Fixing cladding and safety defects: buildings at least 11 metres or 5 storeys (England)
What remediation means
Remediation means work to fix historic safety defects. This is different from routine repairs or maintenance.
The distinction matters because paying to fix historic safety defects is not the same as paying for routine repair or maintenance. There are strict rules landlords must follow before they can charge you to fix a defect (these rules are known as the leaseholder protections).
| Repairs (maintenance) | Remediation of historic safety defects |
|---|---|
| Fix or replace something that was once working but is now broken or worn out | Fix something that was never right (safe or compliant) to begin with |
| Covers wear and tear | Does not cover wear and tear |
Examples of typical remediation and repair work
Likely to be remediation
- Replacing defective cladding installed in 2005
- Replacing a fire door that did not meet safety standards at the time it was installed
- Fixing gaps between walls or floors left open during construction
- Fixing insulation that has failed earlier than expected due to poor installation
Likely to be a repair
- Replacing cladding that has reached the end of its life
- Replacing a fire door that was compliant but has worn out over time
- Fixing gaps that have appeared due to ageing or movement
- Fixing insulation that has degraded naturally over time
- Last updated:
- 29 April 2026
- Next review:
- 29 April 2028
Related content
Leaseholder protections: buildings at least 11 metres or 5 storeys (England)
How the protections limit what you pay for unsafe cladding and historic safety defects
Advice guide
What to check if you're charged for historic safety defects (England)
Check your rights if your landlord wants to charge you for fire safety work
Advice guide