Fire risk appraisal of external walls

Before thinking about opening up an external wall, we establish what is already known. Our fire engineers review available architectural and construction drawings, building control information, the previous FRAEW survey if there is one, specification, and any other relevant documentation to understand the building’s age, construction, height, occupancy, and external wall makeup. Where information is missing, we identify gaps that need to be resolved through further investigation.

Wherever visual inspection and documentation cannot establish the construction, targeted opening up works can provide the evidence needed to understand concealed materials and interfaces. We select locations across relevant wall types and elevations to create a representative picture of the building, rather than relying on a small number of openings that may not reflect its wider construction

The external wall cannot be assessed in isolation. Our FRAEW survey considers its potential contribution to fire spread, alongside factors including building height, fire service access, facade configuration, internal compartmentation, evacuation strategy, occupancy, and the characteristics and requirements of the people using the building. Bringing all these factors together enables us to understand the actual risk in the setting, rather than simply assessing whether individual materials meet specification.

It is not the purpose of a FRAEW to prescribe the most extensive or expansive remediation route. Once the evidence has been established and the risk understood, our fire engineers apply professional judgment to determine which action is proportionate to make the building and its occupants safe. Where remedial is required, we help you understand the risks and support you through the next steps, always mindful of your budget and the priorities of the building and its occupants.