Perhaps We’re Asking the Wrong Question About the Building Safety Regulator
For the last two years, discussions around the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) have largely centred on delays, frustrations and whether the system is “working”.
While these concerns are understandable, perhaps we’re asking the wrong question.
Instead of focusing solely on current challenges, it may be more useful to ask:
Is the system improving?
Recent industry updates suggest that there are positive signs. More Gateway 2 decisions are being made, legacy applications are reducing, approval rates are improving, and new processes are being introduced to help manage complex applications more effectively.
This doesn’t mean the challenges have disappeared. However, it does indicate that both the regulator and the industry are adapting, learning and becoming more efficient.
A Significant Change for the Industry
The Building Safety Act introduced the most significant changes to building regulation in a generation.
With any major regulatory reform, there will inevitably be a period of adjustment. Developers, Principal Designers, Principal Contractors, Building Control professionals and the regulator itself have all had to navigate new responsibilities, new expectations and new ways of working.
Expecting a flawless transition was never realistic.
What we are starting to see, however, is a system becoming more mature.
Signs of Progress
As the industry gains experience, there is a growing understanding of what constitutes a robust application and what information is required to support regulatory approval.
We’re also seeing:
- Greater clarity around dutyholder roles and responsibilities
- Improved information management and document control
- Better coordination between project teams
- Increased focus on demonstrating compliance and managing risk effectively
Perhaps most importantly, the conversation is beginning to change.
Rather than asking:
“How quickly can we secure approval?”
More organisations are asking:
“How can we demonstrate compliance and manage building safety risks effectively?”
That shift in mindset is encouraging.
Safety and Growth Can Coexist
There is sometimes a perception that regulation and development are competing priorities.
In reality, the two are closely linked.
Projects that are well planned, well coordinated and supported by clear information are not only safer, they are typically more predictable and better managed throughout their lifecycle.
Strong building safety practices should not be viewed as a barrier to progress. Instead, they can provide the foundation for more informed decision-making, reduced uncertainty and improved project outcomes.
Looking Ahead
There is still work to do, and there will continue to be challenges as the regulatory landscape evolves.
However, the narrative may be starting to shift.
Not from criticism to complacency, but from frustration to continuous improvement.
That is where meaningful cultural change begins.
As the industry continues to adapt, it will be interesting to see whether others are noticing the same improvements in application quality, project collaboration and understanding of the dutyholder regime.
Need Support Navigating Building Safety Requirements?
Whether you’re acting as a client, developer, architect or contractor, understanding your duties and ensuring the right information is in place from the outset is essential.
The Safety Dept provides practical Principal Designer support, compliance advice and project guidance to help teams manage risk, meet their responsibilities and achieve safer project outcomes.
