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Following our recent Building Compliance Round Up 2026 webinar, we've gathered answers to the questions submitted by attendees during the live session. The webinar explored key compliance challenges, emerging risks, and regulatory developments affecting the built environment. Our expert panel included Robert Thilthorpe from the Fire Industry Association (FIA), who discussed plug-in solar panels, battery storage, and associated fire safety considerations; Denley Nunn of Cygnus Systems, who provided insight into the Interim Measures Alarm Fund (IMAF) and interim fire alarm solutions; and Steven Wilson, Technical & Compliance Director at Ventro, who delivered a roundup of key regulatory updates, including the Building Safety Levy, Awaab's Law, BS 7671 Amendment 4, and changes to Approved Document B. Below, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions from the session and provide practical guidance on the topics discussed. Q1: For a rental property, could tenants ask their landlord for permission? Alternatively, if the back garden is large enough and has no trees, could they be placed there to reduce the risk if they catch fire? Yes, tenants can request permission from their landlord, and we would recommend this being best practice. Any necessary landlord, freeholder or planning consent should be obtained before installation. A garden may be a suitable alternative, but the absence of trees is not, by itself, evidence that the installation is safe. Our recommendation would be to check the approved mounting method, separation from combustible materials, cable route, weather exposure and the manufacturer’s instructions before agreeing a location. Only a compliant product should be used; this does not cover plug-in batteries. Worth noting that you might move the risk to your neighbours, depending on the garden specifically! Q2: How can the problem of festooning cables be addressed? A competent contractor should assess the complete cable route and its supports, not just the cables themselves, against BS 7671 Regulation 521.10.202. If the question instead concerns loose solar-panel leads, we would always recommend a planned, securely supported route that avoids trip hazards and damage, with the connection arrangement checked against the product instructions. Q3: What about HMOs, where each room is classed as a separate household? We would not treat each separately let room as automatically entitled to its own system. The relevant network connection and the building’s electrical installation need to be checked; Ofgem’s network approval does not, by itself, establish electrical safety within the premises. Our recommendation would be that the landlord asks a competent electrician and the distribution network operator to confirm the permitted arrangement for the particular HMO before residents connect equipment, especially where rooms share circuits or a supply. Q4: For HRBs, do BSC reports need to be updated each time a resident has these installed, due to the impact on the fire load? Is planning permission required if a resident clips them over the balcony balustrade? This is a great question, our recommendation would be that the principal accountable person reviews the proposed installation and records its effect on those risks, updating the assessments and report where necessary; We would not assume that every installation requires a complete report rewrite. Clipping panels to a balcony does not establish that planning permission is unnecessary: Government guidance expressly identifies these permissions as matters to check before installation. Q5: Robert, does the FIA offer training for installers with no previous experience? Yes. The FIA’s Level 3 BS 5839-1 Fundamentals Qualification is aimed at new and aspiring fire detection and alarm technicians and provides an introduction to the sector and the standard. It comprises two training units and an examination. It is worth noting that FIA training would focus on fire safety specifically, if you are exploring training for electrical works then the ECA are a great organisation for electrical training. Q6: Can an alarm system can replace a waking watch? Yes, this is the purpose of IMAF. A BS 5839-1 L5 interim alarm can replace a waking watch, or reduce the need for one, provided the fire risk assessment supports it and the other mitigation measures are in place. Q7: Would this retrospectively cover alarms installed to remove a waking watch? In this case, the alarms were installed in May, and the fire risk assessor and fire service signed off the removal of the waking watch in July. No. IMAF doesn’t fund alarms that are already installed. Homes England confirmed this in August. Buildings that have already had Waking Watch Replacement Fund money aren’t eligible either. Q8: Can a temporary L5 system be installed in an HRB without BSR approval, with a GW application submitted retrospectively? Given the known delays with BSR applications, could this be a fair and cost-effective approach when time is a priority? No. You need BSR approval before work starts, and there’s no retrospective sign-off route for HRBs. The emergency repairs exemption covers repairs, not new systems. Q9: Who should carry out the survey if my organisation plans to install IMAF in some of our buildings? A competent, third-party accredited fire alarm company should survey, design, install and commission the system to BS 5839-1 L5. The quote has to come from a company on the IMAF approved panel. Involve your fire risk assessor too, since the FRA or FRAEW has to identify the need for the alarm. Ventro are approved IMAF installers and our sister company Firntec are able to carry out all relevant surveys required for your application. Q10: Has the performance of wireless systems in concrete buildings improved? Yes. Modern systems use mesh networking, so every device relays signals and there are multiple routes back to the panel. That makes them far more resilient in concrete and steel structures. A radio site survey is still essential, as per BS 5839-1. Q11: Steven, I understand that the levy applies to new buildings. For student accommodation that meets the criteria, does it apply only to new buildings, or to existing buildings as well? For England’s Building Safety Levy, it is not limited to constructing an entirely new building. Qualifying development that creates new purpose-built student accommodation bedspaces through an extension or conversion of an existing building can also fall within scope, subject to the charging conditions, exemptions and transitional rules. An existing student building does not attract the levy simply because it exists or remains occupied. Work that does not provide new dwellings or new purpose-built student accommodation bedspaces is outside the levy information and charging requirements described in the developer guidance. I recommend confirming the treatment of the specific proposal with the collecting local authority. Q12: For legacy PoE installations designed and installed before BS 7671 A4, what is expected in practice? Are organisations expected to assess these systems retrospectively against the new requirements? If so, what should the review cover, and what would trigger remedial action? As a practical review, our recommendation would be that a competent electrical specialist checks the original design and test records, power-source suitability, connected loads, cable and connector ratings, bundle sizes and operating temperatures, environmental conditions, supports and fire-stopping. Remedial action should follow identified danger or deterioration, overheating or damage, unsuitable components, or a proposed increase in load that the existing installation cannot safely support, not its age alone. Record the findings, any limitations and the reasons for action or continued use; confirm the detailed assessment against the published standard before issuing this answer. _____________ Thank you to everyone who joined our Building Compliance Round Up 2026 webinar, and a special thank you to our expert speakers, Robert Thilthorpe, Denley Nunn, and Steven Wilson, for sharing their knowledge and insights on some of the most important developments in building safety and compliance. We hope you found the session valuable and the Q&A responses helpful. If you would like to stay informed about upcoming webinars, roundtables, and industry events hosted by Ventro, be sure to register your interest via our Future Events Interest Form.
Awaab's Law Phase 2 comes into force on 30th November 2026, introducing new requirements for social housing landlords across England. Expanding beyond damp and mould, the legislation will bring additional health and safety hazards into scope, including fire safety, electrical hazards, structural risks and temperature-related concerns. With the implementation date approaching, housing providers must review their existing compliance arrangements, understand the expanded requirements and ensure they have the resources and processes in place to respond within the statutory timeframes for each hazard. What Is Awaab's Law? Awaab's Law was introduced following the tragic death of two-year-old Awaab Ishak in 2020, who died after prolonged exposure to mould in his family's social housing property. The legislation places specific legal obligations on social housing landlords to investigate and address certain health and safety hazards within prescribed timescales. Phase 1 came into force on 27 October 2025, introducing requirements for significant damp and mould hazards and all emergency hazards, excluding overcrowding. Phase 2, which takes effect on 30th November 2026, significantly expands the range of significant hazards covered by these requirements. The legislation is being introduced in stages, with a further expansion to remaining Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) hazards, excluding overcrowding, planned for 2027. What Does Awaab's Law Phase 2 Introduce? From 30th November 2026, social housing landlords must comply with Awaab's Law requirements for a broader range of significant hazards. The additional categories include: Fire and Explosion Hazards Fire safety risks within individual homes will fall within the expanded requirements. This could include defective or missing smoke alarms and other fire hazards that present a significant risk to residents. Importantly, Awaab's Law does not duplicate existing fire safety legislation governing communal areas and other parts of buildings covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Housing providers must therefore understand which legislation applies to different areas of their buildings and ensure appropriate arrangements are in place to identify and address fire safety deficiencies. Electrical Hazards Electrical safety is another important addition to Phase 2, covering significant risks associated with electrical installations and equipment within social housing properties. Examples could include exposed wiring, unsafe electrical installations, damaged sockets and other electrical defects that present a significant risk of injury. Housing providers should ensure electrical inspections, maintenance programmes and remedial works are effectively coordinated, particularly where urgent safety concerns are identified. Structural Collapse and Falling Elements Phase 2 introduces significant hazards associated with structural collapse and falling building elements. These could include deteriorating structural components, unstable building elements or other defects that create a significant risk of injury to residents. Housing associations may need to commission specialist building surveys or structural assessments to establish the severity of identified defects and determine appropriate remedial measures. Excess Cold and Excess Heat Temperature-related hazards will also fall within the expanded requirements. Excess cold can arise from inadequate heating, poor insulation or building defects, while excess heat may be associated with overheating, inadequate ventilation or other property-related issues. Housing providers should review how these concerns are identified and managed, particularly where vulnerable residents may be disproportionately affected. Falls and Domestic Hygiene Phase 2 also extends to significant hazards involving falls, including falls on level surfaces, stairs and between levels. Domestic hygiene hazards, including personal hygiene and food safety, will also be covered. These may arise from defective sanitary facilities, drainage problems or other conditions affecting the safe use of a property. The inclusion of these hazards reinforces the importance of a comprehensive approach to property condition, maintenance and resident safety. What Are the Compliance Timescales Under Awaab's Law? The expanded scope of Phase 2 does not simply introduce additional hazards. It also requires housing providers to apply strict investigation, communication and remediation processes to a wider range of reported issues. The key statutory timescales are: Requirement Timescale Investigate potential emergency hazards and complete relevant safety work Within 24 hours of becoming aware Investigate potential significant hazards Within 10 working days Provide a written summary of investigation findings, where required Within 3 working days of the investigation concluding Complete relevant safety work for significant hazards Within 5 working days of the investigation concluding Begin or take steps to begin preventative works Within 5 working days of the investigation concluding Begin preventative works where starting within 5 working days is not reasonably practicable As soon as reasonably practicable, and within 12 weeks These timescales should be treated as maximum periods rather than targets. Where a hazard presents an immediate or particularly serious risk, landlords should respond sooner. It is also important to distinguish between making a property safe and completing the permanent works necessary to prevent a hazard from recurring. For example, temporary measures may be appropriate to remove an immediate risk while more extensive remedial works are arranged. However, temporary repairs do not remove the obligation to address underlying defects where further work is required. Where relevant safety work cannot be completed within the required timeframe, landlords may also be required to secure suitable alternative accommodation for affected residents. How Can Housing Associations Prepare for Awaab's Law Phase 2? With the 30th November deadline fast approaching, housing associations and local authorities should be reviewing their existing arrangements to ensure they can identify, investigate and address the additional hazards covered by the legislation. 1. Review Existing Building Safety and Compliance Data Housing providers should begin by reviewing their existing property condition information, including fire risk assessments, electrical inspection reports, stock condition surveys and outstanding remedial works. This information can help identify properties where known defects may fall within the expanded scope of Awaab's Law. Particular attention should be given to outstanding high-risk defects, recurring maintenance issues and properties where previous surveys have identified concerns that have not yet been fully resolved. Existing information should be used to support risk-based prioritisation, rather than relying solely on residents reporting problems. 2. Identify Gaps in Inspection and Survey Programmes The expansion of Awaab's Law may expose gaps in existing property inspection arrangements. Housing providers should consider whether their current survey programmes provide sufficient information to identify potential fire, electrical, structural and other significant hazards. Where information is incomplete or outdated, additional surveys or specialist inspections may be necessary. For example, a housing association may have an established programme of fire risk assessments but limited information about structural defects or electrical hazards within individual dwellings. A coordinated approach to building surveys can help organisations understand their risks and prioritise further investigations. 3. Review Hazard Reporting and Escalation Procedures Housing associations must ensure that reported hazards are correctly identified, assessed and escalated within the required timeframes. This includes reviewing how resident concerns are received, how potential emergency and significant hazards are classified, and how cases are passed to relevant technical teams or contractors. Staff responsible for resident communications, repairs, maintenance and compliance should understand the expanded hazard categories and know when specialist advice is required. Organisations should also consider how they record decisions, monitor statutory deadlines and demonstrate that appropriate action has been taken. 4. Ensure Contractors Can Meet Statutory Response Times One of the most important considerations for housing providers will be their ability to mobilise competent contractors quickly enough to meet the requirements. The expansion into fire safety, electrical hazards and structural risks means housing associations may need access to a wider range of specialist expertise, often at short notice. Existing contractor arrangements should be reviewed to establish whether they provide sufficient capacity, geographical coverage and technical competence. Where multiple contractors are responsible for different compliance disciplines, clear escalation procedures and defined responsibilities will be essential. This highlights the benefits of working with a single compliance partner such as Ventro, which can provide expertise across multiple compliance disciplines, helping housing providers streamline contractor management, improve coordination and respond more efficiently to identified hazards within the required timescales. 5. Develop a Coordinated Approach to Remedial Works Identifying a hazard is only the first stage of compliance. Housing providers must also ensure that necessary works are completed within the relevant statutory timescales. This may involve immediate safety measures, specialist investigations and more extensive permanent remediation. For example, an electrical inspection may identify an unsafe installation requiring urgent isolation and subsequent replacement. Similarly, a structural assessment may identify a defect requiring temporary safety measures before permanent repairs can be completed. Housing associations should ensure their survey, maintenance and remedial works programmes are effectively connected, reducing delays between identifying a defect and resolving it. 6. Strengthen Resident Communication and Record Keeping Awaab's Law places considerable emphasis on keeping residents informed. Housing providers must ensure residents receive required written investigation summaries and are kept updated on the progress and expected timescales of remedial works. Clear records of reported hazards, inspection findings, contractor attendance, access attempts and completed works will be important in demonstrating compliance. Resident circumstances must also be considered when assessing hazards. A condition that presents a significant risk to one household may require a different response for another, particularly where children, older residents or individuals with additional health needs are involved. Why a Proactive Approach to Building Compliance Matters The introduction of Phase 2 reinforces the importance of moving beyond reactive maintenance towards a more coordinated approach to building safety. For housing associations managing large property portfolios, identifying and resolving hazards can involve several different teams, contractors and specialist disciplines. Without effective coordination, delays can arise between the initial report, technical investigation and completion of remedial works. Taking a proactive approach to surveys, risk identification and planned maintenance can help housing providers reduce the likelihood of hazards escalating, improve resident safety and support more efficient management of their compliance obligations. It can also help organisations prepare for the further expansion of Awaab's Law planned for 2027. How Can Ventro Support Housing Providers with Awaab's Law Phase 2? Ventro Group supports housing associations and local authorities across the UK with specialist building compliance services, helping organisations identify, assess and address building safety risks. Through our integrated service offering, we can support housing providers with several of the technical requirements associated with Awaab's Law Phase 2. Fire Safety Surveys and Assessments Our fire safety specialists can undertake fire risk assessments and other relevant inspections to help housing providers identify fire safety deficiencies and understand the actions required to address them. Electrical Inspections and Remedial Works Ventro provides electrical inspection, testing and remedial services, supporting housing providers in identifying unsafe installations and completing necessary electrical safety improvements. Building and Structural Assessments Through our sister company, Firntec, we can provide specialist building surveying and consultancy services to help clients investigate building defects, understand structural concerns and establish appropriate remediation strategies. Fire Safety and Building Remediation Where surveys identify defects, Ventro can also deliver a range of remedial works, including passive fire protection, fire door works, electrical improvements and wider building refurbishment activities. Nationwide Compliance Support With nationwide coverage and expertise across multiple compliance disciplines, Ventro can help housing providers coordinate surveys, specialist investigations and remedial works through a single compliance partner. This integrated approach can reduce the complexity of managing multiple contractors while helping housing associations respond efficiently to identified building safety risks. Prepare for Awaab's Law Phase 2 with Ventro With Awaab's Law Phase 2 coming into force on 30th November 2026, housing associations and local authorities should ensure their existing compliance arrangements are ready for the expanded requirements. From reviewing existing building safety information to identifying potential hazards and completing remedial works, early preparation will be essential. Ventro can support your organisation with specialist building surveys, fire and electrical safety services, and remedial works to help you manage building safety risks and prepare for the expanded requirements of Awaab's Law. Contact our team today to discuss how we can support your housing portfolio.
Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme continues to progress as the Scottish Government works to identify and address fire safety risks, particularly those associated with external wall systems in residential buildings. Central to this programme is the Single Building Assessment (SBA), a standardised assessment designed to identify risks associated with external wall cladding and establish what remedial action may be required. With further funding allocated, assessments underway across Scotland and an increasing focus on progressing buildings towards remediation, understanding the SBA process is becoming increasingly important for housing associations, local authorities, building owners and property managers. What is Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme? Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme was established to identify, assess and address fire safety risks associated with potentially unsafe external wall cladding systems on residential buildings. The programme primarily focuses on multi-residential domestic buildings measuring 11 metres or more in height, subject to relevant eligibility criteria. Its objectives include identifying buildings potentially affected by unsafe cladding, establishing the level of fire safety risk, supporting appropriate mitigation measures and enabling remediation where necessary. The programme is supported by the Housing (Cladding Remediation) (Scotland) Act 2024, which introduced a statutory framework for Single Building Assessments, remediation and the Cladding Assurance Register. For building owners, the programme provides a structured approach to understanding external wall risks and determining what action may be necessary to improve building safety. What is a Single Building Assessment? A Single Building Assessment is a comprehensive assessment of the risks to human life created or exacerbated by a building's external wall cladding system. Unlike a general building condition survey, an SBA specifically considers external wall fire safety risks and identifies whether mitigation or remediation work is necessary. Under the Scottish Government's published specification, an SBA incorporates two key components: Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW): An assessment of the external wall construction and associated fire safety risks. Fire Risk Assessment (FRA): An assessment of the building's wider fire safety arrangements to support an understanding of the risks associated with the external wall system. Together, these assessments provide a more complete understanding of the building's fire safety position and help determine the most appropriate next steps. SBAs must be undertaken by competent, appropriately qualified professionals and completed in accordance with the Scottish Government's published specification and standards. Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme Progress in 2026 The Scottish Government's latest quarterly management information, published on 15th September 2026, provides an important update on the progress of Single Building Assessments and cladding remediation across Scotland. As of 30th June 2026, the programme reported: 1,799 expressions of interest submitted through the Single Open Call. 956 expressions of interest identified as likely to be eligible for Scottish Government funding for an SBA. 219 buildings with Scottish Government funded SBAs underway, an increase of 70 since March 2026. 16 Scottish Government funded SBAs completed, with all 16 identifying recommendations for remediation work. £31.5 million transferred to local authorities in March 2026 to support assessments and associated mitigation measures. These figures demonstrate increasing assessment activity, although the number of completed SBAs highlights the scale of work still required. For housing providers and building owners, this reinforces the importance of preparing building information, understanding assessment requirements and establishing clear routes towards remediation. Who Is Eligible for a Single Building Assessment in Scotland? The Scottish Government's Cladding Remediation Programme focuses on multi-residential buildings with external wall cladding systems that may present a risk to residents. However, not every residential building automatically qualifies for a Single Building Assessment (SBA) or government funding. To fall within the programme's scope, a building must meet the following criteria: Building type: The property must contain at least one dwelling. Buildings containing a mixture of residential and commercial premises may also qualify. Building height: The building must measure 11 metres or more in height, calculated in accordance with the Scottish Government's assessment criteria. Construction date: The building must have been constructed or undergone relevant development between 1 June 1992 and 1 June 2022. External wall construction: The building must incorporate an external wall cladding system that requires consideration under the programme. These criteria establish which buildings fall within the programme's scope. However, inclusion does not automatically mean that a building has unsafe cladding or requires extensive remediation. What Happens After a Single Building Assessment? Completing an SBA is an important milestone, but it is not necessarily the end of the building safety process. Where risks are identified, the assessment will establish the work required to eliminate or mitigate those risks. Depending on the findings, subsequent activity may include: Reviewing the assessment findings: Understanding the identified risks and recommendations. Determining remediation requirements: Establishing the necessary scope of works and any interim safety measures. Planning and procurement: Developing an appropriate programme for remediation, including identifying responsibilities and funding arrangements. Completing remedial works: Undertaking the required improvements to address identified external wall risks. Recording and demonstrating compliance: Maintaining the evidence needed to demonstrate that the relevant assessment and remediation requirements have been satisfied. The Housing (Cladding Remediation) (Scotland) Act 2024 also established the Cladding Assurance Register, which records information relating to qualifying buildings, assessments and remediation. For building owners, maintaining accurate records throughout the assessment and remediation process is essential. How Can Ventro Group Support Single Building Assessments in Scotland? Through our sister company Firntec, we are authorised by the Scottish Government to undertake Single Building Assessments (SBAs) as part of Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme. As an authorised SBA provider, Firntec has provided formal assurance that its assessment and reporting teams meet the competency requirements established by the Scottish Government. This means Firntec can undertake assessments eligible for government funding, subject to the building and applicant meeting the relevant funding criteria. Our experienced team of fire engineers, building surveyors and compliance specialists provides comprehensive Single Building Assessments, helping building owners understand external wall fire safety risks and establish clear, evidence based recommendations for remediation. Beyond the assessment stage, Ventro Group can also support the delivery of remedial works identified through the Single Building Assessment. Our nationwide fire safety teams can undertake a range of improvements, including fire stopping, compartmentation, fire door remediation and replacement, and other passive and active fire protection works where required. By combining Firntec's specialist assessment expertise with Ventro's wider remediation and compliance capabilities, we can provide building owners with a coordinated approach from identifying fire safety risks through to addressing them. This helps simplify contractor management, improve communication and support the timely completion of necessary works. With an established presence in Scotland and nationwide delivery capabilities, Ventro Group can support housing associations, local authorities and property managers throughout their building safety journey, from initial assessments to remediation and ongoing compliance. Working Towards Safer Buildings Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme represents an important commitment to addressing external wall fire safety risks across the country's residential building stock. While the latest figures demonstrate progress in commencing Single Building Assessments, they also highlight the significant amount of assessment and remediation activity still required. For building owners and housing providers, the priority should be understanding their buildings, preparing for the assessment process and ensuring that identified risks are addressed appropriately. If you require support with Single Building Assessments, building compliance or remediation planning, contact Ventro Group to discuss your requirements today. Frequently Asked Questions What is a Single Building Assessment in Scotland? A Single Building Assessment is a standardised assessment used to identify risks to human life associated with a building's external wall cladding system and determine what work may be required to eliminate or mitigate those risks. Are Single Building Assessments mandatory in Scotland? SBAs form part of Scotland's statutory cladding remediation framework for buildings within the relevant scope. However, whether an individual building requires an SBA depends on its circumstances and applicable programme and legal requirements. Not every residential building requires one. Who pays for a Single Building Assessment? Funding may be available through the Scottish Government's Cladding Remediation Programme for eligible buildings. In other cases, developers may be responsible for funding assessments and remediation. The appropriate funding route depends on the building and relevant arrangements. Does a Single Building Assessment mean cladding must be removed? No. An SBA identifies the risks associated with an external wall system and recommends proportionate measures to eliminate or mitigate them. Full cladding removal is not automatically required in every case. What happens if an SBA identifies unsafe cladding? Where an SBA identifies relevant risks, it will recommend appropriate mitigation or remediation measures. Building owners and other responsible parties must then establish the necessary actions, responsibilities and arrangements for progressing the work. Can any fire safety consultant undertake an SBA? No. An SBA must be undertaken by professionals who satisfy the competency requirements in the Scottish Government's specification. Where Scottish Government funding is sought, the assessment provider must also meet the programme's authorised provider requirements.
The Interim Measures Alarm Fund (IMAF) provides government funding towards the cost of installing common fire alarm systems in eligible residential buildings in England where an interim measures alarm is required. Managed and delivered by Homes England, the fund was introduced in April 2026 to reduce reliance on waking watch arrangements and provide a more sustainable interim fire safety solution while longer-term remediation or mitigation works are completed. For building owners, Responsible Persons and Responsible Entities, understanding whether a building qualifies, as well as having the right technical evidence available is an important first step. What is the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? The Interim Measures Alarm Fund is a £62.7 million government fund designed to support the installation of common fire alarm systems in residential buildings with identified fire safety risks. It replaced the Waking Watch Replacement Fund for new applications from 1 April 2026 and is intended to support buildings requiring interim fire safety measures while permanent remediation or mitigation works progress. The fund can cover reasonable capital costs associated with installing a common fire alarm system, including equipment, wiring, detectors, panels, installation labour, commissioning and testing. Importantly, an existing waking watch is not a prerequisite for applying to the fund. Who Can Apply for the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Both private and social sector applicants can apply for IMAF funding. To apply, you must be a Responsible Entity, Responsible Person or an authorised representative acting on behalf of a Responsible Entity. The building itself must: Be located in England Contain two or more dwellings Be residential or student accommodation Have appropriate technical documentation identifying the need for an interim measures alarm Leaseholders and residents cannot apply directly and should instead contact their building owner or managing agent. Hotels are not eligible for funding through the scheme. Buildings that have already received funding, or have a funding application pending, through the IMAF or the Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2022 or 2023 are also excluded. Does a Building Need to Have a Waking Watch to Apply? No. A building does not need to have an existing waking watch in place to apply for IMAF funding. The key requirement is evidence demonstrating the need for an interim measures alarm. This is an important distinction for Responsible Persons and building owners assessing their options. The purpose of the fund is to support appropriate interim fire safety measures while underlying fire safety risks are being addressed – not simply to reimburse buildings already paying for a waking watch. What Evidence Do You Need to Apply for IMAF Funding? Applicants need to provide information about the building, the Responsible Entity and other relevant organisations involved in its ownership and management. Crucially, Homes England also requires supporting evidence demonstrating the need for an interim alarm. This could include a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA), Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW), communication from a Competent Person or notices and correspondence from a local regulator such as a local authority or Fire and Rescue Service. Where somebody is applying on behalf of the Responsible Entity, evidence confirming their authority to do so will also be required. Applicants should therefore establish the technical basis for requiring an interim alarm before progressing through the application process. How Do You Apply for the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Applications are made through the online IMAF application form provided by Homes England. The initial form asks for information about the building and the organisations responsible for it. Homes England states that the application should take around 30 minutes to complete and must be completed in one session, as progress cannot currently be saved. Following submission, applicants will need to provide the supporting technical evidence demonstrating why an interim measures alarm is required. Homes England then undertakes legal, technical and project-related due diligence. This can include checks on building ownership and eligibility, the Responsible Entity, company directors and signatories, alongside a review of the technical information supplied. What Happens if Your Building is Eligible? Once eligibility has been confirmed, the applicant can obtain a quotation for the required works. However, there is an important requirement: only companies appointed to the Homes England IMAF supplier panel can provide quotations and undertake works funded through the scheme. The selected supplier will need access to the relevant documentation and the building to develop a comprehensive scope and quotation. The quote and proposed scope are then submitted to Homes England for review. Homes England will assess whether the proposed works meet the programme requirements and whether the costs are reasonable and consistent with programme benchmarks. Once the costs and scope have been agreed, Homes England will issue a Grant Funding Agreement. What Happens Once Funding is Approved? The Grant Funding Agreement must be signed by the Responsible Entity before the works are formally instructed. The applicant will then need to provide Homes England with the agreed specification, signed contract and anticipated start and completion dates. Any relevant regulatory approvals must also be identified, including Building Safety Regulator approvals where applicable. Once installed, the alarm must be appropriately commissioned and the required completion evidence submitted to Homes England. This includes a commissioning certificate, updated Fire Risk Assessment reflecting the alarm installation, final invoice, evidence of communication with residents and leaseholders and applicable regulatory sign-off. Grant funding is paid following completion of the works and approval of the required evidence. What Does the Interim Measures Alarm Fund Pay For? The fund is intended to cover reasonable capital costs associated with installing an eligible common fire alarm system. This can include the alarm equipment itself, detectors, panels, wiring, associated installation labour, commissioning and testing. There are also costs that the fund does not cover. These include waking watch costs, project management and administration fees, ongoing maintenance and repair, alarm removal or conversion, residual fire wardens and retrospective costs for alarm systems that have already been installed. Building owners considering an application should therefore understand which elements of the proposed project are eligible before works begin. Is IMAF Funding a Replacement for Remediation? No. An alarm installed through IMAF is an interim measure and does not remove the requirement to address the underlying fire safety risks within the building. Homes England makes clear that longer-term remediation or mitigation should continue. The alarm provides an interim solution designed to improve resident safety and, where appropriate, reduce reliance on waking watch arrangements while that work progresses. Responsibility for the fire safety of the building also remains with the Responsible Person. How Can Ventro Help with the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Navigating the IMAF process involves more than selecting and installing an alarm. Applicants need to understand the risks within their building, establish the technical requirements of the proposed system and ensure the eventual installation meets the required standards. Ventro can support clients through the technical and delivery requirements associated with interim fire alarm measures, from reviewing existing fire safety information and understanding the requirements of the building through to system design, installation, commissioning and the evidence required following completion. For organisations responsible for multiple residential buildings, we can also help assess portfolios to understand where interim measures may be required and support the prioritisation of buildings requiring further investigation or action. Where funding is being sought through IMAF, works funded by the scheme must follow the Homes England process and be delivered through an approved IMAF supplier. Ventro Voice Interim measures have an important role in protecting residents, but they should never become the long-term solution to an unresolved building safety risk. The IMAF provides building owners with an opportunity to move away from potentially costly waking watch arrangements and introduce an effective common alarm system while permanent remediation progresses. The important part is understanding the risk first. Every building is different, and the appropriate solution needs to be informed by competent assessment, the existing fire strategy and the specific characteristics of the building. At Ventro, our focus is on helping clients understand what needs to happen next and delivering the technical fire safety solutions required to keep residents safe while longer-term building safety programmes progress. Frequently Asked Questions About the Interim Measures Alarm Fund Who is eligible for IMAF funding? Private and social sector Responsible Entities, Responsible Persons and authorised representatives can apply for eligible residential and student accommodation buildings in England containing two or more dwellings. Do you need a waking watch to apply for IMAF? No. Having an existing waking watch is not a prerequisite. Applicants need appropriate technical evidence identifying the need for an interim measures alarm. Can leaseholders apply directly? No. Individual residents and leaseholders cannot apply directly. They should contact their building owner or managing agent. What evidence is required for an IMAF application? Applicants need supporting evidence demonstrating the need for an interim alarm. This could include an FRA, FRAEW, communication from a Competent Person or correspondence or notices from a relevant regulator. Can I choose any fire alarm contractor? No. Once eligibility has been confirmed, quotations and funded works must be provided by a company on the Homes England IMAF supplier panel. Does IMAF pay for waking watch costs? No. IMAF does not fund waking watch costs. Its purpose is to fund eligible capital costs associated with installing an appropriate common fire alarm system. Can I claim for a fire alarm that has already been installed? No. IMAF does not provide retrospective funding for alarm systems that have already been installed. Does receiving IMAF funding remove the need for remediation? No. The alarm is an interim fire safety measure. Any necessary permanent remediation or mitigation of the underlying building safety risks must continue. Need Support with Interim Fire Safety Measures? If your organisation is responsible for residential buildings requiring interim fire safety measures, Ventro can help you understand the technical requirements and determine the appropriate next steps. From assessment and system requirements through to installation, commissioning and ongoing fire safety compliance, our teams support building owners and Responsible Persons in managing fire safety across individual buildings and complex residential portfolios. Speak to Ventro about your building's interim fire safety requirements.
Management, Maintenance & Replacement of Cold Water Storage Tanks Cold water storage tanks play an important role in many large buildings and across estates, helping maintain a reliable water supply across properties with significant or fluctuating demand. They are commonly found across hospitals, residential blocks, educational facilities, hotels and large commercial buildings. However, their size, location and connection to extensive water distribution systems mean they also need to be carefully managed as part of an effective water hygiene programme. Poorly maintained tanks can contribute to conditions that encourage bacterial growth, including Legionella, making regular inspection, monitoring and maintenance essential. Why Cold Water Storage Tanks Require Careful Management The objective of a cold water storage tank is relatively simple: store sufficient wholesome water and supply it throughout the building when required. In a large building, however, the wider system can become considerably more complicated. A single property may contain multiple tanks, extensive distribution pipework, numerous outlets and areas with significantly different patterns of water usage. If water is stored for too long, temperatures increase or contamination enters the tank, water quality can deteriorate. Problems within a storage tank can subsequently affect the wider system it supplies. This makes understanding the condition, operation and usage of each tank an important part of managing water hygiene risk. What Temperature Should a Cold Water Storage Tank Be? Cold water should generally be stored and distributed at below 20°C to help control the risk of Legionella growth. Temperature is one of the key considerations when controlling Legionella risk. Where stored water becomes warmer, particularly when combined with stagnation or low turnover, conditions can become increasingly favourable for bacterial growth. Large buildings can present particular challenges. Tanks may be situated in warm plant rooms or roof spaces, located close to heat-producing equipment or affected by inadequate insulation. The size of the tank itself can also become a problem if storage capacity significantly exceeds actual building demand. Regular temperature monitoring can help identify these issues and allow corrective action to be taken before they become an ongoing compliance concern. Is Your Tank Storing More Water Than You Actually Need? Oversized cold water storage tanks are an issue that can sometimes be overlooked. Buildings and their usage change over time. A tank originally designed to serve a particular occupancy level or operational requirement may no longer reflect how the property is being used today. If capacity is considerably greater than demand, water turnover can reduce and increase the potential for stagnation. For organisations managing large estates, reviewing tank capacity alongside current building demand can therefore be just as important as inspecting the physical condition of the tank. When Should a Cold Water Storage Tank Be Replaced? A cold water storage tank may need replacing when its condition, design, capacity or configuration can no longer support effective water hygiene management. Routine inspection, cleaning and maintenance can help keep cold water storage tanks in good condition, but there may come a point where remedial work is no longer the most appropriate solution. Replacement may need to be considered where a tank has significantly deteriorated, is showing signs of corrosion or leakage, is difficult to clean effectively or its existing design makes appropriate water hygiene management difficult. Changes in building occupancy or demand can also mean an existing tank is no longer appropriately sized for the system it serves. For large and operational buildings, tank replacement requires careful planning. The new system needs to reflect current and anticipated demand while maintaining water supply and minimising disruption to building users. Access, installation constraints, tank configuration, insulation and integration with the existing distribution system all need to be considered. Replacing an ageing or unsuitable tank also provides an opportunity to address historic issues within the system. Rather than replacing like-for-like automatically, organisations can review storage capacity, improve water turnover and introduce a solution better suited to the way the building operates today. What Should Be Checked During a Cold Water Storage Tank Inspection? Cold water storage tanks should be included within an appropriate water hygiene inspection and monitoring regime. Inspections should consider the overall condition and cleanliness of the tank, whether lids and screens are adequately fitted, signs of corrosion or deterioration, insulation, water temperature and evidence of sediment, debris or contamination. The configuration of the system should also be considered. Poorly positioned inlet and outlet connections, for example, can create areas where water circulation is limited. Importantly, inspections shouldn't simply identify a problem. Findings should feed into a clear process for prioritising, completing and recording any necessary remedial actions. How Do You Manage Cold Water Storage Tanks Across a Large Estate? For organisations responsible for multiple large buildings, managing individual tanks is only part of the challenge. Housing providers, NHS organisations, universities, local authorities and facilities management teams may be responsible for hundreds of water hygiene assets spread across multiple sites. Each building can have different risk assessments, monitoring frequencies, remedial requirements and servicing dates. Without effective oversight, it can become difficult to establish where risks exist, whether actions have been completed and which assets require attention next. This is why water compliance needs to be viewed as an ongoing management programme rather than a series of isolated inspections. From Assessment to Ongoing Compliance An effective water hygiene programme should provide a clear understanding of the condition of the system, identify potential risks and ensure appropriate control measures remain effective. At Ventro Environmental, we support organisations with the management of water compliance across individual buildings and complex estates. Our approach covers Legionella risk assessments, water monitoring, cold water storage tank inspection, maintenance and replacement, treatment plant and equipment, remedial works and planned preventative maintenance. By bringing assessment, remedial action and ongoing monitoring together, we help clients maintain greater visibility of water hygiene risks across their buildings and demonstrate that identified actions are being appropriately managed. Our Assess. Address. Compliant. Maintain. approach provides a clear route to ongoing environmental compliance. We assess your buildings to identify risks, address any issues through appropriate remedial works, ensure your systems are compliant, and provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to keep them there. Assess Address Compliant Maintain Ventro Voice Cold water storage tanks can easily become an overlooked part of a building’s infrastructure, particularly across large and complex estates. But simply having a programme of inspections isn’t enough. Building usage changes, water demand changes and systems age, meaning a tank that was suitable when installed may no longer be right for the building today. We believe good water compliance means looking at the bigger picture. That means understanding how water moves through the building, identifying where risks are developing and taking action – whether that’s improved monitoring, remedial works, maintenance or complete tank replacement. Need support with cold water storage tanks across your estate? Ventro Environmental can support with tank inspections, monitoring, remedial works, maintenance and replacement as part of a wider water hygiene compliance programme.