Understanding the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS) for Leaseholders in 11-18m Buildings
In the wake of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, the UK Government has been proactive in initiating several funding programmes aimed at addressing cladding issues and improving overall building safety. Among these initiatives is the recently launched Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS), which targets buildings in England that stand between 11 and 18 meters tall.
Although the closing date for applications has not been announced, we encourage individuals to begin the process to understand whether your building is eligible and how you can apply for funding now. This blog post is dedicated to emphasising the key elements of the CSS, ensuring leaseholders are well-informed and aware of the vital steps required should their residence fall within the parameters of the fund.
Homes England launched this scheme on 25th July 2023, to provide financial support to replace potentially hazardous external wall systems. This blog offers guidance and essential knowledge for those that may be impacted by this initiative and explains the steps needed to access funding and make homes safer.
What is the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS)?
The Cladding Safety Scheme is a government initiative designed to fund the remediation of unsafe cladding on buildings where a responsible developer cannot be identified, traced, or held accountable. The CSS specifically targets buildings between 11m and 18m in height.
Certain ‘pledge’ developers have committed to remediate life-critical fire safety defects in buildings they have played a role in developing or refurbishing over the last 30 years in England. As part of this commitment, they will also reimburse any funding they receive from government remediation programmes related to these buildings.
The Evolution of the Scheme
Originally launched in November 2022 as a pilot scheme known as the Medium Rise Scheme (MRS) the initiative was fully launched as the Cladding Safety Scheme in July 2023. The pilot allowed the Government to test processes and systems before the full launch of the CSS.
Eligibility and Application Process
As of now, the CSS is fully open for eligible buildings over 11 meters outside of London and those between 11 and 18 meters within the Greater London authority area. It covers the cost of remediating or mitigating fire risks associated with externally clad walls (as identified by a FRAEW report) when a responsible developer cannot be identified.
Applying to the CSS requires the involvement of the building's Responsible Entity. This entity can be the freeholder, head leaseholder, right-to-manage company (RTM), resident management company (RMC), or a registered provider of social housing, such as a local authority or housing association.
What about Buildings Under 11m?
Buildings under 11 meters are generally considered by government to pose a lower risk to life.
Determining Eligibility
Leaseholders can use the leaseholder eligibility checker to determine the support available for their building. If you believe your property is eligible, it's crucial to get in touch with your Responsible Entity and encourage them to make an application to the CSS.
Independent Information and Support
Leaseholders or residents with concerns have the option to seek free initial specialist advice regarding their rights from the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE). More information about LEASE, including how to get in touch with them, can be found on their website, which also provides a compilation of the latest frequently asked questions. Following this preliminary consultation, if you, as a leaseholder, feel the need for your property manager to conduct further investigations, do request that they contact Inside the Box. Our team are equipped to offer additional support and guidance to your property manager, ensuring you navigate through the Cladding Safety Scheme with ease and clear understanding.
How Inside the Box can help
Once you have determined eligibility and contacted your managing agent, Inside the Box can provide valuable assistance to managing agents, landlords, RMCs or RMTs in co-ordinating the project team and potentially helping to secure grant funding from the 11-18m cladding safety scheme. Inside the Box’s knowledgeable project management team has developed expertise and efficient processes to make and progress the complex funding applications successfully.
The Cladding Safety Scheme is a significant step towards ensuring the safety of residents in buildings with unsafe cladding. As a leaseholder, understanding the CSS and reaching out to the Responsible Entity can play a vital first step in helping to secure funding for remediation works. If you believe your building may be eligible for the scheme, take action and help to ensure your home can be sold and becomes a safer place to live.
Leaseholders, prompt action is key in navigating the Cladding Safety Scheme (CSS). Ask your Resident Management Company (RMC) or property manager to contact Inside the Box for expert CSS advice. Contact Charles at charles@itboxadvisory.co.uk or Kiara at kiara@itboxadvisory.co.uk.
