Statement on replacing GRP composite fire doors in council homes

Sutton Council and Sutton Housing Partnership (SHP) have committed to replacing all fire doors made out of glass reinforced plastic (GRP) composite material installed in Sutton’s council homes.

We are prioritising our works timetable following a review of the independent fire risk assessments of all our homes.

It is important to note that the National Fire Chiefs Council and the government’s independent expert panel have both said the risk GRP doors pose to safety is low.

The decision to replace all GRP fire doors is part of our commitment to improving safety beyond the legally required minimum, and ensures we are in line with recently published guidance from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government.

Fire doors are just one of the many features that keep residents safe. Purpose built blocks like the ones we have in Sutton are designed with fire safety features built in, including fire breaks between properties and the use of non-flammable materials in construction.

We have invested in a series of fire safety improvement works which have been completed, are underway or will start shortly - including the installation or expansion of sprinkler systems in high rise blocks. It is the combination of all fire safety measures which keep a building safe. Overall safety is not compromised by an issue with one safety feature.

Safety is our primary concern and we are doing everything in our power, as quickly as possible, to ensure the homes we manage remain safe.

Cllr Jayne McCoy, Chair of Housing, Economy and Business Committee, Sutton Council and Steve Tucker, Managing Director, Sutton Housing Partnership


April 2019 update - We have now written to everyone whose home is included in the replacement programme. If you have any questions about the fire door replacement programme please email us at customercare@suttonhousingpartnership.org.uk

Visit the London Fire Brigade website for information on how to keep your home safe from fire and to book a free home fire safety visit.