We have published updated guidance on the staged application process for HRB building control approval.
This includes expanding eligibility to single tower projects alongside complex multiple tower developments.
The GOV.UK guidance update details how the definition of "commencement" varies between complex and non-complex buildings. It provides that stage one for single towers must complete foundations and structure of ground floor level.
While developers of multiple tower projects should still contact BSR for advice beforehand, strict rules prohibit starting any work until the relevant stage is approved.
The updates also cover preparing information for applications for staged construction.
You can read our:
Developers of multiple tower projects should still contact BSR for advice beforehand. Strict rules prohibit starting any work until the relevant staged application is approved.
Construction Leadership Council (CLC) guidance
The CLC has also published guidance focused on staged applications and the critical steps between Gateways 2 and 3 for new higher-risk buildings (HRBs).
Developed in partnership with BSR, the update also provides essential advice on maintaining the golden thread of information and ensuring progressive assurance throughout construction.
We have published information which clarifies the criteria BSR uses to validate, approve or reject building control applications for HRBs.
Aimed at applicants, this update will help improve industry’s engagement with the building control approval process. It emphasises submitting detailed documentation is a strict legal requirement.
The page details the Approval with Requirements (AwR) process, allowing BSR to approve designs that demonstrate "substantive compliance" whilst non-critical details can be submitted later.
It also outlines grounds for rejections, including:
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the application clearly demonstrates there will be material non-compliance
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the application has information gaps that mean BSR cannot determine if there will be material non-compliance
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failure to respond to requests for information or resolve the issues raised
Finally, it clarifies BSR’s approach to ‘attached structures’ during the design and construction phase.
Grenfell Tower Inquiry: Government’s third progress report
This sets out the government’s progress on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s Phase 2 recommendations and updates on Phase 1 recommendations.
The Single Construction Regulator prospectus and consultation
This 2025 progress report was published alongside prospectus and consultation. MGCLG are seeking views on government’s proposals for regulatory reform and the development of a single construction regulator. Consultation closes at 11:59pm on 20 March 2026.
Findings of the BSR’s review of the higher-risk building definition
The results of BSR’s initial review of the definition of higher-risk buildings and plans for its ongoing review by the regulator.
Fire engineering authoritative statement and next steps document
MHCLG’s publication of the Authoritative Statement of the Fire Engineers Advisory Panel and a statement of next steps for reform of the fire engineering profession.
From January, Principal Accountable Persons (PAPs) of registered residential higher-risk buildings may be contacted by our new Remediation Enforcement Unit (REU).
The REU aims to understand external fire safety risks in higher-risk buildings and investigate the buildings’ dutyholders where remediation work is not progressing sufficiently.
PAPs may need to show their:
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relevant part of the FRAEW assessment
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any other relevant information
More information to support PAPs will be available in the new year on our website and in future bulletins.
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