficulty remortgaging, and potential service charge increases for safety works. Obtain the EWS1 form before making an offer. Use a solicitor experienced in leasehold fire safety issues.