Scottish Government to review safety of high rise buildings

No doubt you will be saddened and shocked by the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in London. The Scottish Government tells us it is very keen to learn lessons from this catastrophic fire.

On 15 June Kevin Stewart MSP, Minister for Local Government, Housing and Building Standards issued a statement to all local authorities in Scotland announcing that the Cabinet Secretary for Communities, Social Security and Equalities will convene a short term ministerial working group to review Scottish regulations, ensuring they are robust and that necessary actions are taken.

In particular, Kevin Stewart MSP has asked all Scottish local authorities to report to him on the number of high rise domestic buildings, their original construction and what remedial works have been carried out identifying the materials and construction techniques used. No doubt these findings will lead to further tightening up of building regulations and retrofitting existing buildings to ensure people’s safety.

If you are concerned about letting properties in high rise developments, contact the your local authority or a surveyor for advice.