PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEW)
Specialist, risk-based external wall fire safety assessments for residential and mixed-use buildings across the UK.
At Howatt Consulting, we provide specialist PAS 9980 Fire Risk Appraisals of External Walls (FRAEW) for residential and mixed-use buildings across the UK. Our assessments are undertaken in accordance with PAS 9980:2022 and are designed to support building owners, managing agents, developers, and Responsible Persons in understanding and managing the fire risk associated with external wall construction.
The introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022 and increasing scrutiny from the Building Safety Regulator has placed significant emphasis on the assessment and management of external wall systems. We understand the challenges faced by duty holders navigating evolving guidance, lender requirements, resident concerns, and regulatory expectations. Our approach is practical, proportionate, and aligned with current industry best practice.
What our FRAEW assessments consider
Our FRAEW assessments consider the overall fire performance of the external wall construction, taking into account factors such as cladding materials, insulation products, cavity barriers, fire stopping, balconies, attachments, façade geometry, and the height and use of the building. We adopt a risk-based methodology in accordance with PAS 9980, focusing on the likelihood and consequences of external fire spread rather than relying solely on prescriptive guidance.
- Desktop review and document analysis
- Review of cladding, insulation, cavity barriers and fire stopping
- Assessment of balconies, attachments and façade geometry
- Intrusive investigations and on-site inspections where required
- Clear risk findings and proportionate recommendations
- Support for Higher-Risk Buildings and Building Safety Case documentation
We work closely with clients throughout the process, from initial desktop reviews and document analysis through to intrusive investigations and on-site inspections where required. Our reports clearly identify the construction of the external wall system, assess the associated fire risks, and provide proportionate recommendations where improvements or further investigations may be necessary.
We recognise that every building is different. Our assessments are tailored to the specific building, occupancy profile, and existing fire safety measures in place. Where remediation works are required, we aim to provide clear, pragmatic recommendations that support compliance while helping clients prioritise actions effectively.
Our team has extensive experience supporting Higher-Risk Buildings, residential developments, and complex multi-storey schemes under the Building Safety Act regime. We regularly work alongside fire engineers, façade specialists, structural engineers, contractors, and managing agents to ensure a coordinated and technically robust approach to external wall fire safety.
At Howatt Consulting, we pride ourselves on producing reports that are clear, technically detailed, and aligned with the expectations of clients, insurers, lenders, and regulators. Whether you require a standalone FRAEW assessment, support with Building Safety Case documentation, or advice regarding external wall remediation strategies, our team can provide practical guidance and responsive support throughout the process.
We understand the importance of balancing safety, compliance, cost, and disruption. Our focus is on delivering proportionate solutions that stand up to regulatory scrutiny while remaining practical for building owners and residents alike.