Decision details

Following a request at the previous meeting, the Scrutiny Commission received a report which informed members of the council’s approach to fire safety and risk management. It was noted that, since the Grenfell Tower fire in London, DCLG had instructed all social landlords to review their housing stock and the use of ACM (aluminium composite material) cladding in relation to properties over six storeys or 18 metres in height. Officers reported that the council owned no properties of that height, nor any with ACM cladding.

Members were informed that fire risk assessments were kept up to date for sheltered housing (communal and personal property) and flats with communal areas, annual servicing of heating systems was carried out as well as electrical installation checks. All properties had smoke alarms and these were being updated with hard wired alarms rather than battery operated. Fire evacuation procedures were regularly tested in homeless accommodation.

It was also reported that commercial buildings had been assessed and, of these, two blocks had cladding, but this cladding did not use ACM.

A member asked whether fire safety of tenants’ possessions was checked in council houses. In response, it was reported that whilst on all visits, housing officers were vigilant and trained to identify potential risks.

Concern was expressed in relation to privately rented housing and whether there were any fire risk assessments. In response, it was noted that properties would only be checked if a tenant raised a concern or complaint with the council.