Understanding the Updated BSR Guidelines for Higher-Risk Buildings, How Harris Can Help
Published: 09/04/2025
On 27 March 2025, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) published updated guidance on the building control approval application process for new and existing higher-risk buildings. This additional guidance targets projects involving buildings that have at least seven storeys or are 18 metres or taller contain two or more residential units, or function as hospitals or care homes. It has been published to better support those involved in applying for building control approval from the Building Safety Regulator.
Key Differences from Earlier Guidelines
Enhanced Approval Process: Unlike the previous building control process handled by local authorities or building control-approved inspectors, the new guidance mandates that all applications for higher-risk buildings now require direct oversight by the BSR. This centralised process ensures consistent regulatory compliance.
Staged Applications: The updated guidance clarifies that for the construction of new higher-risk buildings, including multiple higher-risk buildings with common parts, clients may now submit a ‘staged application’, allowing work to proceed in approved phases rather than waiting for a single, all-encompassing approval.
Expanded Classification: Work on existing buildings is now categorised into Category A or Category B works with specific criteria—such as changes to external dimensions, internal layout, or fire safety measures. Previous guidance did not clearly define these categories, leading to inconsistencies in applications and compliance.
Emergency Repairs: While emergency repairs can still be carried out without prior approval, the new guidelines require prompt notification to the BSR and an application for a ‘regularisation certificate’ once repairs are completed. This contrasts with past practices where some emergency works might have proceeded without stringent pre and post-repair formalities.
Implications of the New Guidelines
Regulatory Consistency: Centralised approval by the BSR will standardise processes and ensure that all higher-risk building projects meet a uniform standard of safety and compliance.
Operational Planning: The possibility of submitting staged applications means that complex or multi-building projects can be managed more flexibly, potentially reducing delays.
Increased Scrutiny and Accountability: Clear categorisation (Category A & B) and specific emergency repair requirements impose tighter controls on project documentation and execution. This necessitates meticulous planning and comprehensive submissions by clients.
Project and Cost Management: Longer assessment periods, up to 12 weeks for new builds and 8 weeks for existing properties, emphasise the need for robust project management and pre-application preparation to avoid expensive delays. However, given the current industry challenges where some projects face waits of up to 40 weeks, there is serious concern over whether these BSR’s assessment times will be met in practice.
Full BSR Building Control Approval Guidelines
How Harris Associates Can Help
Our multi-disciplinary team of chartered surveyors, quantity surveyors, and chartered engineers is experienced in navigating these enhanced BSR guidelines. We offer:
Pre-Application Review & Strategy: We ensure that all required documentation is complete and that detailed technical reports demonstrate compliance with the updated standards.
Management of Staged Applications: Our experts coordinate complex, multi-stage projects, ensuring seamless transitions and prompt regulatory approvals.
Emergency Repair Protocols: We guide clients through the notification process and secure the necessary regularisation certificates promptly.
Ongoing Compliance: By monitoring legislative updates and maintaining comprehensive records, we ensure your project remains compliant throughout its lifecycle.
The new BSR guidelines represent a significant shift toward greater consistency and accountability in higher-risk building projects. Navigating the process requires specialist knowledge and a coordinated approach. Our dedicated team of statutory compliance experts will ensure that your project meets regulatory requirements.
For building owners and managers, collaborating with an experienced consultancy like Harris Associates can streamline the BSR application process, to help safeguard your investments and enable your projects to proceed smoothly under the new guidelines.
Contact us today to discuss how we can support your project and manage the building control application process on your behalf. For further information or to schedule a consultation, please get in touch.