Is It Better to Sell a Block Vacant or Tenanted?
December 11, 2025
TL;DR
You can sell a block of flats without an EWS1 form, but it usually requires a cash buyer. This blog explains how to sell properties with fire safety defects or non-compliant cladding — and why Citywide Blocks provides a fast, stress-free option for landlords unable to obtain an EWS1 form.
Why an EWS1 Form is Critical
Can You Sell a Block Without an EWS1?
Who Buys EWS1-Deficient Properties?
How to Sell Your Block of Flats Without an EWS1 Form
FAQs
Next Steps for Property Owners
The EWS1 form is a fire safety certificate required for high-rise residential buildings (over 18m). It assesses the safety of the building’s cladding. If the cladding is unsafe, the block becomes unmortgageable and extremely difficult to sell through normal channels.
Why the EWS1 form matters:
Mortgage lenders won’t fund purchases without it.
Buyers can’t secure financing, leaving you with very few options.
Yes, it’s possible. While most buyers can’t proceed without an EWS1, Citywide Blocks can. As cash buyers, we don’t rely on mortgage funding — meaning we can purchase properties with fire safety defects or failed cladding assessments.
Selling without an EWS1 is typically only feasible with cash buyers or developers willing to handle the fire safety upgrades themselves.
Investors or companies specialising in fire-safety-deficient buildings.
Citywide Blocks is a cash buyer and can purchase properties with cladding or fire safety issues.
We carry out an assessment and provide a fair, market-aligned offer.
Some may purchase properties with known defects if funding is available.
These sales often involve longer processing times and may require refurbishments first.
Developers seeking renovation projects may be interested.
Expect discounted offers due to the cost and risk of remediation work.
Contact Citywide Blocks for a no-obligation valuation from specialists experienced with fire safety issues.
Even without an EWS1, we ensure the building meets basic compliance requirements and work with contractors where needed.
Once we review the block, we provide a fast, straightforward offer — with no mortgage approval delays.
After terms are agreed, we handle the paperwork. Sales typically complete within 4–6 weeks, avoiding the long delays of traditional selling.
Yes — but normally only to a cash buyer. Mortgage lenders and traditional buyers can’t proceed with fire-safety-deficient properties.
It varies by building size and severity. Citywide Blocks can help assess required repairs and make an offer based on the block’s condition.
Yes. We buy blocks with or without tenants, depending on your preference.
If you’re struggling to sell your block due to missing EWS1 certification, Citywide Blocks can help. We offer discreet, fast, cash purchases — helping you avoid the complications of traditional selling routes.
Call 0113 323 0678 or contact us today for your free valuation and begin your sale process.
At Citywide Blocks, we specialise in buying and resolving problem blocks of flats across the UK no matter the issue. From costly
