Written question WQ84249
- Asked by
- Andrew RT DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Climate Change
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 10 days
Question
Following comments by a Welsh Government spokesperson confirming leaseholders who live in their own flats will not have to pay any costs to fix cladding issues, will the Minister confirm the position for leaseholders renting out their flats and the rules that will apply to them?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Climate Change
Welsh Government has consistently held the view that Leaseholders did not create the issues that have been identified and developers should step up to their moral responsibilities and rectify these issues without charge to leaseholders. I have consistently made this clear to builders, developers and leaseholders.
I have written to a number of large developers working in Wales and asked them to meet to discuss the approach being taken to remediate defects and their engagement with residents.
This is a highly complex issue and there is not a one size fits all solution. The first phase of the Welsh Building Safety Fund has been launched and is well underway after the call for Expressions of Interest opened in September. As of 18th January 2022, there have been 248 completed EOIs. This essential first phase will provide funding for fire safety surveys and the creation of Building Remediation Passports. This will help to inform the support required for leaseholders and residents both in the short and long term.
I will of course make announcements as soon as I can on funding to support leaseholders and residents. I am fully aware of the dire circumstances in which some find themselves and I am committed to offering support.