Understanding the Building Safety Act 2022, What It Means for Dutyholders and Developers 

The Building Safety Act 2022 represents the most significant reform to building regulation and fire safety in the UK for decades. Introduced in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the legislation aims to create a more robust framework for building safety, placing legal duties on those involved in the design, construction, and management of buildings. 

At Adkins Consultants Ltd, we help developers, contractors, designers, and clients navigate these new responsibilities, ensuring compliance at every stage of the construction process. 

 

What Is the Building Safety Act 2022? 

The Building Safety Act came into law in April 2022, with key provisions phased in between 2023 and 2025. It introduces a new regulatory framework designed to improve safety standards, particularly in higher-risk residential buildings (HRBs), defined as those over 18 metres in height or more than seven storeys. 

However, the Act affects all building projects, not only high-rise schemes. From new builds to refurbishments, the Act places statutory duties on dutyholders, strengthens enforcement powers, and increases accountability across the entire supply chain. 

 

Key Features of the Building Safety Act 

✅ A Stronger Regulatory Regime 

The Act established the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), with the authority to enforce compliance, monitor industry performance, and intervene where safety is at risk. 

✅ Clear Dutyholder Responsibilities 

Dutyholders must meet specific obligations under the new building control regime, including the following roles: 

  • Client, responsible for appointing competent professionals and ensuring building work complies with regulations 
  • Principal Designer and Principal Contractor, legally required to plan, manage, and monitor compliance with building regulations throughout the project 
  • Designers and Contractors, responsible for carrying out work within their competence and in full compliance with relevant regulations 

At Adkins Consultants, we support professionals fulfilling Principal Designer duties, both under CDM 2015 and the Building Safety Act, ensuring all technical and legal standards are met. 

✅ The Golden Thread of Information 

A new requirement for a golden thread of information has been introduced. This involves maintaining a complete, accurate, and up-to-date digital record of the building’s design and construction, accessible throughout the life of the building. This ensures safe management, future maintenance, and refurbishment decisions are based on verified information. 

✅ Gateway Approvals for Higher-Risk Buildings 

Higher-risk residential buildings must now pass through three regulatory Gateways: 

  1. Planning, which requires early-stage fire safety information 
  1. Pre-Construction, where the design must be approved by the Building Safety Regulator 
  1. Completion, which requires full sign-off before occupation 

 

Why the Building Safety Act Matters for All Projects 

Although the Act was developed with high-rise residential buildings in mind, it applies to all projects that fall under building regulations. This includes: 

  • Residential new builds 
  • Conversions and refurbishments 
  • Commercial developments with residential elements 
  • Any regulated construction project requiring building control approval 

Developers, designers, contractors, and clients must all ensure they understand and comply with their legal obligations under the new framework. 

 

Enforcement and Penalties 

The Act introduces stronger enforcement mechanisms. These include: 

  • Substantial fines and the potential for criminal prosecution for non-compliance 
  • An extended time frame for bringing building defect claims, now up to 15 years for new work and 30 years retrospectively 
  • A requirement to report safety concerns throughout the design and construction process 

Failure to comply can result in both individual and corporate liability. 

 

How Adkins Consultants Ltd Can Help 

At Adkins Consultants Ltd, we offer practical support and technical expertise to help you comply with the Building Safety Act. Our services include: 

✅ Acting as or advising the Principal Designer
✅ Ensuring building regulations compliance throughout the project
✅ Preparing and managing the golden thread of information
✅ Structural checks and technical documentation
✅ Supporting clients and developers in fulfilling legal duties
✅ Liaising with the Building Safety Regulator and building control bodies 

We also provide CPD training for teams that need to stay up to date with the evolving safety and compliance landscape. 

 

Need Help Navigating the Building Safety Act? 

Whether you’re leading a new development or managing an existing property, Adkins Consultants Ltd can guide you through the complexities of the Building Safety Act 2022. We ensure you understand your obligations and implement the right processes from the outset. 

 

📞 Contact us today to discuss your project, receive expert guidance on Principal Designer duties, or request support in complying with the latest building safety legislation. 

Let’s build with confidence, safety, and full compliance.