FAQ: What is the definition of a block?
Series: RICS FAQPublication details: RICS Knowledge and Information Service, Last reviewed 12th May 2023Subject(s): Summary: The RICS cannot define what a ‘block’ is but the question has come up before in relation to an External Wall Cladding Survey (EWS1). The FAQs at https://www.rics.org/news-insights/current-topics-campaigns/fire-safety/cladding-external-wall-system-ews-faqs states "Each EWS1 form is valid for an entire block / building" There have been instances of developments of several attached ‘blocks’ with several different postcodes. We understand the professionals involved in one case decided that where the blocks are abutted but there is no connecting floors/stairs etc that they are separate blocks – but each case has to be decided on its own merits as they will likely be unique. An EWS1 form can have multiple postcodes on the same form if the block spans more than one postcode.| Item type | Current library | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reference material | Virtual Enquiry desk | Available |
The RICS cannot define what a ‘block’ is but the question has come up before in relation to an External Wall Cladding Survey (EWS1). The FAQs at https://www.rics.org/news-insights/current-topics-campaigns/fire-safety/cladding-external-wall-system-ews-faqs states "Each EWS1 form is valid for an entire block / building"
There have been instances of developments of several attached ‘blocks’ with several different postcodes.
We understand the professionals involved in one case decided that where the blocks are abutted but there is no connecting floors/stairs etc that they are separate blocks – but each case has to be decided on its own merits as they will likely be unique.
An EWS1 form can have multiple postcodes on the same form if the block spans more than one postcode.