Building Safety Regulator updates approach to higher-risk building assessments

On 9 July 2026, the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) announced that it will introduce an updated approach to assessing higher-risk buildings, including changes to how it issues building assessment certificates (BACs).

The proposed changes are intended to offer greater support for duty holders while maintaining high building safety standards. The revised approach is designed to be more targeted and proportionate, while offering additional support to resident-led principal accountable persons (PAPs).

The new approach has been developed in response to stakeholder feedback, including PAPs and financial institutions. This demonstrates how constructive dialogue and cooperation between industry, building owners, residents and regulators can lead to practical improvements that support compliance while maintaining robust safety standards. It also highlights the importance of continued engagement across the sector to ensure building safety requirements remain effective and achievable.

The changes also address the implementation of requirements for occupied higher-risk buildings (HRBs) introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022.

For electrical contractors, the responsibility to manage building safety risks remain unchanged. Duty holders must continue to demonstrate compliance with their legal obligations, supported by evidence and safety management arrangements. With the highest levels of certification and competence in their areas of expertise, Electrical Contractors' Association (ECA) Members are well placed to support duty holders in meeting these requirements.

It is important that ECA Members are aware of these changes as they will continue to play a vital role in delivering compliant electrical installations, inspection and testing services, fire safety systems and the evidence needed by building owners and managers need to demonstrate compliance.Learn more on the GOV.UK website.

This article was originally published on the ECA website on 15 July 2026.

Access ECA resources to support you with your responsibilities within the Building Safety Act 2022 here: Building Safety

--ECA

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• The Higher-Risk Buildings (Description and Supplementary Provisions) Regulations 2023.
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