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Building Safety update

20 July 2020

Proposing MP
Robert Jenrick Reform
Newark
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
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At a Glance

Issue Summary

The statement provides an update on progress towards overhauling the UK's building and fire safety system, particularly focusing on the draft Building Safety Bill.

Action Requested

The Minister has published the draft Building Safety Bill for pre-legislative scrutiny. The bill aims to establish a national building safety regulator within the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) with significant powers to improve safety in higher-risk buildings. It also includes measures to protect leaseholders from unfair costs and strengthen fire safety regulations.

Key Facts

  • The draft Building Safety Bill is published for pre-legislative scrutiny.
  • £16.4 million has been set aside for the HSE to establish the shadow building safety regulator.
  • The new regime will initially apply to multi-occupied residential buildings of 18 metres or more in height or six storeys, whichever is reached first.
  • A new ‘building safety charge’ will give leaseholders transparency on costs incurred in maintaining a safe building.
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