Single construction regulator to “ensure standards across sector”

The proposals follow on from the first recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which was published in September 2024. The Inquiry Panel recommended that Government create a ‘single construction regulator’ to reduce fragmentation and complexity in the way the built environment is regulated.

The new regulator will help to ensure a well-functioning building system, which will support industry to build the homes this country needs. This will mean better outcomes for residents and building users, clarity and certainty for industry and investors and a fairer system that benefits those who prioritise safety and quality.

Samantha Dixon (Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy) said: “The plans set out show how we are learning from the Grenfell Tower tragedy and what we are doing to improve the effectiveness, consistency and efficiency of the construction sector, in addition to what we’re doing to make sure people’s homes are safe and good quality.”

Dixon continued: “The case for reform is strong. One regulator across the entire construction system will be better able to review evidence, identify risks, issues and opportunities and support action with enforcement where it’s necessary.”

Further, Dixon observed: “Alongside the prospectus that we’ve published, we have also launched a consultation which seeks views on the plans from across the construction sector. This will inform final plans, while a full response to the consultation will set out more detail on regulatory reform. This is set to be published in the summer of 2026.”

Starting point for reform

Interim chief construction advisor Thouria Istephan explained: “This prospectus is the starting point for reform, which delivers on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Panel’s call for systemic change. The creation of a single construction regulator will replace a fragmented system with one that prioritises safety, accountability and clarity, integrating the oversight of buildings, products and professions.

It’s about protecting lives, rebuilding trust and fostering a culture wherein responsibility, accountability and quality come first.”

Andy Roe, executive chair of the Building Safety Regulator, commented: “The journey towards a single construction regulator is a decisive and important step forward in strengthening building safety. Over the past few months, we’ve worked hard to speed up the application processes within the Building Safety Regulator for new high-rise residential buildings and we’re already seeing positive changes.”

Roe went on to state: “The Building Safety Regulator’s role will evolve as we move to a new body, and in longer time towards the single construction regulator, through a carefully managed transition. Throughout this process, we will continue our commitment to collaboration and delivering a regulatory system that keeps residents safe, while supporting essential construction.”

The consultation will be open until 20 March 2026. The MHCLG encourages responses from all individuals and organisations interested in the built environment.

This announcement comes as the Government publishes the next quarterly progress report on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. As part of that, the Government has also published the Authoritative Statement of the Fire Engineers Advisory Panel on next steps for reform of the fire engineering profession​ in addition to the results of the Building Safety Regulator’s initial review of the definition of higher-risk buildings and plans for an ongoing review.