Insights & guidance
PAS 9980, FRAEW and EWS1, Untangled
Three terms that get used interchangeably and mean different things. Here is the plain-English version, and where facade condition data fits.
Updated June 2026 · 4 min read
PAS 9980
A code of practice for the fire risk appraisal of external walls of multi-storey residential buildings. It sets out a methodical way to assess external wall construction and the fire risk associated with it.
FRAEW
The Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls itself, carried out to the PAS 9980 method. It is an assessment of the external wall system and its risk, not a pass-or-fail certificate.
EWS1
A form used in the mortgage valuation process to record the outcome of an external wall assessment. It is a lender tool, not a statutory requirement, and it is informed by a FRAEW rather than replacing it.
Where condition evidence fits
High-resolution facade imagery, captured elevation by elevation without scaffold, gives the assessor a clearer view of the external wall to inform a PAS 9980 appraisal.
Ovrsite provides that evidence. The appraisal itself remains with the qualified assessor; our job is to make sure they are working from a complete picture.