Finchley’s Own Cladding Scandal

It has been discovered that a block of flats in North Finchley had its ESW1 forms forged. ESW1 forms were established after the tragedy at Grenfell Tower in 2017. Ensuring that external wall systems are properly assessed for fire safety, it beggars’ belief that North Finchley has found itself amid its very own cladding scandal. 

Residents have been in touch about this forgery. Understandably, people feel unsafe in their own homes suffering from severe mental health issues as a result.  

Many now wish to sell their homes due to the distress caused. Yet, residents were told that in order to tell their properties the ESW1 forms needed to be recommissioned. This, alongside poor communication and a lack of clarity on the matter have culminated in serious anger and frustration.  

Upon hearing resident’s stories, I met with the Chief Executive of Peabody, the housing association in charge of the flats. I wanted to relay residents’ concerns, get their guarantee of improved communication going forward and most importantly ensure that the building was safe for people to live in. 

Peabody have now set in place a 108-week programme for remediation works to the roof and cladding with a projected completion date of June 2027, with work commencing on 14th April. They have also advised that an EWS1 is not required to progress sales or support finance applications for leaseholders in the building. I am committed to holding Peabody to account to their time frames to ensure that residents of always feel heard, respected and safe in their homes. 

This case is a stark reminder to us, as politicians, that we cannot lose sight of the families and individuals behind the statistics of our national housing crisis. As the MP for Finchley and Golders Green I am committed to advocating for residents whose homes and lives are entangled with the scandal and complacency of housing providers and associations.  But, solving these issues using a case-by-case approach is not enough.  We need systematic change – not just sticking plasters.  

This Government has an ambitious plan to deliver 1.5 million new homes over the next five years through the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. This is backed up with £2 billion investment into social and affordable homes. We are also introducing new laws to improve the quality of existing homes. The Renters’ Rights Bill will end no-fault evictions and ensure that landlords can no longer delay repairs and replacements. From fixing the current mess in our housing system, to making it future proof – this Government is taking the steps that will set us on the right course.