Warning over the fire risks of living walls and roofs

But property owners and businesses in the East are now being warned about the fire risks of living walls, which may not be covered by standard insurance policies.

Anna Goodley, regional director for the East of England at Lycetts insurance brokers, has issued a caution as the demand for sustainable ‘vertical gardens’ continues to grow.

“With the increasing integration of green roofs and living walls in modern architectural designs, there is a pressing need to address the fire risks linked to the materials used in these on-trend systems,” she said.

“While we wholeheartedly support the move towards sustainable buildings that contribute to net zero targets, it’s crucial that safety is not compromised in the process.”

An example of a living wall (Image: Evannovostro) The danger lies in the walls’ cladding systems. These feature a backing wall with combustible insulation, posing a risk of fires spreading.

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“To mitigate this, it’s essential that the backing wall, insulation and supporting structures – including potting, irrigation and drainage systems – are constructed from non-combustible materials wherever possible,” Miss Goodley added.

“The impact of severe weather events and potential water leaks can significantly affect the safety and insurability of the building, as well as adjacent structures, if the living wall is not meticulously designed, installed and maintained.”

Anna Goodley, Lycetts' regional director for the East of England (Image: Supplied) So-called green roofs are also considered a risk due to the additional weight of their support structures, irrigation systems and the plants themselves.

Architects and property owners are being urged to hire qualified structural engineers during the design phase, and installers should conduct extreme weather tests immediately after instillation to check for leaks.

Annual inspections to remove plants with strong, deep roots that can cause significant structural damage to buildings are also strongly advised.

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Miss Goodley said: “I would urge anyone involved in a new sustainability project or retrofit that incorporates a living wall to consult their insurer during the planning stages to mitigate the risks, and ensure the creation of buildings that are not only stunning and sustainable but also safe.”