The problem started in the Blair years, with relaxations in building control and inspection. The focus then was on heat retention, not flammability. Inspection and supervision was skimped as well. The developers usually set up SPVs for developments, which after the initial warranty/defects period may be wound up. Usually worthless anyway. Thus there is no clear legal route under existing law to require the original developer to remedy these defects. The leases will place the entire cost on the leaseholders. The government will do something about it, because there are 10s of thousands of voters caught, many of whom face bankruptcy and loss of livelihood as a result. The question however is what, and how much the government can stump up, given the extraordinary demands on public finances. It certainly won't be a complete bail-out.
Simon Cockshutt ● 1142d