Landlord and Tenant Advice
We offer advice and assistance to landlords and tenants so that everybody understands the rules and regulations involved.
Supporting and Understanding
We are sympathetic to the housing difficulties that can arise and are here to help and support you.
The Highest Standards
We're here to help those whose landlords have allowed properties to fall into disrepair.
We have the key to success
Our Housing Solicitors have a wealth of knowledge and extensive experience in all manners of housing law matters.
Housing Solicitors
NHBC issues fire safety advice to residents of apartment blocks (13 July 2017)
Date: 13/07/2017
The National House Building Council (NHBC) has issued information for homeowners who are concerned about fire safety in apartment buildings.
In a statement, the NHBC said it had been “shocked and saddened” by the Grenfell Tower fire – and also welcomed the Public Inquiry to be chaired by Sir Martin Moore-Bick.
The organisation also welcomed the Expert Panel – announced by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government – to advise on immediate safety action following the Grenfell Tower fire.
The NHBC said it anticipated “making a full contribution to both”.
Builders registered with NHBC are required to comply with NHBC's prescribed technical standards for construction, which require builders to comply fully with all government set Building Regulations, including those concerning fire safety.
The NHC advises that, in general, responsibility for fire safety in occupied apartment buildings rests with those who have ownership or control of the building as a whole.
The responsible person has a number of fire safety duties prescribed by law and normally it would fall to a landlord or managing agent – however, whoever is responsible for fire safety in an apartment block, the NHBC said it expected them to have made this known to residents.
“You should contact them first if you have concerns about any aspect of the fire safety of the apartment building you live in,” the organisation advises.
“If you are not sure who is responsible for fire safety, we suggest you look for information in communal areas of the building – or ask the person you pay service charges to.
“For general information on what to do in the event of a fire, we suggest you contact your local fire service.
“If you, your landlord or managing agent believe there are defects that affect the fire safety of your building which are covered by the NHBC Buildmark warranty on your home, contact us on 0800 035 6422 or via our website http://www.nhbc.co.uk/AboutNHBC/Contactus/ for further information on whether a claim can be made.”
Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors
Duncan Lewis Housing Solicitors can advise on a wide range of housing law, including advising developers and self builders on planning permissions and planning appeals.
There are Duncan Lewis offices across England and Wales and our housing team is also able to advise on: