Navigating England’s new building safety regime : A comprehensive guide for building surveyors

Abstract

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the regulatory overhaul following the Grenfell Tower fire, which exposed critical flaws in the UK’s building safety framework. The paper introduces the Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA) and its associated legislation, detailing their transformative impact on building safety management in England. Aimed at building surveyors, structural engineer, and related professionals, this paper demystifies the complex regulatory environment and outlines the pivotal roles of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and new dutyholder provisions. The paper explores the key changes introduced by the BSA, including the definition of higher-risk buildings, the establishment of gateway processes, and the introduction of the “golden thread” for maintaining a digital record of safety-critical information throughout a building’s life cycle. It provides practical insights into compliance requirements, enforcement powers, and the expanded responsibilities of clients, designers and contractors. Readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the new regulatory framework, including the roles of the accountable person (AP) and principal accountable person (PAP) in managing safety during building occupation. The paper also highlights reforms to the building control profession, such as the creation of Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) and Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs). Professionals will be equipped with the knowledge to navigate the BSA’s provisions effectively, ensuring compliance, contributing to safer buildings, and supporting a cultural shift prioritising safety and accountability in the built environment.