Introduction

The Building Safety Act (BSA) has fundamentally reshaped how buildings are designed, delivered and managed across their lifecycle. Emerging in response to the Grenfell tragedy, the Act introduces a more rigorous regulatory framework, including the creation of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), a new three-stage ‘Gateway’ approval system, and the requirement for a ‘Golden Thread’ of information. With these changes has come a greater emphasis on accountability, competence and resident safety, particularly for higher-risk buildings (HRBs). Compliance now must be proved, not assumed. Early planning, collaboration, and strong information management are critical.

However, as the industry transitions from policy to practice, significant challenges are emerging. These include treating the Act as a regulatory overlay rather than a fundamental transformation, progressing without Gateway certainty, assigning responsibility for risks incorrectly across the supply chain, and underestimating the demands of Golden Thread requirements.

In partnership with Perega, Kier Places brought together leading industry experts in a series of Building Safety Act events to share critical insights, and discuss upcoming challenges, ahead of regulatory change. This report is essential reading for anyone responsible for delivering, managing or owning buildings in the new regulatory landscape. Drawing on insights from industry leaders, it explores the critical challenges organisations are facing, highlights emerging best practice, and provides practical guidance to help navigate compliance, reduce risk and prepare for the future of building safety.

In summary

Discussions across both events highlighted that, while the industry continues to navigate the transition from the regulatory framework of the Building Safety Act to its practical application, a clear direction of travel is emerging.A consistent theme was the critical importance of early engagement, collaboration, and rigorous planning, underpinned by clearly defined roles and accountabilities. These factors are increasingly recognised as essential to achieving compliant, efficient and successful project outcomes under the new regime.The events reinforced that, while the BSA introduces new complexities, it also presents a significant opportunity to raise standards, strengthen cross-sector collaboration and, ultimately, deliver safer, higher-quality buildings for the long-term.

This report will explore key themes, including:

Navigating the Gateways:
Avoiding delays
Bringing residents on the journey
How the Building Safety Act has created a behavioural shift

The regime is changing expectations. It's no longer enough to be compliant - you have to prove it.

David Aitchison
Head of Building Control Consultancy

The Building Safety Act represents a fundamental shift for our industry – it’s not just a new regulation, it’s a new way of working. It places accountability, transparency and collaboration at the heart of how we design, deliver and manage buildings, with a critical focus on proving compliance throughout the full lifecycle.

“In partnership with Perega, this event brought together leading industry experts to share critical insights and discuss key challenges set out by the regulatory change ahead.”

Clive Pople, Pre-construction Director
Kier Places