Neil Clutterbuck, chief underwriting officer, reacts to Government cladding announcement

“Today’s announcement that the Government is investing £200million to remove and replace unsafe cladding in around 170 privately owned high – rise buildings is a welcome one as it is crucial that residents, no matter of property type are safe in their homes. Allianz has supported the Association of British Insurers and Fire Protection Association views that building regulations have not been updated appropriately over recent years or kept pace with changes in construction methods and materials. To echo yesterday’s statement from London Fire Brigade Commissioner, Danny Cotton, the key findings from the Hackett review must now be carried forward before momentum is lost. The official tests carried out to assess fire risks must accurately reflect the real world as properties built to a standard that protect life as well as the building itself will ultimately save more lives.”