Fire and renovation: news for homebuyers

Some homes are more at risk from destruction by fire than others, says the Traditional Housing Bureau.

Some homes are more at risk from destruction by fire than others, says the Traditional Housing Bureau.

As well as the devastating and life threatening effects of fire on the occupants, the aftermath is an area where the type of home construction can make the difference between a family coping after a fire.

Houses built from conventional brick and block construction are inherently fire resistant.

Even where a blaze has taken hold there is normally a structure remaining once the fire brigade has left.

The home may be damaged and wet, but it can be restored in order for the family to return - demonstrating the "bouncebackability" of brick and block buildings.

Dwellings built using lightweight timber or prefabricated methods are more likely to burn more strongly.

If the structural timbers are affected, the building will be irreparable.

A statement from the Association of British Insurers highlights the problem: "The adoption of modular building techniques, currently being promoted by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister in England for lost cost housing projects, are of particular concern to insurers".

"The construction methods have variable fire resistant qualities and rely on good finishes, which must remain intact and undamaged during occupation.

The social and economic costs of major fires in such constructions will be enormous".

The lesson is clear: don't take for granted that your prospective home is brick and block built.

Check it out and choose wisely, for your own peace of mind.

For further information about fire risks in home construction, contact the Traditional Housing Bureau.

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