Can I sell a flat without an EWS1 form?
Yes, it is possible to sell a flat without an EWS1 form, but whether the sale can proceed smoothly often depends on the type of buyer and how they are funding the purchase.
An EWS1 (External Wall System) form is used to assess the fire safety of a building’s external wall system, particularly in multi-storey residential blocks. It is not a legal requirement in itself, but it is commonly requested by mortgage lenders as part of their lending criteria where cladding or external wall concerns may exist.
If an EWS1 form is not available, the following situations can arise:
- Mortgage lenders might refuse to lend on the property
- Buyers may struggle to obtain finance
- Additional fire safety surveys might be required, which can take time to arrange
- Solicitors could raise further enquiries, leading to delays in conveyancing
Despite this, a sale can still proceed in certain circumstances. Cash house buyers are often able to purchase without an EWS1 form, as they aren’t reliant on mortgage lending requirements. This can make them a practical option where fire safety documents are missing or delayed.
At Sell House Fast, we can proceed with purchases even where an EWS1 form is not available. This allows sellers to avoid lengthy delays caused by lender requirements and move forward with a quicker, more straightforward sale.
