Housing and RAAC: What we know so far

In the space of a few weeks, RAAC (reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) has gone from a little-known building material that few outside of construction had heard of to becoming one of the most talked-about issues within the UK.

Emerging last month as a prominent issue within the education sector – with the forced closure of some school buildings found built with the material due to the risk of collapse – questions are now being asked about whether the so-called ‘crumbly concrete’ could be present in other sectors, including housing.

RAAC was used extensively in construction between the 1950s and 1970s, when much social housing was built; however, further investigations are needed to gain a full picture.

Updates

At the end of last week, the Regulator of Social Housing wrote to all registered providers advising them on what action they should take on this issue. The letter says the regulator’s “current understanding, based on engagement with sector advisers and stakeholders, is that RAAC is not widespread” in social housing - though it “may be present” in a small number of buildings. 

The letter continued: “We expect landlords to ensure that they have a good understanding of their homes, including building safety issues and whether homes contain RAAC components and the risk to tenant safety arising from these; that you develop proportionate mitigation and remediation plans where required; and seek suitably qualified advice where necessary. 

“You should also ensure you communicate appropriately with tenants where this is an issue.” 

Housing providers are expected to contact the regulator if they have serious concerns about the presence of RAAC in any of their homes. 

The Local Government Association has similarly issued guidance to local authorities, reproducing a letter it initially sent to councils about schools, as the material “can be found in all types of public building”. 

The letter reads: “It is important that those responsible for the management, maintenance or alteration of central and local government buildings know whether their buildings contain RAAC and, where they do, they act appropriately to ensure that such buildings are deemed safe.” 

Earlier this week, Clive Betts, chair of the Levelling Up Committee, wrote to DLUHC to request an update on the department’s assessment of the risk of RAAC in social and private housing. 

In the letter, Betts said: “There are well-publicised concerns about the use of RAAC in public buildings such as schools and hospitals but there is also concern about the use of RAAC in housing. 

“It’s important the government spells out its assessment of the risk in residential buildings, in social housing and local authorities’ estates and what guidance it is giving to residents and landlords on the risk of RAAC.” 

Devonshires has produced some guidance for housing associations and local authorities on legal claims, while the Institiution of Structural Engineers has published guidance to support building owners and managers.

The CIH will continue to keep its members updated on this as developments unfold.