Grenfell Tower Inquiry publishes Phase 2 report

On 4 September, the Grenfell Tower Inquiry published its second and final report on the tragic fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017. We welcome the report’s recommendations, and our thoughts are with all those affected by the tragedy.

Phase 2 of the inquiry looked at the cause of the fire. It examined the course of events leading up to the fire that allowed such a tragedy to occur. The report concluded that all 72 deaths which occurred were avoidable and that residents were failed by those responsible for their safety. It contained a number of recommendations including increased regulation of the construction industry, better training for fire and rescue services, and changes designed to improve fire safety management in existing buildings.

The report sets out the failings of Grenfell Tower’s Tenant Management Organisation (TMO) and the importance of learning from its failures, particularly around fire safety management. The panel has urged all those responsible for the management of social housing to give due consideration to the TMO’s shortcomings and take appropriate action. The panel stated that following the passing of the Social Housing Regulation Act, it did not consider it necessary to make any additional recommendations to address the failings of the TMO.

The panel reiterated its Phase 1 recommendation that Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) are in place for residents who would not be able to evacuate independently in an emergency. Earlier this week the government announced that it would be bringing forward proposals to introduce Residential PEEPs for vulnerable and disabled residents. These proposals will apply to high-rise and higher-risk buildings and the government has committed funding to help social housing providers to deliver on this. We are seeking to understand more about the proposals and what the funding will be available for and will keep our members updated on any developments. 

In the meantime, please get in touch if you have any questions about the report or the recent government announcements.