Complete Guide to Single Building Assessments (SBA) in Scotland
What Is a Single Building Assessment?
A Single Building Assessment (SBA) is a comprehensive fire safety assessment introduced by the Scottish Government to evaluate the risk posed by external wall systems and other fire safety concerns within multi-residential buildings.
The assessment typically combines:
- A Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW)
- Internal fire risk assessments
- Intrusive façade investigations
- Fire safety documentation reviews
- Risk mitigation recommendations
The purpose of the SBA process is to determine whether a building presents a risk to human life and whether remediation works may be required.
Which Buildings May Require an SBA?
Buildings commonly considered within scope include:
- Multi-residential buildings in Scotland
- Buildings over 11 metres in height
- Buildings with external wall cladding systems
- Properties constructed or significantly refurbished between 1992 and 2022
What Does an SBA Include?
A typical assessment may include:
- Review of existing fire safety documentation
- FRAEW assessment in accordance with PAS 9980
- Intrusive inspections
- Assessment of cavity barriers and insulation
- Fire stopping reviews
- Internal compartmentation assessments
- Recommendations for remediation works where required
Why Are SBAs Important?
An SBA can help:
- Demonstrate regulatory compliance
- Improve resident safety
- Support mortgage and insurance discussions
- Identify dangerous cladding systems
- Provide clarity on remediation requirements