If you own a flat with cladding and want to sell your property in Cardiff, you’re not alone in feeling unsure about how to proceed. Many homeowners worry that they’ll never find a buyer — especially after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, which changed the way lenders view buildings with cladding.
However, there’s good news: mortgage lenders have now relaxed their rules, and selling a flat with cladding in Pontcanna, Llandaff, or elsewhere in Cardiff is more achievable than it has been in years.
At Fortis Estate Agents, we’ve helped local sellers navigate these challenges, and in this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about selling a cladded flat, including the latest RICS guidance and what lenders are now accepting.
After the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, where unsafe cladding caused flames to spread rapidly, lenders across the UK tightened their mortgage lending policies.
Thousands of leaseholders were suddenly trapped in homes that were not only unsafe but also unmortgageable — meaning they could only sell to cash buyers or not sell at all.
The issue stemmed from combustible materials used in cladding systems that didn’t meet updated fire safety standards. Many buildings needed expensive remediation, and owners couldn’t sell until safety certifications were obtained.
Thankfully, since January 2023, the situation has improved significantly. Many leading high street banks — including HSBC, NatWest, Barclays, Lloyds, Santander, and Nationwide — are now willing to offer mortgages on flats with cladding, provided that:
There is evidence of a remediation plan, or
The building qualifies for government legal protections or funding.
This change means that if you own a flat in Cardiff, Llandaff, or Pontcanna with cladding, selling is now far more realistic than at any point in the past five years.
The EWS1 form (External Wall System form) was introduced after Grenfell to assess the fire safety of a building’s cladding. Previously, buyers needed an EWS1 certificate to get a mortgage.
Now, thanks to the latest RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) guidance, many lenders no longer require an EWS1 form if there’s clear evidence that the building’s cladding issues are being resolved.
This updated approach has brought greater confidence and consistency to valuations, making the sales process smoother for affected homeowners.
RICS has trained valuers to take a more balanced and informed view of cladding-affected properties. Their guidance helps lenders assess:
The funding sources for remediation works.
The timeline for repairs or replacements.
Whether legal protections (such as government funding schemes) are in place.
This consistent framework gives buyers and lenders more confidence — and gives sellers a clearer route to completing their sale.
Yes — as long as your property meets the updated lender criteria. Most major lenders will now consider flats in buildings over 11 metres high where remediation is planned, underway, or funded.
However, it’s worth noting that some buyers may offer slightly less to reflect the potential disruption of future works. A knowledgeable local estate agent can help you price your property competitively to secure serious buyers.
Selling a flat with cladding can be more complex, but with the right preparation, it’s entirely possible. Here’s how to maximise your success:
Gather all documentation – Have details of remediation plans, funding, and safety assessments ready.
Work with your managing agent or freeholder – They can help provide proof of safety compliance or funding.
Be transparent with buyers – Provide reassurance by sharing clear information about ongoing works.
Choose an experienced estate agent – A local expert who understands cladding sales can market your property effectively and manage buyer concerns.
At Fortis Estate Agents, we specialise in helping sellers across Pontcanna, Llandaff, and Cardiff overcome these challenges to achieve successful sales.
Yes. Thanks to new RICS guidance and lender policies, you can now sell your flat even if it has cladding, provided there’s proof of remediation or protection.
You may receive slightly lower offers depending on the extent of cladding works, but the improved lending conditions mean prices are stabilising.
Not always. Many lenders no longer require it if there’s clear evidence of remediation or legal protection, but check with your buyer’s lender to confirm.
Work with an experienced local agent, ensure all documents are ready, and communicate clearly with potential buyers.
If you’re selling a flat with cladding in Cardiff, or in nearby areas such as Pontcanna or Llandaff, our friendly and experienced team at Fortis Estate Agents can help you navigate the process.
We’ll provide expert advice, manage buyer communication, and market your flat to attract qualified buyers who understand the current lending environment.
📞 Call us today on 02920 561111
📧 Or email hello@fortis.homes
Let’s help you move forward with confidence.
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