The insurance challenge
Insurers have become cautious in response to failures in cladding, compartmentation and smoke control. For contractors and developers, this translates into stricter terms, higher premiums and reduced coverage when risk is perceived as high.
Why material choice matters
Insurers assess whether a system is:
- Tested to recognised BS EN standards
- Classified A1 non-combustible
- Supported by QA and accountability at installation
Blockwork fails on the first point, with no BS EN 1366-8 data. Plasterboard fails on the third, relying heavily on workmanship. These uncertainties increase liability and risk profiles.
How Specwall reduces liability
Specwall A1 panels achieve BS EN 1364 E120/I120 performance and are classified A1 under BS EN 13501-1. SpecShaft achieves BS EN 1366-1 and 1366-8 compliance, with documented leakage performance. Both are installed by approved contractors backed by £5m PI cover.
For insurers, this creates a clearer risk profile: tested systems, installed under QA, with accountability embedded. Developers using these systems present a lower liability, which can improve insurance terms.
Case study evidence
At Victoria Riverside, insurers had clear BS EN test data and a QA trail, reducing concerns around fire safety liability. This is the direction insurers want to see projects taking, towards documented compliance.
In an insurance market shaped by risk, untested systems are a liability. Tested, A1-rated systems like Specwall and SpecShaft not only improve safety but also reduce exposure to long-term financial risk.
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