Fire safety for timber-framed homes - Information for Barnet Homes residents

Fire safety work on timber-framed homes

Following a fire in summer 2023 Barnet Council undertook inspections of a sample of properties. These properties were found to be at high risk of damage should a fire break out. To ensure the safety of residents living in the properties, essential safety works are required. Where properties are found to contain such a high risk from fire the council has a mandatory duty to ensure that work is completed to make the property safe.

These essential fire safety works will ensure residents are safer in the event of fire. Modern construction regulations ensure that different homes are separated from each other with fire resistant materials to reduce the likelihood of fire spread. The affected homes were built in terraces, and this work is necessary to ensure there is enough space between the homes to prevent fires from spreading. These homes include both private homes and homes owned by Barnet Council.

Responsibility for the work

Barnet Homes will be carrying out the fire safety works to properties. There will be no additional cost to tenants, or changes to rents or service charges, as a result of these works.

The works will take approximately two to three weeks to complete. Most of the works will be to the exterior of properties, and access required to residents' homes will be minimal. Scaffolding will be erected around residents' homes so works can take place.

Barnet Homes will contact affected residents to arrange a specific date for the works to begin.

Smoke and heat detectors

Battery powered smoke and heat detectors will be provided where needed to all affected homes at no charge. Residents can contact timberframeproperties@barnet.gov.uk or 0208 359 5348 to request this.

Who else should tenants speak to

Affected tenants are advised to contact their insurance providers to make them aware of the situation.

Information about affected properties

Approximately 580 homes in the borough of Barnet are affected by the fire safety work required to timber-framed homes. This is a combination of council owned properties and properties owned by Housing Associations and private homeowners.

The properties affected were built between the 1930s and 1960s, using four different types of construction. All of the properties are constructed using a solid masonry separating wall between houses which is then supplemented with a front and rear elevation in timber with a cladding material affixed. This cladding generally spans the terrace. The council is not aware of the exact date that the cladding was installed, but believe it was during the late 1980s.

Documents delivered to affected residents

For reference, you can find copies of letters and other information sent to affected residents below. This section will be updated as more information is shared.

Drop in session for Barnet Homes residents

Where: One Stonegrove Community Centre, 5 Hayling Way, HA8 8BN - Room Goldsmith

When: Saturday 16th March, 12.00-3.00pm.

Please contact us if you would like to register to attend:

Email: TimberFrameHomes@barnet.gov.uk

Telephone: 0208 359 5348

Contact us

Barnet Homes and Barnet Council will work closely with residents to ensure that works can take place as smoothly as possible. Barnet Homes will have a dedicated project manager who will be the first point of contact for residents. Residents will be kept informed through written and digital communication, and Barnet Council will host in-person sessions to discuss any questions or concerns residents may have.

If you wish to contact us to discuss any part of this issue, you can do so by email, or telephone between Monday to Friday, 9.00am-5.00pm:

Email: TimberFrameHomes@barnet.gov.uk