New Building Control Rules

Summary

This article discusses the significant changes to UK building regulations that took effect on October 1, 2023. These changes introduce new roles and responsibilities for stakeholders, stricter requirements for higher-risk buildings, and an emphasis on competency throughout the construction process. The goal is to improve building safety and accountability across the construction industry.

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** Main Story**

Okay, let’s talk about the UK building regulations overhaul that went into effect on October 1st, 2023. It was a pretty big day for the construction industry, and frankly, it’s something we all need to be across. So, what’s changed, and what does it mean for us?

Higher-Risk Buildings: Under the Microscope

Probably the biggest shift is the focus on ‘higher-risk buildings,’ or HRBs. I mean, what exactly constitutes a higher risk building anyway? Think residential buildings over 18 meters or seven stories high, then hospitals and care homes that hit the same height threshold. These buildings are now under the watchful eye of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR).

It’s a change from the old system, where local authorities and approved inspectors had oversight. Now, for these HRB projects, developers have to go straight to the BSR for approval. It’s a more rigorous process, involving a ‘gateway system’ at different project stages: planning, design, construction and eventually occupation. The BSR uses Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs) to really dig into things, making sure safety is the top priority right from the start. It’s all about being proactive, which, let’s be honest, is what we should’ve been doing all along.

What About Ongoing Projects? Transitional Provisions.

Now, what happens if you had a project already in motion before October 1st? Well, there are ‘transitional provisions’ in place. These projects might be able to continue under the old building control arrangements, but there are a few caveats.

Basically, you had to have an initial notice accepted by the local authority, or full plans deposited before October 1st. Plus, and this is important, work had to have commenced before April 6th, 2024. How do you prove that? Well, for new HRBs, it’s the pouring of concrete for foundations or piling. For existing HRBs, it’s the start of the actual renovation or construction work. If you missed those deadlines, you’re likely going to have to comply with the new regulations, whether you like it or not.

New Roles, More Responsibility: It’s On You, Dutyholders

The updated regulations also introduce new roles and responsibilities for pretty much everyone involved in a construction project. I’m talking about clients, principal designers, contractors – the whole crew. The idea is to boost accountability and collaboration. For example, the client, who is now explicitly defined in the regulations, has a bigger role in planning, managing, and monitoring the project’s compliance. And, frankly, that makes sense, doesn’t it? The client is ultimately responsible, after all.

Competency is King (and Queen)

If there’s one word that keeps popping up in these changes, it’s ‘competency’. Basically, everyone involved needs to be able to prove they have the skills, knowledge, experience, and, yes, even the right attitude to do their job properly. And it’s not just the practitioners; clients also have a responsibility to make sure they’re hiring competent people and organizations. This focus on competency aims to raise standards across the board and create a culture of safety. Think about it: how many times have you heard stories about projects gone wrong because someone wasn’t qualified? It’s time to put an end to that.

The Application Process: Streamlined, Hopefully

The application process itself has had a makeover. Now, applicants need to provide more detailed information upfront. That means contact details for all the dutyholders and comprehensive project information. The goal is to streamline the process and ensure transparency from day one. Less back-and-forth, fewer delays, and hopefully, fewer headaches for everyone involved. It’s a good thing, really, less time chasing people for paperwork and more time building stuff.

Building Control Approval: Use It or Lose It

Here’s another thing to keep in mind: building control approval now automatically lapses after three years if work hasn’t commenced. That said, ‘commencement’ has a new definition. Now, for buildings and extensions, it means the completion of foundations and the lowest floor structure. For other projects, it’s defined as completing 15% of the overall work. Basically, the authorities are trying to stop projects from languishing indefinitely. So, if you’ve got an approval, get moving!

Enforcement Gets Serious

And finally, the 2022 Building Safety Act strengthens enforcement measures. Local authorities and the BSR now have the power to issue compliance and stop notices, demanding remedial action within specified timeframes. This is a big deal, because it means the authorities can crack down on non-compliance and ensure breaches are dealt with swiftly. It’s a strong deterrent, which is exactly what we need.

Ultimately, the 2023 changes to UK building regulations are a significant step towards a safer and more accountable construction industry. While they might present some challenges in the short term, especially as we all get used to the new processes and requirements, they’re undoubtedly a move in the right direction. And that’s something we can all agree on. These regulations remain in effect as of April 24, 2025, but keep an eye out for potential future changes.