header-logo header-logo

20 May 2020 / Alec Samuels
Issue: 7887 / Categories: Features , Health & safety
printer mail-detail

Grenfell & the cladding problem

21129
The lessons from Grenfell Tower must be learned & the hardship suffered by those living in cladded blocks must be alleviated says Alec Samuels

The Grenfell Tower fire of 14-15 June 2017, due to the inflammable cladding, led to the death of 72 people.

The tragedy had consequences for many leaseholders in the private sector throughout the country. They have had to pay for a waking fire watch, new fire alarms, new water sprinkler systems, new fire doors, and huge service charges for the removal and replacement of cladding. They have fallen into negative equity, unable to mortgage or remortgage their property, unable to sell or let for rent, and unable to insure, except at astronomic premiums. They suffer stress and anguish, financial hardship and even ruin, homelessness, calamity. Potential mortgagees require a fire risk certificate, and because of the shortage of qualified and indemnified engineers there is considerable delay and difficulty in obtaining the certificate. In addition to the law, issues of morality and ethics and social justice are involved.

Liability

Government

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Katten Muchin Rosenman—Charlotte Hill

Katten Muchin Rosenman—Charlotte Hill

Katten strengthens financial markets and funds group in London

Hugh James—Keith Cundall & Lee Hart

Hugh James—Keith Cundall & Lee Hart

Hugh James expands national Serious Injury team with two new Partners

HFW—Rémi Ducloyer

HFW—Rémi Ducloyer

HFW continues Paris office growth with public law Partner hire

NEWS
The Court of Appeal's decision in Mazur v Charles Russell Speechlys LLP has lifted months of uncertainty for Chartered Legal Executives while prompting a rethink of regulation and supervision
The assisted dying debate returns to Westminster as Lauren Edwards MP reintroduces legislation that stalled in the House of Lords last session despite clearing the Commons
A little-noticed provision of the Crime and Policing Act 2026 has fundamentally expanded corporate criminal liability
Artificial intelligence is transforming legal practice, but careless reliance on it is creating growing professional risks
The law offers cohabiting couples surprisingly greater protection after one partner dies than when they separate during life
back-to-top-scroll