Get familiar with the current guidelines
Far from simply ensuring your decking is non-combustible, there’s a lot more to consider when replacing balcony decking.
Every component of your decking must also be fire-rated, and it’s important to make sure that testing is as thorough as possible. That includes testing in the right orientation, for the intended application, and even the correct colour, as products with different colours can contain different materials.
Did you know that you must also have a clearly identifiable Accountable Person? Our blog on remedial decking explains what you need to be aware of before starting your project.
Following recent announcements to overhaul the Building Safety Regulator, it’s important to remain vigilant for updates.
Choose the right material…
While materials like timber and timber composites are off the table, there are a range of non-combustible options available to suit different projects.
Consider the current exterior of the building, the needs of its occupants, and your budget. Aluminium decking is a particularly popular choice, and porcelain is often favoured for high-end applications. Read our blog for more information on how various materials compare.
And the right company
Just as different materials perform differently in different areas, not all manufacturers offer the same quality.
Do your due diligence and ask the right questions upfront. Is their certificate provider UKAS accredited? Can they provide data and technical evidence of their fire rating? It’s also wise to select a company that has experience in the high-rise sector and understands the pitfalls to avoid and requirements to meet.
Pay close attention to the product itself too. Has it been engineered in a way to meet users’ needs? Does it provide superior drainage? It’s best to establish the facts as early as possible.
Use specialist installers
Installing balcony decking incorrectly can leave you just as liable as not using the right material. Installing the product using the wrong method could make its fire rating null and void.
Property managers, architects and developers who want to stay compliant should work with specialist installers who have a proven track record in delivering high-rise projects, and can ensure a high-quality finish that protects both residents and property value.
Check if you’re eligible for financial support
Government support schemes can help offset costs for buildings requiring safety defect remediation. The Building Safety Fund (BSF) was replaced by The Cladding Safety Scheme (CCS) in September 2025, providing financial assistance for remediation in buildings over 11 metres tall, covering expenses such as balcony decking replacement.
More about the scheme, what it covers, and eligibility, can be found here.
Why is remedial work taking so long?
Frustratingly, despite various commitments, this desperately required remedial work is woefully behind schedule. Towards the end of last year, the National Audit Office (NAO) estimated that more than 7,000 buildings in England with the wrong type of cladding still hadn’t been identified, yet alone replaced.
While this is clearly not acceptable, the process of remediating a building with unsafe materials is a long one, involving the input of multiple parties – for example, even the initial stage of identifying and assessing defects often requires a PAS 998 0 assessment and EWS1 form completion by a competent professional.
Determining liability is another step holding up a lot of projects, with many cases requiring legal or negotiated resolution. Depending on who this lies with, there are various grants and funding options to look into.
Even once the work is underway, time is needed to reassess against safety guidelines and acquire sign-off.
An already lengthy process is then compounded by a perfect storm of issues, from a lack of inspectors available to enforce the new regulations, to difficulties and delays in accessing funding, to a shortage in skilled professionals and contractors available for carrying out the agreed upon remedial works.
Whilst some of these problems may be unavoidable, it simply highlights the need to take action sooner rather than later.
Switching to non-combustible decking not only helps you meet fire regulations – it’s an investment in safety, durability, and long-term savings, so don’t be tempted to cut corners.
