Government Launches National RAAC Survey Programme for Pre-1990 Schools

The Department for Education has announced a fully funded national survey programme covering every school building in England constructed before 1990 that has not yet been assessed for reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC). The programme, backed by a dedicated budget of over 150 million pounds, will run from April 2026 through to March 2028.

Programme Scope

The survey programme covers approximately 3,400 school buildings across England. Each building will receive an initial desktop assessment followed by a physical survey where RAAC risk indicators are identified. Buildings confirmed to contain RAAC will then receive a detailed structural assessment including core sampling and load testing.

The DfE has confirmed that surveys will be carried out by approved structural engineers and specialist roofing surveyors working to a standardised assessment protocol. Results will be published in a national database accessible to local authorities, academy trusts and the public.

What Roofing Contractors Need to Know

RAAC was widely used in roof planks and wall panels in schools, hospitals and public buildings constructed between the 1950s and 1990s. When it deteriorates, the consequences can be serious, including partial or complete structural failure.

The survey programme creates significant opportunities for specialist roofing contractors in three areas:

Survey and assessment work. Companies with experience in structural roof surveys, core sampling and condition reporting should register their interest with the DfE's approved contractor framework. Applications open in April 2026.

Temporary propping and monitoring. Buildings identified as having deteriorating RAAC will need immediate temporary support measures. This work needs to be carried out by contractors experienced in structural propping systems.

Remediation and replacement. The longer term pipeline includes full roof replacement on buildings where RAAC is confirmed and deemed beyond repair. This represents a substantial multi-year workstream for qualified roofing contractors.

Regional Priorities

The programme will prioritise surveys in regions with the highest concentration of pre-1990 school buildings. The North West, Yorkshire and the West Midlands are expected to see the highest volumes of survey work in the first year.

Getting Involved

The DfE is hosting a series of online briefing sessions for contractors interested in joining the approved framework. Details and registration are available on the DfE's Construction Frameworks page. The NFRC is also running dedicated RAAC training courses for roofing surveyors throughout 2026.