IFE issues statement on EWS1 concerns

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has issued a statement regarding public concerns over fire safety assessments conducted by Adam Kiziak, director of Tri Fire Ltd.

The IFE said it recognised the challenges faced by buyers, sellers, and mortgage lenders when the quality of EWS1 certificates is questioned.

It has urged Tri Fire to address the concerns raised by consumers and to engage with mortgage lenders.

The statement follows reports that major lenders, including NatWest and Nationwide, have withdrawn mortgage offers for properties with EWS1 assessments issued by Tri Fire.

IFE confirms suspension of Kiziak’s membership

The IFE confirmed that it suspended Kiziak’s membership and his professional registration with the Engineering Council in August 2024.

The decision followed an investigation into complaints regarding his conduct in relation to EWS1 assessments.

The findings of this investigation were published in November 2024, detailing breaches of the IFE’s code of conduct.

The IFE stated: “We can also confirm that Mr Kiziak’s membership and registration remain suspended indefinitely while further recent complaints are being investigated, including those being reported in the media.”

Allegations of misuse of credentials

The controversy escalated after fire engineer Awwal Salisu alleged that his credentials had been used without his permission to sign off EWS1 forms.

Salisu told the BBC that he had agreed to assess up to 100 buildings for Tri Fire but found that many had insufficient information to justify certification.

He later discovered that safety certificates had been issued in his name for buildings he had not reviewed.

“I am very angry about it,” Salisu said. “I’ve had sleepless nights – my reputation is at stake.”

Public urged to verify fire engineers’ credentials

The IFE has reiterated its commitment to maintaining professional standards and advised the public to verify fire engineers’ credentials through its online directory.

A spokesperson for the organisation stated: “A public directory is available on the website that provides details of IFE registrants and specifies their areas of expertise.

“We encourage anybody seeking the services of a fire engineer to make use of the directory and ensure that the stated fire engineering specialisms match the needs of the client.”

The IFE also expects its members to undertake work only within their expertise and to have the appropriate insurance coverage.

Institution of Fire Engineers addresses concerns over Tri Fire EWS1 assessments: Summary

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has addressed public concerns regarding fire safety assessments carried out by Adam Kiziak, director of Tri Fire Ltd.

The IFE confirmed that Kiziak’s membership and Engineering Council registration were suspended in August 2024 following an investigation into EWS1 assessments.

This decision remains in place while further complaints are being examined.

Mortgage lenders, including NatWest and Nationwide, have withdrawn applications linked to Tri Fire’s EWS1 certificates.

Fire engineer Awwal Salisu has alleged that his credentials were used without permission to approve safety certificates for buildings he had not assessed.

The IFE has advised property buyers and businesses to verify fire engineers’ credentials using its online directory.

It has also urged Tri Fire to engage with consumers and mortgage lenders to resolve concerns.