Wilson Chowdhry: June 2025

Tuesday, 24 June 2025

Homeowners Slam Council Over “Engineered” Costs and False Promises in RAAC Crisis

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Homeowners Slam Council Over “Engineered” Costs and False Promises in RAAC Crisis
Homeowners in Tillicoultry affected by the RAAC crisis are reeling from what many are calling an engineered attempt by Clackmannanshire Council to exploit their vulnerable position. Despite early assurances, recent documents and proposals reveal a strategy that could leave residents burdened with astronomical costs, zero equity in their properties, and paltry offers in what is being dressed up as a “voluntary” acquisition process.

What Changed?

In an April meeting with RAAC homeowners, Council officials were clear: the cost estimates for remedial works would include a levy for unforeseen expenses. Yet, the newly published breakdown (see document excerpt above) now explicitly states that a 15–20% contingency is not included in the current costings. This means residents are being primed for even higher bills than initially suggested.
Further confusion and frustration stem from the June 16th meeting with contractor McConnell. At this meeting, homeowners were categorically assured that all costs presented included VAT. Gary Morrison even asked for specific clarification on this point. James Flynn, representing the contractor, confirmed that VAT was included.
Following the meeting, a lengthy conversation was held with council officer Kim Grieve to explore whether further VAT exemptions could be applied—particularly for environmentally beneficial products and retrofits. Additional discussions with James Flynn have since raised the possibility that exemptions may also apply to:
Homeowners over the age of 60
Empty properties
Works commissioned by the Council (subject to further review)
Kim Grieve was to investigate these options, as well as possible VAT discounts for Clackmannanshire Council itself.

A “Kick in the Teeth”: VAT Now Being Added

Despite these assurances and ongoing discussions, the options report going to councillors on 26th June now states that VAT is in addition to the original price—and that Mr Flynn had been mistaken in claiming it was included. This is a shocking reversal and represents a £10,000 increase for some residents—on top of already unmanageable costs.
Residents are demanding:
A definitive statement before the Council meeting on VAT inclusion/exemption
Clear explanation on how VAT will be invoiced
Justification for estimating VAT across the whole project when products were supposedly priced with VAT already included
They are also calling on the experienced estimators at McConnell’s to:
Conduct a thorough review of whether VAT exemptions or reductions are achievable under current HMRC guidance
Work with Clackmannanshire Council to explore a shared contract model between homeowners and the Council, but only if it improves the likelihood of qualifying for VAT exemptions

Sky-High Costs, Zero Equity

The revised project costs are staggering:
£41,626.80 per property for Park Street and High Street residents (roof and wall render works)
£44,202.24 for Chapelle Crescent residents
To make matters worse, the Council is applying a “nil market value” for these properties. Their options report claims that after repairs, the properties will be worth around £65,000, leaving an apparent equity of around £21,000—before legal and administrative deductions.
This does not reflect reality. Many homeowners hold pre-RAAC valuations—some over six years old—that far exceed this figure. Moreover, as leaseholders, they retain a share in the land, an asset the Council has entirely ignored.

A Strategy to Force Sales on the Cheap?

Residents are now questioning the Council’s motives. They believe this pricing and valuation structure has been designed to:
Deny sundry debt loans, by claiming residents lack enough equity
Pressure owners into “voluntary” sales, where the Council acquires homes cheaply
The report openly states:
“Officers be authorised to negotiate individually with the owners to voluntarily acquire their property… [which] currently hold a ‘nil’ market value…”
Local landlord Grant Kerr, who owns two affected properties, stated:
“It’s clear the Council has engineered this entire process to pressure owners into selling. I believe they’ve wanted my properties back from the start, and have now constructed a valuation model that allows them to make rock-bottom offers while maintaining the illusion of fairness. In 2023, they had already approached me with a buy-back proposal—this now feels like a cynical attempt to achieve that same goal by other means.”

Additional Confusion: Unoccupied Property Reductions

In the options report, the Council also refers to possible cost reductions, stating:
"A reduction may also be applicable given the period of time that the properties have been unoccupied."
Homeowners now seek immediate clarity on:
How will this reduction manifest?
Will it apply as a percentage, a flat fee, or be calculated per property?
Will all affected homes qualify?

Wilson Chowdhry Responds

Wilson Chowdhry, Chair of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, condemned the Council’s approach:
“The Council’s actions are disgraceful. They are exploiting homeowners who have already suffered months of displacement and uncertainty. Not a single other council has applied a ‘zero market value’ approach. It’s an unprecedented and cynical move to acquire private homes for social housing at the lowest possible cost. We will challenge this injustice through every legal and political route available.”

Homeowners Demand Accountability Now

RAAC-affected homeowners are demanding immediate and transparent action from Clackmannanshire Council. Their key calls include:
A fully independent investigation into how costings and valuations were derived.
A detailed, itemised breakdown of VAT charges, including any potential exemptions or reductions that could be applied.
If VAT is to be imposed, the right to pursue a competitive tender process under Scottish public procurement rules.
An urgent reassessment of the “nil market value” model, which fails to reflect historic valuations and land ownership.
A formal and written response before 26th June, clarifying VAT status, valuation methodology, and the feasibility of shared contract arrangements that may reduce costs for homeowners.
This fight is about more than just financial figures. It’s about justice, transparency, and the basic right to be treated fairly in your own home.

Thursday, 19 June 2025

Zero Value, Zero Justice: Tillicoultry RAAC Homeowners Betrayed Again

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Published: 19 June 2025

Tillicoultry homeowners devastated by shocking £0 property valuations

Homeowners from Tillicoultry, already reeling from the chaos and distress caused by the discovery of RAAC concrete in their properties, have now been delivered another blow — this time by J & E Shepherd Chartered Surveyors, who are approved by Clackmannanshire Council.

Surveyors recently submitted new valuation reports for RAAC-affected properties which included the following figures:

Market Value at Date of Inspection: £0
Market Value on Completion of Essential Repairs: £65,000
Market Value as at 03/06/2025: £0
Insurance Reinstatement Value: £170,000

These numbers have sent shockwaves through the community. Most troubling is the repeated assessment that the homes are worth nothing, both now and in the near future, despite a "reinstatement value" (the cost to rebuild the property) soaring to £170,000 — up from £120,000 just a few years ago.

In stark contrast, a mortgage valuation conducted in 2019 by The Mortgage Works stated the home’s market value to be £70,000, even in its current condition — and the same value after essential works. Now, even after repairs, the value has inexplicably dropped to £65,000, a confusing and seemingly baseless reduction.

🔹 1. Drop in Property Value (Post-Repair)

Previous Value (2019, post-repair): £70,000
New Value (2025, post-repair): £65,000

Percentage drop =

$\frac{70,000 - 65,000}{70,000} \times 100 = \frac{5,000}{70,000} \times 100 \approx 7.14\%$

✅ Approximate drop in value: 7.14%

🔹 2. Increase in Insurance Reinstatement Value

Previous reinstatement value (2019): £120,000
New reinstatement value (2025): £170,000

Percentage increase =

$\frac{170,000 - 120,000}{120,000} \times 100 = \frac{50,000}{120,000} \times 100 \approx 41.67\%$

✅ Approximate increase in reinstatement cost: 41.67%

Further local market comparisons indicate that two-bedroom homes in Tillicoultry are still selling for an average of £90,000, adding to the frustration and disbelief among homeowners.

Zero market value — more than an insult

The ramifications of a “£0” market value go far beyond emotional harm. Under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003, the council could — in theory — seize these homes without compensation, or offer a token sum far below real-world value. This has left many feeling legally and financially exposed.

Fiona Crichton, one of the affected homeowners, expressed her deep frustration:

“It’s outrageous that these valuations have been issued. It feels as though the surveyor appointed by the council is working hand-in-hand with them. This entire process is costing us dearly — from paying for these meaningless reports to replacing roofs, and now facing even higher costs this year because of the council’s delays and mishandling.”

To add insult to injury, Fiona says the council has also refused to acknowledge damage she says was clearly caused by them — despite earlier admitting they would carry out repairs. She shared part of an email from Jim Laird, Team Leader from the Council’s Housing Repairs division, which reads:

“Whilst we do not believe it was caused by any fault on our part… we are willing to carry out the necessary repairs as soon as the building is deemed safe.”

Fiona responded:

“I’m absolutely flabbergasted. They’ve agreed to cover the repairs, yet still refuse to take full responsibility. It’s the same attitude they’ve shown to all RAAC-affected homeowners — they sold us properties with hidden structural risks and now deny any accountability. I’ve completely lost faith in both local and national government.”

A community failed — again

Tillicoultry’s RAAC homeowners have faced:

Evacuation from their homes
Endless delays in council decisions
Bureaucratic back-and-forth
Escalating repair costs
A complete collapse in home value
The constant fear of asset seizure with no compensation

And now, an official stamp that their homes — often their largest investment — are worthless.

This shocking injustice has reignited calls for full transparency, a public inquiry, and urgent financial redress for all RAAC-affected homeowners in Scotland.

For now, however, Tillicoultry residents are left fighting a system that appears determined to disown responsibility — and possibly their homes too.

Wilson Chowdhry, Chair of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, said:

“These latest valuations are nothing short of a scandal. To assign a market value of zero to people's homes—many of which are still standing, repairable, and clearly comparable to other properties being sold locally—is both misleading and deeply damaging. It sends a chilling message to every affected homeowner across the country: that your life’s investment can be wiped out on paper overnight, and with it, your rights and financial security.

Worse still, this opens the door for councils to exploit legal loopholes under the Building (Scotland) Act 2003 or equivalent legislation elsewhere, allowing them to issue compulsory purchase orders at minimal or no compensation. Families who bought their homes in good faith, with no disclosure of the presence or risk of RAAC, now face the threat of losing everything—through no fault of their own.

It is unconscionable that those responsible for approving and managing RAAC-built housing are now walking away from their responsibilities, leaving homeowners to foot the bill for repairs, temporary accommodation, and now shockingly low or zero-valued property reports. We need urgent national intervention. Government must set clear legal protections, ensure fair market compensation, and hold councils accountable.

The time for hand-washing and blame-shifting is over. These are real people with families, memories, and decades of hard work tied up in these homes. They deserve justice—not silence, evasion, and financial ruin.”

Clackmannanshire RAAC Homeowners Left to Pay the Price for Council Delays

Published: 19 June 2025

By: UK RAAC Campaign Group

On 9th June, RAAC-affected homeowners in Clackmannanshire gathered outside a long-overdue meeting between Councillors and representatives from McConnell, a contractor appointed to present detailed proposals for the long-awaited remediation of dangerously compromised homes. Residents rallied for a fair deal, determined to have their voices heard after over a year of delays and deteriorating conditions.

While the overall proposals outlined by McConnell were cautiously welcomed—demonstrating a long-term and professional approach to RAAC removal and full refurbishment—residents were dismayed to learn that these very proposals had been first offered to the Council over a year ago, yet were never shared with the homeowners till February 2025 and due to their late responses to lead campaigner Wilson Chowdhry, reaching this stage of meeting with the contractor has only come about now. This delay, they say, has added thousands of pounds to the projected cost of refurbishment for each household.

About McConnell and the Proposed Works

McConnell is a well-established UK-based provider of refurbishment, retrofit, and planned maintenance services, with a strong track record of delivering high-quality projects—including experience with RAAC removal—in Clackmannanshire and beyond. Their local supply chain and established teams add an extra layer of efficiency and familiarity to the proposed project.

Two primary options were put forward:

Option 1: Full External Refurbishment

Option 2: Partial External Refurbishment

Both options include:

Full RAAC roof panel removal and replacement with a steel deck roof
Insulated roof coverings
Internal works and asbestos surveys
Scaffolding and safe site setup

However, Option 1 (Full Refurbishment) goes further by including:

Scrim and pin render system in a choice of colours
Cavity wall insulation
Renewed gutters, fascias, and plastics
Base band and landscaping works
Guaranteed durability and aesthetic improvements

Full refurbishment provides:

A refreshed, modernised exterior
Lower energy bills due to improved insulation
Long-term guarantees for peace of mind

Partial refurbishment would be more cost-efficient but may not qualify for the same level of guarantee or visual improvement an none of the homeowners wanted that option.

Chronic Delays Now Costing Homeowners Dearly

At the meeting, homeowners learned that McConnell’s plan had originally been shared with the Council in 2024, but no action had been taken to communicate or consult with residents at that time. One homeowner at the protest stated:

“We could have had work underway months ago. Now our costs are up, our homes are in worse shape, and we’re the ones left to pay for it.”

The total cost estimate for Chapelle Crescent is £368,352—breaking down to £30,696 per property (based on 12 households). A similar scope applies to High Street/Park Street.

Technical Highlights of the Refurbishment Plan

The project includes the following robust upgrades:

RAAC Demolition & Repairs
SIGnature Insulated Flat Roofing System with 150mm insulation and fire-rated layers
Bonded Bead Cavity Wall Insulation – energy efficient, water-resistant, fire-compliant
EnviroDash Scrim Render System – high durability and visual appeal
New drainage, plastics, and fascia systems
Asbestos Surveys – for safety and compliance
Landscaping and base band works

Approvals, Warranties & Timeline

Before works can begin, a Building Warrant must be secured. This statutory approval process takes approximately 8 weeks, covering:

Structural engineering design
Thermal and sound performance
Fire safety compliance

After successful completion, residents will receive:

✅ 25-Year Roofing System Guarantee
✅ 10-Year Render System Guarantee
✅ 25-Year Cavity Wall Insulation Insurance Guarantee
✅ Building Warrant Completion Certificate

If McConnell proceeds, residents can expect:

A 7–14 day Works Starting Letter
Advance request to remove personal belongings from top-floor flats
A 7-day Completion Notice ahead of project handover
Post-handover support for move-in preparations

A Step Forward—But Too Late for Some

This meeting marked the first time many homeowners saw real, tangible progress. But it also marked a bitter realisation: the solution was available a year ago, yet withheld without explanation. With costs rising and properties decaying, campaigners continue to call for transparency, accountability, and financial fairness.

The UK RAAC Campaign Group supports Clackmannanshire residents in demanding immediate progress—and calling for compensation or cost relief to reflect the Council’s inaction.

If you are a homeowner affected by RAAC or want to support the campaign, please contact us or follow our updates on https://www.facebook.com/groups/7162085643898771

Welsh Government’s RAAC Response Falls Short – Apathy in the Face of Crisis

If you are a Welsh resident, please show your support by signing our petition to the Welsh Government: https://petitions.senewales/petitdd.ions/246606
JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)
PLEASE SIGN OUR OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION (HERE).

WATCH FIRST NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL NEWS FEATURE ON RAAC HOUSING CRISES (HERE)

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By Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman, UK RAAC Campaign Group

On 17th June, the Welsh Government issued a long-awaited response to the UK RAAC Campaign Group’s multiple letters regarding the alarming situation facing homeowners in Hirwaun, where properties are blighted by dangerous RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete). Read full response (here)

Unfortunately, the letter from Richard Baker, Deputy Director of the Place Division, reveals a troubling complacency that continues to fuel anxiety among affected residents. While Welsh Government representatives offer polite words and a summary of existing schemes, they entirely fail to address the crux of our concerns: the current system is broken, and families are being left behind.

Unfit Financial Support Leaves Homeowners Abandoned

We are told that Rhondda Cynon Taf Council, using Welsh Government funding, is offering a £6,500 grant alongside an interest-free loan. However, this assistance is riddled with restrictive conditions. Many of the affected homeowners are elderly, vulnerable, or on low incomes. The majority will not meet eligibility criteria, nor can they afford repayments—even without interest. What is offered is not real support; it is a hollow gesture that leaves most with no viable option for making their homes safe.

This is not just about crumbling concrete—it is about shattered lives and mental health trauma. People are living in fear, trapped in properties they cannot sell, fix, or safely inhabit.

Public Inquiry Rejected Despite Serious Oversight

One of our most urgent calls was for a Public Inquiry into the historic use of RAAC in public and private housing. Welsh Government's dismissal of this request is deeply disappointing. They argue that “much is already known” about RAAC and suggest an inquiry would uncover little new.

But this completely ignores our core concern: the issue is not just about the material—it is about the process. How did this happen? Who failed to act when signs of risk were clear? Were there failures in regulation, inspection, and communication? Have conflicts of interest or even corruption played a role in this national scandal?

Only a Public Inquiry can provide the transparency, accountability, and justice that Welsh homeowners deserve.

High-Risk Property Register: “Too Hard, Too Expensive”?

Perhaps the most shocking revelation in the Welsh Government’s reply is their refusal to establish a register of high-risk properties. The reason? It would require “significant resources.”

This is unacceptable. The very point of government is to protect its citizens, especially when their safety is at stake. The idea that cost and complexity outweigh the value of a proactive safety database is short-sighted and negligent. A register is not a luxury—it is a basic tool for monitoring public risk, guiding remediation, and preventing further tragedy.

The lack of such a register leaves countless families in the dark, uncertain if their homes—or those of their neighbours—pose hidden dangers.

Playing Catch-Up Instead of Leading

Perhaps most worrying is the Welsh Government’s evident preference to wait for action from the UK Government or for England to legislate first before taking bold steps of their own. This passive approach is neither innovative nor responsible. Wales has the power and the moral duty to lead when it comes to housing safety. It should not sit idle until Westminster acts.

We expected courage, leadership, and empathy. Instead, we have been met with bureaucracy, deflection, and delay.

Our Next Steps

The UK RAAC Campaign Group will not allow this issue to fade into silence. We are continuing to campaign nationally and locally for:

A fully funded remediation scheme for all affected homeowners, without restrictive conditions.
An independent Public Inquiry to examine not just the material failures of RAAC, but the institutional ones.
A mandatory register of high-risk buildings, so that families are not left to guess whether their homes are safe.
A more proactive and principled response from devolved governments, especially Wales, which must stop deferring responsibility.

The people of Hirwaun, and countless others across Wales, deserve better. It is time for the Welsh Government to take this crisis seriously—and act.

Continuing the Fight: Our Latest Response

In light of the Welsh Government’s disappointing reply, I have issued a further letter highlighting that the primary concerns raised in our original correspondence remain unanswered. I have reiterated that the current grants and loans are inaccessible to most affected homeowners due to strict eligibility conditions, and that this leaves families without options and overwhelmed by anxiety. I have also challenged the refusal to support a Public Inquiry, arguing that such a process would not only uncover safety defects but also shine a light on systemic failures and potential corruption—offering a strong justification for Welsh Government involvement. Until genuine action is taken, our campaign will continue pressing for justice, transparency, and lasting solutions.

If you're affected by RAAC or want to join our campaign, contact us at wilson@aasecurity.co.uk.

Wednesday, 18 June 2025

Justice at Last – Rogue Ilford Letting Agent Ordered to Pay £3,450 to Landlord

Image of Wilson Chowdhry

By Wilson Chowdhry

After an exhausting battle for accountability and transparency, I am pleased to report a significant, though bittersweet, victory in my long-running dispute with Apex Dwellings Ltd. Following a protracted complaints process and an unsuccessful early resolution, the Property Redress Scheme (PRS) has issued a formal ruling in my favour — ordering the rogue agent to pay a total of £3,450.

This includes:

£1,650 in compensation
The £1,600 commission fee they had previously withheld
A requirement to provide receipts for both properties
Assistance in correcting the faulty AST for 57a Green Lane

Let me be absolutely clear: this case has revealed a disturbing level of malpractice and manipulation that no landlord should ever be subjected to. I initiated this complaint after enduring a sustained period of poor service, deception, and obfuscation from Apex Dwellings Ltd. Their conduct not only caused significant financial losses but prolonged mental distress, frustration, and complications in managing my own property.

Key Findings by the Property Redress Scheme

No terms of business or management contracts were ever shared with me, despite repeated requests.
No signed tenancy agreements, inventories, or vetting checks were initially provided.
The agent misrepresented council incentive schemes, possibly to unlawfully retain a £5,000 landlord incentive.
Referencing and ASTs were riddled with errors, creating legal barriers and impeding tenant eviction processes.
The agent falsely claimed non-responsibility for the tenants, yet clearly acted as the main liaison for tenant issues at both properties.
A 50% rent advance was taken from a tenant, creating further instability and confusion — all without my approval or knowledge.

In many ways, the PRS report vindicates everything I have been asserting for over a year. Despite submitting extensive evidence and patiently navigating the complaints system, I was met with apathy, deflection, and hostility from Apex Dwellings Ltd throughout the process.

Wilson Chowdhry Comments:

“This is a warning to all letting agents who think they can exploit landlords or tenants for personal gain. Apex Dwellings Ltd behaved disgracefully and failed at every level to uphold their legal and moral obligations. They lied, manipulated information, ignored complaints, and failed to disclose vital tenancy documentation — all while enriching themselves through opaque incentive schemes.”

“Let this case be a line in the sand. I will not allow rogue agents to abuse the trust of landlords or tenants, especially not under the guise of professionalism. I call upon Trading Standards and the relevant housing enforcement bodies to take a closer look at Apex Dwellings Ltd, because this level of misconduct demands more than just a financial slap on the wrist.”

“Justice may have been delayed, but it was not denied. I stood up for my rights and the rights of my tenants. I will continue to expose wrongdoing wherever it exists, especially when the most vulnerable are at risk of being exploited.”

What Happens Next?

While the PRS decision is binding if both parties accept it — and I will — I now await Apex Dwellings Ltd to fulfill their obligations within the stipulated timeframe. If they fail to do so, I will escalate the matter through enforcement channels, and I will not hesitate to go public again.

I am also seriously considering referring specific aspects of this case — particularly the misuse of landlord incentives and failure to maintain proper holding accounts — to Trading Standards and potentially law enforcement, as the PRS is not mandated to address criminal or fraudulent behaviour.

Justice Delayed, Not Yet Delivered
“This case has been a nightmare to navigate, and even now, I’m not sure full justice will be served—not for me or the four other landlords I believe were also misled,” said Wilson Chowdhry. “Redbridge Council staff were obstinately unhelpful from the outset, even when I presented them with clear evidence that Mr Baloch had acted in a rogue and deceptive manner. They simply didn’t want to get involved.”
He continued: “Trading Standards initially acknowledged that Mr Baloch was using a false address, but then refused to take any enforcement action. Now, nearly eight months later—after a painfully slow Property Redress Scheme process—I’m being advised to submit that matter back to Trading Standards. It’s a merry-go-round of buck-passing.”
To make matters worse, Mr Chowdhry says Mr Baloch is now ignoring communication from the PRS, raising further concerns.
“The PRS has ruled in my favour, but that’s only half the battle. I can’t even be sure Mr Baloch will pay the compensation. If he continues to ignore the PRS, I may have to escalate the matter to the courts. This could drag on for much longer yet—and that’s incredibly frustrating after all the stress, time and documentation I’ve had to provide.”

He concluded: “The system is not built to protect landlords from rogue agents. It feels like justice is reserved only for those with the stamina and resources to keep fighting. That’s wrong.”
Justice Denied for Many?
“What’s most disturbing is how many agencies have walked away from their responsibilities,” said Wilson Chowdhry. “At first, both the police and Action Fraud agreed to investigate the scam—but then they backed out, saying it was a matter for the Property Redress Scheme. That’s an outrageous dereliction of duty, especially when we’re talking about potential large-scale fraud affecting at least four other landlords. These landlords have lost thousands of pounds each and may now never get justice.”

Mr Chowdhry explained that evidence of misconduct went beyond poor service.

“I submitted a phone recording to Redbridge Council’s Fraud and Corruption Team that strongly suggested collusion and even possible fraud by staff and the letting agent,” he said. “It was compelling, yet I’ve been told I’ll never be informed of the outcome. How can the public have faith in these systems when serious allegations just vanish into a bureaucratic black hole?”

Despite Mr Chowdhry’s efforts to press for reform, Redbridge Council has refused to let him speak publicly on the issue.

“I’ve repeatedly asked to speak at a public council meeting to demand changes to the system that allowed this to happen—but I’m being blocked,” he explained. “The council is hiding behind a technicality, claiming it’s a personal grievance rather than a matter of public concern. That’s a bureaucratic cover-up. What could be more public than an unregulated agent exploiting a broken complaints system while the council and other bodies sit on their hands?”

He added: “We should be reforming the way landlords and tenants are protected from rogue agents. Instead, I’m being stonewalled. This is not just undemocratic—it’s disgraceful.”

Final Words

This is a victory not just for me, but for landlords across the UK who have been treated unfairly and left voiceless. Let this be an example of what can be achieved when you persist and challenge malpractice with resolve and clarity.

If you are a landlord or tenant facing similar issues, do not suffer in silence. There are mechanisms of redress, and people who will support you — including myself.

We must hold the property sector to higher standards — and I intend to be at the forefront of that fight.

Complaint Reference: PRSC115996
Agent: Apex Dwellings Ltd
Properties involved: 57a Green Lane & 71 Sunnyside Road, Ilford, Essex

Let me know if you'd like to read or share the full PRS report — I'm happy to provide it upon request.

Friday, 13 June 2025

Sold a Time Bomb: The RAAC Scandal Facing Scotland’s Forgotten Homeowners

JOIN OUR 'UK RAAC CAMPAIGN GROUP' FB PAGE (HERE)

PLEASE SIGN OUR PETITIONS (CLICK HERE), OFFICIAL SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT (CLICK HERE) AND OFFICIAL UK GOVERNMENT PETITION (HERE).

WATCH FIRST NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL NEWS FEATURE ON RAAC HOUSING CRISES (HERE)

Watch the historic moment as the Scottish Parliament Petitions Committee officially backs the UK RAAC Campaign Group’s petition—a groundbreaking step in our fight for justice and accountability! (here)

Please complete our impact survey (here)

Housing Time Bomb: Why Scotland’s RAAC Victims Are Taking to the Streets

“We are not invisible. We are not collateral damage. We are homeowners abandoned by the system.”

On Wednesday 18th June 2025, RAAC-affected homeowners from across Scotland will gather outside the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh from 9:00am to hold a peaceful but resolute protest. Their goal is to demand real action from the Scottish Government on a crisis that has uprooted lives, drained finances, and left hundreds of families feeling forgotten.

The protest coincides with the scheduled hearing of a key public petition—PE2150, submitted by campaigner Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group—to the Citizen Participation and Public Petitions Committee. The petition calls for an urgent amendment to the remit of the Scottish Housing Regulator (SHR) or the creation of a new body altogether, to ensure that owners of ex-council homes are protected during structural crises like the one currently unfolding due to Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC).

A Crisis in the Shadows

RAAC, a cheap and lightweight building material widely used between the 1950s and 1990s, has become synonymous with structural failure. In publicly built buildings across the UK, and especially in Scotland, RAAC has been found to crack, sag, and even collapse with little warning. Once praised for its affordability, RAAC is now a source of fear and instability.

Yet while the public sector has scrambled to inspect and mitigate risks in schools, hospitals, and social housing, one group has been consistently and cruelly overlooked: private homeowners who purchased former council houses. Many of these individuals—elderly residents, single parents, and low-income families—used Right to Buy schemes to achieve the dream of homeownership, only to find themselves trapped in crumbling, unsafe buildings. Local authorities had quietly offloaded liability for structural issues like RAAC, failing to declare these risks at the time of sale—despite growing evidence that councils were already aware of safety concerns related to the material. These homeowners were handed a ticking time bomb, with no warning, no support, and now, no protection.

In towns and cities like Tillicoultry, West Lothian, Dundee, Glenrothes, Aberdeen, and beyond, families have faced sudden evacuations, uncertain futures, and in some cases complete silence from authorities. Some are living in temporary accommodation far from work and school; others remain in RAAC-affected homes simply because they have nowhere else to go.

The Petition: PE2150

Wilson Chowdhry’s petition is a direct challenge to the institutional void homeowners find themselves in. Currently, the SHR’s responsibilities are restricted to social tenants—those who rent from councils or housing associations. This means that when a private homeowner in an ex-council house discovers dangerous materials like RAAC, they have no regulator to turn to, no statutory advocate, and no coordinated government response. Responsibility for a solution currently rests with local councils, but these authorities ubiquitously pursue routes of support that align with their own priorities—often proposing remedial schemes that would force homeowners to shoulder costs of tens of thousands of pounds, pushing many into homelessness or bankruptcy. An independent body is urgently required to ensure that these homeowners receive a fair, unbiased, and equitable resolution.

The petition calls on the Scottish Parliament to:

Expand the SHR’s mandate to include private owners of ex-council properties, or
Create a new body specifically tasked with protecting these homeowners.

The new or updated regulatory body would:

Monitor safety standards and conduct inspections in homes affected by structural issues.
Coordinate support, including financial assistance and rehousing options, especially where local authorities have conflicts of interest.
Ensure transparency by requiring authorities to disclose known structural risks, including RAAC.
Provide advocacy and oversight for homeowners facing structural crises.

The Numbers Tell the Story

2,445 social homes in Scotland have been officially confirmed to contain RAAC.
1,357 privately owned homes (former council homes) have been identified as affected through FOI requests.
The total number of RAAC-affected residential properties in Scotland is now estimated at 3,844 or more—though campaigners argue this number is significantly underreported.

Despite these figures, there remains no clear policy, no coordinated response, and no financial package to support those privately affected.

“This is a national housing emergency hidden in plain sight,” says Wilson Chowdhry. “We have people living in homes that could literally collapse over their heads, and no one is taking responsibility because they no longer rent from a council.”

A Call to Action

The protest on 18th June isn’t just about a petition—it’s a demand for dignity, justice, and recognition. It’s about ensuring that no homeowner is punished for taking pride in their home ownership. That no family is left behind simply because they signed a mortgage instead of a tenancy agreement.

Homeowners, campaigners, and supporters from across Scotland will stand outside Holyrood in the hope that elected officials finally listen—not just to data, but to the human cost behind the numbers.

The group invites members of the public, media, and MSPs to attend the protest, speak with affected homeowners, and join in the call for immediate reform and support.

“We didn’t cause this crisis. But we are living with its consequences. We won’t be ignored any longer.”

Event Details: Protest for
🗓 Date: Wednesday 18th June 2025
🕘 Time: From 9:00 AM at 10.15 AM participants will enter Holyrood to hear the petition committee's deliberations.
📍 Location: Scottish Parliament, Edinburgh

To learn more about the petition, visit:
[Petition PE2150 on the Scottish Parliament Website] (Petition link)

If you would like to support the campaign, speak at the protest, or offer media coverage, please contact:
Wilson Chowdhry
📧 wilson@aasecurity.co.uk

Friday, 6 June 2025

Tillicoultry Homeowner Outraged After RAAC Valuation Photos Reveal Extensive Damage

IMAGE: Debris from broken plaster crushed into the carpet and left undisposed.

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Fiona Crichton, a homeowner of a two-bedroom flat in Tillicoultry, has been unable to access or rent out her property since it was condemned in October 2023. The cause? RAAC — Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete — a now-infamous crumbly concrete once used in construction, which is now recognised as a serious safety risk.

Recently, negotiations between Clackmannanshire Council and affected homeowners have centred on removing the dangerous RAAC roofs and replacing them with safe wooden cassette structures. One of the proposals under consideration includes loans issued as a sundry debt, secured by a charge on the property. These loans would assist with essential structural work and the making good of the ceilings. However, homeowners like Miss Crichton would be left to reinstate the interiors of their homes and fund any additional renovations themselves.

While the council has assured residents that any damage caused by their contractors would be compensated — even confirming that costs for windows damaged during post-evacuation shuttering will be covered — Fiona’s experience raises serious concerns about how these vacant properties are being managed and the council’s willingness to take responsibility when it matters.

Valuation Photos Reveal Shocking State of Property

IMAGE: In addition to the crushed and broken plaster, furniture has been thrown about and blinds carelessly tossed onto the floor.

As part of the loan assessment process, homeowners were required to consent to valuations of their properties—covering both the current market value and a forecasted value after remediation. However, this approach appears to contradict the agreement reached during the 15th May 2025 council hearing on a petition submitted by Wilson Chowdhry, Chairperson of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, and Lynsey McQuater, Chairperson of the Tillicoultry RAAC Campaign Group, and heard on 3rd April 2025. The petition also explicitly requested a pre-RAAC declaration valuation.

Mr. Chowdhry believes that the council’s failure to provide this initial valuation may be a deliberate tactic to gauge the potential increase in property values after remediation, possibly to reconsider demolition or to calculate loan interest based on inflated property values. He describes this as a covert way of imposing a stealth tax on some of the most vulnerable residents—those who have already lost their homes during an exceptionally difficult time.

Mr. Chowdhry has called for a firm assurance from the council that a pre-RAAC valuation will be provided as originally requested and ratified.

During the valuation process, Miss Crichton requested photos of her home to understand its condition ahead of the valuation.

What she received was shocking.

The images clearly show extensive internal damage: carpets and LVT flooring scratched and filthy, broken plaster scattered across the floors, and crushed debris embedded into surfaces. This, Fiona asserts, is the result of careless work by contractors who entered the home to create ceiling hatches for RAAC inspections without placing any protective coverings on the flooring or furniture.

Fiona Chrichton said:

"In one of the rooms, the ceiling hatches run the entire length — but they’ve been cut at inconsistent sizes and look completely haphazard. The mess left behind is disgraceful. Honestly, my five-year-old son makes less mess and takes more responsibility for cleaning up."

Mr. Wilson Chowdhry, whose daughter owns a RAAC-affected home in Aberdeen, said:

"The scale of plaster removal in Clackmannanshire homes is several times greater than what we’ve seen in Aberdeen. There, contractors took care to install access panels that could be neatly opened for future inspections. By contrast, what’s been done here looks more like a job from 'Bob the Builder' — rushed, careless, and completely unprofessional."

Worse still, Fiona was horrified to see her front door and door frame visibly damaged — clear evidence of a forced entry. Yet when she raised these concerns, she was met with blanket denial from the council.

Kim Grieve, Project Co-ordinator at Clackmannanshire Council, wrote in an email:

“Apart from some items being moved aside for clear access to create the ceiling hatches, the property was found in this condition.”

Fiona strongly refutes this. She replied:

“My flat was not in this condition before the evacuation. As I said, I was in the flat a few weeks before the evacuation. Plus a tradesman was in the day before the evacuation. It was definitely not like this.

It was in excellent condition. The carpets and LVT flooring have clearly been damaged. Plus I can see from the photo that the front door has been opened by force. A key has not been used.”

She also reported that a washer-dryer which had been fully functional prior to the evacuation no longer works — adding to her growing list of grievances.

Denial and Lack of Responsibility

IMAGE: The council claims this reflects the condition the tenants were living in — is this acceptable?

The council's refusal to acknowledge responsibility for the damage has left Fiona deeply frustrated. She notes that her property was well-maintained for her tenants and that the implication they lived in such conditions is both false and offensive.

Mr Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the UK RAAC Campaign Group, who has been actively supporting residents, confirmed that Fiona's concern had already been raised with the council — notably during a meeting at Clackmannanshire Council’s Kilncraig building. He expressed dismay that despite these concerns being aired in a formal setting, no effort was made by the council to address the damage before sending out the photos.

Mr Chowdhry further stated:

“I personally asked council officers if they needed keys for any flats to undertake the valuations, and Kevin Wells confirmed that the council already had keys for all the properties.”

Fiona has repeatedly maintained that she never provided a key — leading to a disturbing conclusion that someone either forced their way into the flat or failed to use a proper locksmith. “The fact that someone thought a good kick was a valid form of entry is disturbing to say the least,” Mr Chowdhry said.

Miss Crichton explained:

"I only found out about the evacuation when my tenant called to say that police and council officials were forcing them out of the property. The council maintained minimal communication with me and dealt directly with the tenants. Even after I refunded their full rent, the key to my home was never returned. I tried to reach the council, but no one would take responsibility — the lead officer, Mr. Wilson Lees, was on holiday. I was alarmed to receive a Sheriff’s notice warning of penalties for denying the council access, yet I couldn’t get hold of anyone who actually understood what was happening. I assumed the council had collected the keys from the tenants, but learning they didn’t — and instead chose to force entry — is deeply disturbing."

Council Silence and Escalating Concerns

IMAGE: Water spillages and broken plaster combine to create an unhygienic environment in the kitchen.

Despite multiple calls made by Mr Chowdhry to Kevin Wells, Strategic Director: Place, there has been no response. Meanwhile, Fiona’s follow-up email to Kim Grieve remains unanswered.

Mr. Chowdhry has voiced growing concern over the council’s increasing lack of responsiveness since residents reluctantly agreed to the proposed remediation works — a significant shift from the council’s earlier stance, which involved more than a year of indecision over possible demolition while properties sat empty. “It feels like, once the council secured agreement on their preferred option, communication and care began to deteriorate,” he said.

A Call for Action

IMAGE: Before the council’s involvement, the home was in excellent condition and well-presented.

On Monday 9th June, Fiona, Mr Chowdhry, and other residents will be meeting again with council officers and the proposed contractor from 2–4pm at the Hawkhill Community Centre. Residents intend to raise these issues formally and seek a clear commitment:

That all damage caused by the council or its agents is acknowledged and fully compensated for.
That future contractors act with care and professionalism, including using protective coverings and proper access procedures.
That the council respects the dignity and rights of homeowners whose properties they have taken control of.

Mr Chowdhry, concluded: "This is not just about Fiona Crichton. It's about the beleaguered displaced homeowners who feel ignored, disrespected, and harmed — not just by RAAC, but by the very authority tasked with supporting them."

A Community at Breaking Point: Protest and Petition

Residents have now reached their limit. They are demanding justice, accountability, and dignity from Clackmannanshire Council.

📍 PROTEST:
Monday 9th June at 12pm
Outside Kilncraigs, Greenside Street, Alloa, FK10 1EB
Join displaced homeowners as they protest the ongoing mismanagement, poor communication, and lack of compensation.

📝 PETITION:
Support the campaign for national recognition and action on RAAC housing:
👉 Sign here

IMAGE: A stable door once stood before the property — it’s hard to believe tenants lived in a home with a broken door frame. Perhaps the council is mistaken?

IMAGE: The flat has clearly seen better days.