Residents evacuated from Dawson House, a block of flats in Billingham near Stockton, are still uncertain about when they will be able to return to their homes due to ongoing fire safety concerns.

The building was evacuated last Thursday evening following an inspection that revealed a potential issue with smoke not being safely extracted from emergency exits in the event of a fire. Initially, residents were informed they would need to vacate the premises for two to three days while further safety assessments were conducted. However, the housing group Thirteen has since stated it "can't be certain how long" the process will take, acknowledging that "it will not be a quick process."

Both temporary and permanent alternative accommodation have been made available to affected residents.

Matt Forrest, chief executive of Thirteen, said: "It is in the best interests of customers to not be within Dawson House during the evolving ongoing assessments of the building."

"We appreciate this is unsettling for customers and we are doing everything we can to support them to move. To ensure the process is as stress-free and straightforward as possible, Thirteen will cover all moving costs."

Our eNews provides regular insight into industry trends, news headlines, and product and service information. For more articles like this Subscribe to our enews.