The Construction Leadership Council (CLC) has released a new advisory note addressing Building Control applications for higher-risk buildings (HRBs), aiming to streamline the approval process and enhance safety standards across the UK construction industry. Following the release of the updated fire safety standard BS 9991:2024, this initiative comes in response to the evolving regulatory landscape and the industry’s commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of HRBs.
Background: Strengthening Oversight of Higher-Risk Buildings
On October 1, 2023, a pivotal change occurred in the UK’s building safety regime. The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) assumed the role of the Building Control Authority for all HRBs in England. This transition means that developers can no longer select their preferred building control body for new residential buildings exceeding 18 meters or seven storeys, as well as hospitals and care homes meeting the same height criteria. Instead, they must seek building control approval directly from the BSR before commencing any construction work on HRBs.
Challenges in the Approval Process
The implementation of these stringent safety regulations has led to significant challenges within the industry. Developers have reported substantial delays in obtaining approvals, primarily due to understaffing, confusion, and inadequate communication at the BSR. These delays have impacted various construction projects, including vital housing developments, student accommodations, and build-to-rent homes. The collapse of private building control firms, such as AIS, has further exacerbated the situation by redirecting numerous projects to the already overwhelmed BSR.
CLC’s Advisory Note: Enhancing Application Quality
In light of these challenges, the CLC’s advisory note emphasizes the critical importance of submitting high-quality, detailed applications that clearly demonstrate compliance with building regulations. The BSR has observed that many applications, particularly those for smaller refurbishment projects and work on existing buildings, are often incomplete or unclear, rendering them unsuitable for approval. To address this issue, the BSR has outlined key points for applicants to consider:
Comprehensive Documentation: Applications must include detailed information that thoroughly demonstrates how each aspect of the project complies with building regulations. It is insufficient to merely state compliance; applicants must provide clear explanations and evidence supporting their claims.
Competent Professional Advice: Applicants are encouraged to seek guidance from qualified professionals to ensure that their submissions meet the necessary standards and address all regulatory requirements effectively.
Avoiding Pre-Application Advice from BSR: The BSR has clarified that it will not provide pre-application advice on building control applications. Therefore, applicants should rely on competent professionals for such guidance.
By adhering to these recommendations, applicants can facilitate a more efficient approval process, reducing delays and contributing to the timely delivery of construction projects.
Implications for the Construction Industry
The CLC’s advisory note serves as a crucial reminder of the industry’s collective responsibility to uphold safety standards in the design, construction, and management of HRBs. The introduction of the ‘golden thread’ of information—a comprehensive record of building data maintained throughout the building’s lifecycle—is central to this effort. This approach ensures that all stakeholders have access to accurate and up-to-date information, promoting transparency and accountability.
For companies specializing in fire safety solutions, such as Nationwide Fire Sprinklers, the advisory note underscores the importance of integrating robust fire safety measures into building designs from the outset. Collaborating closely with developers, architects, and regulatory bodies is essential to ensure that fire sprinkler systems and other safety features are compliant with the latest regulations and effectively protect occupants.
Conclusion
The CLC’s publication of the advisory note marks a significant step toward enhancing the safety and quality of higher-risk buildings in England. By emphasizing the need for detailed and compliant applications, the construction industry can navigate the regulatory landscape more effectively, ensuring that projects are completed on time and to the highest safety standards. As the industry adapts to these changes, continued collaboration and adherence to best practices will be vital in achieving the shared goal of safer buildings for all.
