Heightsafe are one of the UK’s leading companies when it comes to façade investigations and intrusive surveys.
Heightsafe has risen to become the UK’s number one company in the Work at Height sector, a position we’ve achieved through consistent dedication to safety and excellence over the past 15 years. Our journey began with a focus on Work at Height solutions, where we developed unmatched expertise in fall protection and façade access, serving a wide range of blue-chip business clients across the nation.
Following the tragic Grenfell Tower fire, we recognised the urgent need for specialised skills in façade investigations and intrusive surveys. Leveraging our deep-rooted knowledge and technical capabilities in working at height, we expanded our services to meet this critical demand. We are now leading experts in façade safety, trusted by developers, block managers, building owners, and fire engineers throughout the UK.
Located in a prime central London setting, this project required extensive pre-planning and coordination with both the City of London and Camden Councils to secure essential road closures. These measures ensured the safe operation of high-level access equipment while protecting the public in a busy, mixed-use environment.
Using a 33-metre truck-mounted platform, Heightsafe’s in-house façade investigation team carried out a six-day programme of external and internal inspections. Internally, works were conducted within occupied offices, with careful stakeholder engagement to minimise disruption. The investigation involved approximately 50 openings across varied façade types, including high-specification masonry and proprietary systems.
To preserve the building’s premium finishes, non-destructive techniques such as borescope inspections were employed where possible. This approach delivered critical construction insights while maintaining the structural and aesthetic integrity of the property.
We support developers by delivering façade investigations and FRAEW certification that de-risk projects, ensure compliance, and provide clarity for onward construction and sales.
We help block managers by carrying out detailed investigations and securing FRAEW certification to keep buildings compliant while minimising disruption for residents.
We assist owners by providing comprehensive façade assessments and FRAEW certification that protect asset value, ensure safety, and meet legal obligations.
We work with fire engineers by supplying robust investigation data and FRAEW-compliant reporting that supports accurate fire safety strategies and certification.
Find quick answers to common questions about façade investigations
A façade investigation is a detailed assessment of a building’s external envelope to identify potential safety risks, defects, and compliance issues. It ensures the façade meets fire safety and structural standards, while protecting the value and integrity of the building.
A FRAEW (Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls) is a comprehensive fire risk assessment of a building’s external wall system, typically carried out by a competent fire engineer. An EWS1 form, on the other hand, is a lender-focused document confirming the outcome of a FRAEW assessment for mortgage and valuation purposes. In short, the FRAEW provides the evidence, and the EWS1 communicates it to lenders.
Yes. Our investigations are aligned with FRAEW guidance, providing the essential evidence and reporting required for certification and compliance with the latest fire safety regulations.
Get in touch with Heightsafe’s friendly, professional team today for free, no obligation advice on your Work at Height compliance requirements.
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