Statement on the publication of the Grenfell Inquiry final report

As a London-based housing provider, our first thoughts are with the local community, especially the family and friends of the 72 people who lost their lives, and all those who survived this tragedy.

Nothing can ever be said or done to replace the lives that were lost, or adequately acknowledge the profound impact the fire has had on the survivors and the bereaved. Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragedy.

Octavia believes that everyone involved in the design, construction and management of buildings need to consider carefully the Inquiry’s final report, to make sure that we all learn from past failings and that we work together to do everything possible to prevent such a catastrophe happening in future. Collectively, we have much work to do to respond to the report’s findings and ensure everyone feels safe in their home.

Octavia takes building and fire safety extremely seriously, it’s our top priority. Since the first Grenfell Inquiry report, we have taken action to further improve the fire safety of our homes, including making a substantial provision in our financial plan, working with our developers and contractors to identify and progress cladding and compartmentation works wherever possible.

We are currently in talks with Abri about partnering with them by Octavia joining the Abri Group and with Abri’s support, we are working on a comprehensive programme to inspect all our homes and to make sure that they meet the very latest building and fire safety standards. Abri has a strong track record of completing fire remediation works and an excellent record on building and fire safety.

We will work closely with residents to keep them informed about progress with our building and fire safety programme, which will also be subject to review by our Resident Panel and regular oversight from the Octavia board.

We encourage residents who have any questions or concerns about how Octavia is responding to the issues highlighted by the Grenfell inquiry, to please do get in touch with us in the usual way.