A cladding system of the type installed at Chaucer House has passed the recent testing of complete cladding systems, currently being carried out by the British Research Establishment (BRE).

The testing is part of a programme of tests of seven different types of cladding system conducted by the Department of Communities and Local Government to better understand how cladding systems behave in a fire.  This, the fourth test completed, was of aluminium composite material (ACM) cladding with a fire retardant polyethylene filler and mineral wool insulation.

Sutton Housing Partnership (SHP) is working closely with Sutton Council and the London Fire Brigade to ensure fire safety in homes and blocks remains a priority for everyone.

An independent review of fire safety put in place following the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower, has confirmed refurbishment works and the installation of cladding systems to both blocks at Chaucer House and Balaam House was carried out to a good standard. The review also found that maintenance and management of both blocks following major works was good.

As part of the review, SHP has ordered another independent testing of the cladding system which will involve checking that the design and materials used are in accordance with the system tests undertaken by the manufacturers (and now the government). This test will also confirm that the system as installed complies with the necessary building regulations and technical specifications.  This work has started and engineers will be on site carrying out these inspections over the next few weeks.

SHP continues a programme of remedial works to address any fire safety issues, these works, which include additional fire protection measures are due for completion in August.

In addition to this a number of other immediate measures were put in place and continue to offer further reassure to residents of the joint commitment to ensure fire safety remains a priority;

• Regular fire safety visits, carried out with the London Fire Brigade, in addition to annual fire risk assessments
• Fire Safety Patrols in blocks between 5pm and 8am, seven days a week
• Regular engagement and communication with residents. Listening to residents and acting on feedback has been crucial in helping to determine and respond to particular areas of concern
• Free fire blankets if requested
• Clear guidance and support for residents to ensure communal areas are kept clear.
• Home fire safety checks and the development of personal evacuation plans for residents and their families who may have mobility issues or vulnerabilities.
• Drop in sessions on estates with key staff and partners to offer advice and reassurance on fire safety measures.

Cllr Jayne McCoy, Chair of the Housing, Economy and Business Committee at Sutton Council, said:

“We are pleased the cladding on Chaucer House has passed this latest test. I hope this good news reassures residents that their homes we work so hard to keep safe have been maintained to a high standard. We still want to complete our own tests to make sure absolutely everything is as it should be and we will share further details of these final tests with residents once we have them.”