Dundee, Scotland: Residents of a block of flats in Dundee are raising urgent concerns following the discovery of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels in their roofs, prompting a mortgage crisis that is leaving them with potentially unsellable properties.

In May, Dundee City Council issued letters urging residents to inspect their roofs for Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels, a material known for its structural vulnerabilities. While the council covered the costs of inspections for properties with their own tenants, no such support was extended to blocks comprised entirely of private homeowners. A subsequent report from a structural engineer confirmed the presence of RAAC panels in one block of six flats. Although the engineer recommended reinforcing the roof with heavier timbers to mitigate risks and potentially restore property values, banks remain hesitant to issue mortgages on properties containing RAAC. This has effectively trapped homeowners, leaving them unable to sell or move. Furthermore, the lack of legislation to protect homeowners in these circumstances has enabled banks to profit from the crisis, worsening the situation for those who have become mortgage prisoners.

Local media reported that up to 800 properties in Dundee may contain RAAC, with the Council offering to cover inspection costs for tenants but refusing responsibility for privately owned homes. This lack of support has left residents like Wayne Hoskins in a precarious situation.

“My neighbor lost a sale when potential buyers withdrew their offer due to mortgage difficulties,” Hoskins said. “He eventually sold his property for nearly £30,000 less than the asking price. We are now facing the same struggle, trying to sell at auction and likely incurring a significant loss.”

Despite reaching out to the Council and local councillors for assistance, residents have received no response, leaving them in the dark about the potential risks posed by their roofs. Concerns about the structural integrity of RAAC panels are heightened by the lack of communication from officials.

“I used to live in a similar flat in the late 90s when the Council replaced the felt roofs, yet here we are again, over 30 years later, facing another crisis,” Hoskins added. “We feel abandoned and anxious about the safety of our homes.”

Residents are demanding clarity from Dundee City Council on the status of their properties, including how long the roofs may remain safe and whether they will be subject to eviction orders similar to those seen in Aberdeen.

Wilson Chowdhry, a community advocate leading a campaign for more transparency from Dundee City Council, emphasized the urgent need for action. “Our initial demands include greater clarity on the position of homeowners, more dialogue with affected residents, and fiscal assistance for families grappling with the consequences of poorly constructed buildings,” Chowdhry stated. “It’s unacceptable for residents to bear the burden of a problem that stems from council decisions made years ago.”

Residents are calling for:

Immediate communication from Dundee City Council regarding the status of RAAC panels and the risks associated.

Financial support for inspections and necessary structural reinforcements.

A clear plan for addressing the impact of RAAC on property values and mortgage availability.

As the situation unfolds, the residents of Dundee await answers and hope for swift action to protect their homes and investments.