The Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner, has asked the Building Safety Regulator to undertake a fundamental review of how building regulations guidance is produced, updated, and communicated to the construction industry.
In her opening speech during the House of Commons debate on the Grenfell Inquiry Phase 2 report, Angela Rayner announced the review of guidance to the building regulations known as the Approved Documents (ADs).
Two major reports have highlighted the need for change:
- Dame Judith Hackitt’s 2018 Review called the ADs “complex, ambiguous and not user-friendly” and recommended simplifying them as well as making them digital.
- The Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report echoed this sentiment, emphasising the need for continuous review and regular updates to ensure guidance remains relevant and effective.
In April 2023, the responsibility for updating and keeping ADs under review was transferred to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), part of the Health and Safety Executive. BSR is now leading this important review and shall be supported by individuals with expertise in architecture, building control, housebuilding, and digital and technical issues. Feedback will also be gathered from residents, industry professionals, and government departments to ensure the review reflects everyone’s views.
During early 2025, the BSR will establish a review panel, agree its terms of reference, appoint a Chair to lead the activities, and select panel members.
BSR’s Strategic Plan (2023-2026) commits to addressing the long-standing issues with the Approved Documents.
What will the review focus on and achieve?
It will explore how to make the guidance:
- Easier to understand and use.
- Regularly updated to keep up with new technologies and practices.
- More accessible, especially for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs).
The goal is to ensure that everyone who uses the guidance can rely on it to be clear, accurate, and practical.
The result will be safer, higher-quality buildings and greater confidence in the building safety system.
The announcement can be viewed here.