Question reference: S5O-04268
- Asked by: Sandra White, MSP for Glasgow Kelvin, Scottish National Party
- Date lodged: 4 March 2020
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Current status: Answered by Kevin Stewart on 12 March 2020
Question
To ask the Scottish Government whether it will provide an update on the progress being made with the introduction in Scotland of the external wall fire review form, EWS1.
Answer
This is an issue that is causing a significant amount of concern and anxiety for people who, through no fault of their own, are unable to sell their homes or secure mortgage finance.
The mortgage and surveying industries, through UK Finance and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, launched the External Wall Systems 1 (EWS1) process on 16th December 2019. However, it is clear that the form is not working in Scotland as was anticipated by the RICS and UK Finance.
The Scottish Government has no formal role in relation to the mortgage industry, which is reserved. Notwithstanding that, I have met with Members, UK Finance and others to consider what actions we can take to make this form work. I have written five times to the UK Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on this issue. I am disappointed that he does not share my sense of priority and his office made clear on Tuesday that he is not available for a discussion at this time.
I am also aware of the Local Government and Communities Committee’s interest in this matter. My officials continue to engage with lenders, surveyors and others to identify action required in order that people are able to buy, sell and remortgage their homes.