Progress report May 2026: the construction industry
Published 20 May 2026
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Recommendation 1
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 113.6 | In progress | Government | In principle |
Recommendation
That the government draw together under a single regulator all the functions relating to the construction industry to which we have referred.
What we committed to doing
The single regulator will deliver the functions specified in the report with two exceptions. We do not believe it is appropriate for the single regulator to undertake testing and certification of construction products, or issue certificates of compliance, as this would create a new conflict of interest within the regulator. Instead, we will strengthen oversight of Conformity Assessment Bodies through reforms to the construction products regime.
Implementation will start immediately, beginning with work to support the existing regulatory regime as the foundation to moving towards greater consolidation. We are also publishing a Construction Products Reform Green Paper alongside this response which sets out our proposals for reform of the construction products regulatory regime and will inform the implementation of this recommendation.
We will publish a Regulatory Reform Prospectus and consultation on the design of the single regulator later this year before bringing forward the necessary legislation to establish it later in the Parliament.
We will go further than the Inquiry’s recommendation by consulting on strengthening the investigation of serious building safety incidents. We will examine all options for going further to ensure serious incidents are investigated quickly and transparently, including a standalone organisation to provide an additional point of insight, evidence and challenge.
This recommendation will be complete when
The single construction regulator is established and, in conjunction with industry and other stakeholders, we have created a more coherent regulatory system capable of restoring trust in the building system.
What we have done
In January, we transferred the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) from the Health and Safety Executive establishing it as a new arm’s-length body of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). This is a key step towards implementing the recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry to reduce fragmentation with the formation of a Single Construction Regulator.
During this transition, MHCLG and the BSR have implemented a significant programme of operational changes to improve performance. The BSR initially tested a new operating model on new build applications which resulted in a 28% increase in approvals and a 15-week reduction in average time taken for applications to be approved since June 2025, and are continuing work to apply these gains in performance to speed up decisions for remediation cases in the form of the BSR External Remediation Improvement Plan.
On 17 December 2025, we published the Single Construction Regulator Prospectus: Consultation Document. The prospectus consultation closed on 20 March 2026 and we received 184 responses. We are currently analysing the responses. We will provide further detail on our plans for the single regulator in the government response to the consultation, which we expect to publish by June 2026.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Catherine Adams, Director, Buildings Management and Insight
Recommendation 2
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 113.7 | Complete | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That the definition of a higher-risk building for the purposes of the Building Safety Act be reviewed urgently.
What we committed to doing
The Building Safety Regulator has conducted an initial review of the definition of a higher-risk building. Plans for an ongoing review, which will help strengthen the building system, reassure residents and identify whether the list of buildings which are subject to the enhanced regulatory oversight and requirements of the higher-risk regime should be amended in any way, will be set out in summer 2025.
This recommendation will be complete when
Following the initial review of scope already undertaken by the Building Safety Regulator, this recommendation will be complete when the Building Safety Regulator: publishes the results of their review has identified and knows how best to address any gaps in data/evidence.
What we have done
This recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged.
Recommendation 3
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 113.8 | Complete | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That the government bring responsibility for the functions relating to fire safety currently exercised by MHCLG, the Home Office and the Department for Business and Trade into one department under a single Secretary of State.
What we committed to doing
Fire safety related functions will move from the Home Office to MHCLG. The National Regulator for Construction Products in the Department for Business and Trade already reports to MHCLG’s Secretary of State, and we will continue to look at consolidation in the context of the report’s wider recommendations on institutional reform.
This recommendation will be complete when
- Ministerial responsibilities are transferred to MHCLG (complete).
- Staff transfer to MHCLG (complete).
- Budgets transfer to MHCLG (expected in 2026).
What we have done
This recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged.
Recommendation 4
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 113.9 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That the Secretary of State appoint a Chief Construction Adviser with a sufficient budget and staff to provide advice on all matters affecting the construction industry, including:
- monitoring all aspects of the department’s work relating to Building Regulations and statutory guidance
- providing advice to the Secretary of State on request and
- bringing to the attention of the Secretary of State any matters affecting the Building Regulations and statutory guidance or matters affecting the construction industry more generally of which the government should be aware
What we committed to doing
We will appoint a Chief Construction Adviser to advise the Secretary of State, to monitor the department’s work relating to the Building Regulations, statutory guidance and the construction industry more generally, and to bring industry together and hold it to account to help design and deliver the progress we must make together to realise effective reform and culture change. The Chief Construction Adviser will also provide direct input and convene industry engagement into the design and implementation of the single regulator.
This recommendation will be complete when
The permanent Chief Construction Adviser is in post and, through regular engagement with stakeholders, they are able to drive transformative change across the sector and restore trust.
What we have done
The recruitment process to appoint a Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser is currently underway following the launch of the recruitment campaign on 11 March 2026. We anticipate a successful candidate being appointed by the end of 2026. While the recruitment process is underway, we continue detailed work to refine the role’s responsibilities in preparation for a successful candidate to take up the position.
In the meantime, the interim Chief Construction Adviser has continued with her work advising officials and ministers. She issued a public statement on 25 February 2026 setting out her priorities and planned next steps in the role. She met with the Building Safety Regulator Residents Panel on 17 March to hear the perspective of residents on building safety and regulatory reform.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Catherine Adams, Director, Buildings Management and Insight
Recommendations 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11 and 12
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 113.11 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 6 | 113.12 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 7 | 113.13 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 8 | 113.13 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 9 | 113.14 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 11 | 113.17 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 12 | 113.18 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendations
5: That the statutory guidance generally, and Approved Document B in particular, be reviewed accordingly and a revised version published as soon as possible.
6: That a revised version of the guidance contain a clear warning in each section that the legal requirements are contained in the Building Regulations and that compliance with the guidance will not necessarily result in compliance with them.
7: New materials and methods of construction and the practice of overcladding existing buildings make the existence of effective compartmentation a questionable assumption and we recommend that it be reconsidered when Approved Document B is revised.
8: Calculating the likely rate of fire spread and the time required for evacuation, including the evacuation of those with physical or mental impairments, are matters for a qualified fire engineer. We do not think that it would be helpful to attempt to include in Approved Document B an indication of what would be acceptable because each building is different, but we recommend that the guidance draw attention to the need to make a calculation of that kind.
9: That, as far as possible, membership of bodies advising on changes to the statutory guidance should include representatives of the academic community as well as those with practical experience of the industry (including fire engineers) chosen for their experience and skill and should extend beyond those who have served on similar bodies in the past.
11: Assessing whether an external wall can support a particular evacuation strategy is difficult because the necessary information is not always available. We therefore recommend that steps be taken in conjunction with the professional and academic community to develop new test methods that will provide the information needed for such assessments to be carried out reliably
12: BS 9414 should be approached with caution and we recommend that the government make it clear that it should not be used as a substitute for an assessment by a suitably qualified fire engineer.
What we committed to doing
5: The Building Safety Regulator is undertaking a review of how statutory guidance, currently offered in the form of Approved Documents, might best be structured, updated and presented in order to provide accurate, up to date and coherent guidance to support designers in demonstrating compliance with the Building Regulations. Interim findings will be published by summer 2025 and a full list of recommendations will be published in 2026.
The guidance in Approved Document B has been updated several times since 2017 to make it clearer and to improve fire safety standards. The government has committed to keep Approved Document B under continuous review, and the Building Safety Regulator will consult on further changes in autumn 2025.
6: We will address this through the response to recommendation 5.
7: We will address this through the response to recommendation 5.
8: We will address this recommendation through the ongoing Approved Document B review, led by the Building Safety Regulator. The review and industry engagement will explore ways through which Approved Document B can be updated to provide further guidance on external fire spread, while sufficiently supporting designers in considering fire spread via the external wall.
9: We agree that a diverse range of representatives, including those from academic and professional communities, should be included in membership of bodies advising on changes to statutory guidance.
The Building Safety Act 2022 established the Building Advisory Committee (BAC) which, in turn, is supported by thematic working groups such as the Approved Document B Fire Safety Working Group. These have significant academic and professional representation. Membership and range of expertise available through the BAC will be considered in the review of statutory guidance.
11: We will work with the professional and academic community to address this recommendation through the ongoing Approved Document B review led by the Building Safety Regulator which will consider any necessary changes to the guidance for external walls. Research in this area will inform any future evolution of changes to or introduction of new testing methods. The government will look to the construction sector to demonstrate that the test methods used are effective and give a genuine indication of the likely behaviour of an external wall system in the event of a fire.
12: We will address this through the response to recommendation 5.
These recommendations will be complete when
The final report of the review of how statutory guidance, currently offered in the form of Approved Documents, is completed and published, and the areas of improvement identified have been considered and implemented.
Approved Document B is subject to continuous review, including a consultation on further changes. The guidance will continue to be updated as required thereafter to ensure it keeps pace with knowledge and research, and new materials and products on the market.
What we have done
In March 2026, the Building Safety Regulator launched a public consultation on proposed updates to Approved Document B (Fire Safety). The consultation seeks views on proposed changes to statutory fire safety guidance, including provision of evacuation lifts in residential buildings over 18 metres, fire safety measures in specialised housing, guidance on external walls and balconies, application of guidance when combustible materials are used in structural elements of tall buildings, roof fire safety including placement of photovoltaic panels, fire resistance in car parks, and targeted technical clarifications. This consultation forms part of the government’s commitment to review Approved Document B.
The Building Safety Regulator is continuing its review of how statutory guidance is provided through Approved Documents. This includes looking at how the documents are presented, structured and updated. This work aims to support better understanding of, and compliance with, the Building Regulations.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 10
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 113.15 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That it be made a statutory requirement that a fire safety strategy produced by a registered fire engineer to be submitted with building control applications (at Gateway 2) for the construction or refurbishment of any higher-risk building and for it to be reviewed and re-submitted at the stage of completion (Gateway 3). Such a strategy must take into account the needs of vulnerable people, including the additional time they may require to leave the building or reach a place of safety within it and any additional facilities necessary to ensure their safety.
What we committed to doing
The government accepts this recommendation.
The previous government response stated that a fire safety strategy was already required with building control applications for the construction of and significant work to higher-risk buildings. This is not correct as a fire safety strategy is not a required document to be submitted as part of an application. However, the higher-risk regime does already require extensive information on fire safety, throughout the lifecycle of the building, as part of the gateways and the safety case requirements.
The higher-risk building regime requires substantial information about fire safety through design, construction and occupation. Dutyholders and accountable persons must also set out clear plans around evacuation in case of emergency. This information is submitted to the Building Safety Regulator.
The government will review current requirements and consider whether it addresses all aspects of the recommendation. The Building Safety Regulator will also review and consider whether changes to current guidance about the higher-risk regime are needed.
The registration of the fire engineering profession is addressed in the response to recommendation 15.
This recommendation will be complete when
We have completed a review of how the fire safety strategy already included in the higher-risk regime requirements could go further (in progress).
What we have done
A fire safety strategy (also known as a fire strategy) is widely used in industry to set out the fire safety objectives and assumptions for a building. A fire safety strategy is used throughout the building lifecycle from design to occupation.
There is no agreed definition of a fire safety strategy. The Fire Engineers Advisory Panel’s Authoritative Statement, as part of the delivery of recommendation 17, provides a view on what fire safety strategies should include, including that it must take into account the needs of vulnerable people. We are working with industry and regulatory partners to understand what should be included in a fire safety strategy and how this aligns with the current fire safety requirements for higher-risk buildings. We are also considering how any change would work in practice and reviewing evidence base to support any changes. As part of this work, we are looking at ensuring any changes would be proportionate and will balance safety, proportionality and delivery considerations.
Separately, requiring the fire safety strategy to be produced by a fire engineer is dependent on progress on recommendations 15 to 18, which aim to increase fire engineering capacity.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 13
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | 113.22 | In progress | Government | In principle |
Recommendation
That the construction regulator should be responsible for assessing the conformity of construction products with the requirements of legislation, statutory guidance and industry standards and issuing certificates as appropriate. We should expect such certificates to become pre-eminent in the market.
What we committed to doing
We published a Construction Products Reform Green Paper alongside the response to the Inquiry.
The green paper proposed extensive measures for system-wide reform. This includes far-reaching proposals for reforming conformity assessment bodies, including that they must obtain a licence from the national regulator, and be subject to a statutory code.
Proposed reforms would place obligations on conformity assessment bodies to act transparently and independent from commercial interests. They would also strengthen the oversight role of the UK Accreditation Service (UKAS), and grant powers for the national regulator to oversee the entire conformity assessment process, including enforcement against bad actors.
Following this consultation, which closed on 21 May 2025, we will set out the government’s initial response and our next steps for long term reform.
This recommendation will be complete when
We develop a robust approach for assessing the conformity of construction products and the oversight of these processes. This will include legislation, statutory guidance and industry standards.
Clear and honest information about products is provided to support designers, specifiers and installers.
The above objectives will be updated as necessary to reflect the Construction Products Reform White Paper.
What we have done
In February 2026, the government published the Construction Products Reform White Paper. The white paper sets out the government’s response to the green paper (published in February 2025) and next steps for long term system-wide reform. The white paper consultation closes on 20 May 2026.
Within the Construction Products Reform Green Paper, we recognised the Inquiry’s clear diagnosis of the key failings in relation to conformity assessment. The white paper sets out the reforms that we will take forward to address the three inter-related issues: the lack of a regime that operates in the public interest; the lack of public sector testing capacity; and the lack of overall regulatory oversight of all Conformity Assessment Bodies.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 14
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | 113.23 | In progress | Government | In principle |
Recommendation
- that copies of all test results supporting any certificate issued by the construction regulator be included in the certificate
- that manufacturers be required to provide the construction regulator with the full testing history of the product or material to which the certificate relates and inform the regulator of any material circumstances that may affect its performance
- manufacturers be required by law to provide on request copies of all test results that support claims about fire performance made for their products
What we committed to doing
Any claims made about a product’s performance, including statements about its suitability for use in certain situations, must be clear, honest and evidenced. Test results relied on when placing a product on the market should be accessible and free of charge to those selecting and using the product. Further, the national regulator must have powers to mandate disclosure of any information relating to the testing process that it considers necessary to assure itself that a product complies with the law.
We published a Construction Products Reform Green Paper alongside the response to the Inquiry that proposes extensive measures for system-wide reform, including measures to address product testing and conformity assessment.
This recommendation will be complete when
Any claims made about a product’s performance can be evidenced.
The regulator has sufficient powers to mandate disclosure of any information relating to the testing process that it considers necessary to assure itself that a product complies with the law.
The above objectives will be updated as necessary to reflect the outcome of the consultation.
What we have done
In February 2026, the government published the Construction Products Reform White Paper. The white paper sets out the government’s response to the green paper (published in February 2025) and next steps for long term system-wide reform. The white paper consultation closes on 20 May 2026.
The white paper reaffirms the government’s commitment to addressing the failings exposed by the Inquiry concerning test information provision, and confirms measures which will ensure: claims made about a product’s performance are clear, honest, and evidenced; that those selecting and using products have access to the information they need to make informed choices; and that the regulator has powers to mandate disclosure of any information relating to the testing process that it deems necessary.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendations 15, 16, 17 and 18
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | 113.25 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 16 | 113.25 | In progress | Government | In full |
| 17 | 113.27 | Complete | Government | In full |
| 18 | 113.28 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendations
15: That the profession of fire engineer be recognised and protected by law and that an independent body be established to regulate the profession, define the standards required for membership, maintain a register of members and regulate their conduct.
16: That the government take urgent steps to increase the number of places on high-quality master’s level courses in fire engineering accredited by the professional regulator.
17: That the government convene a group of practitioner and academic fire engineers and such other professionals as it thinks fit to produce an authoritative statement of the knowledge and skills to be expected of a competent fire engineer. Such a statement would also enable others in the construction industry to understand better the nature and importance of a fire engineer’s work.
18: That the government, working in collaboration with industry and professional bodies, encourage the development of courses in the principles of fire engineering for construction professionals and members of the fire and rescue services as part of their continuing professional development.
What we committed to doing
15: We recognise the importance of fire engineers in ensuring life safety and will consider how to most effectively protect and regulate the profession.
16: We recognise the value that more masters level courses in fire engineering could bring and will consider how to most effectively increase their number and take-up.
17: We will convene a panel of academics and industry experts to consider what should be expected of a competent fire engineer. The panel will also support and advise on the implementation of other recommendations in respect of fire engineers.
18: We recognise the importance that the principles of fire engineering can have for these professions and others. We will work with industry and professional bodies to consider how best to encourage the development of courses.
These recommendations will be complete when
15: When we have established the mechanism through which the profession will be regulated and overseen. We expect initial principles and next steps to be clarified as we engage the panel up to the autumn.
16: We are considering how to most effectively increase the number and take-up of masters level courses in fire engineering. This recommendation will be complete when we set out the steps taken to increase take-up of courses.
18: When we confirm with industry and professional bodies how to encourage the development of courses, and such development is implemented.
What we have done
In December 2025 we completed recommendation 17 with the publication of the authoritative statement on the expected skills and knowledge of a competent fire engineer, and an accompanying next steps statement setting out the Department’s planned approach to recommendations 15, 16 and 18.
In March 2025, we announced the availability of £15 million which will be used to take forward the plans set out in this statement. This includes consideration of support for the development of courses in fire engineering, providing bursaries, and supporting research and academic capacity. A successful regulatory system depends on a strong and sustainable pipeline of professionals, and we expect that this funding will make a significant contribution to achieving that aim.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 19
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | 113.30 | In progress | Architects Registration Board (ARB) and Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) | In full |
Recommendation
We recognise that both the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) have taken steps since the Grenfell Tower fire to improve the education and training of architects. We recommend that they should review the changes already made to ensure they are sufficient in the light of our findings.
What we committed to doing
The Inquiry’s report notes that both the regulator, the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and the professional body, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), have taken steps since the tragedy to improve the education and training of architects. Both organisations have committed to reviewing the changes already made to ensure they are sufficient in the light of the Inquiry’s findings.
We welcome the steps ARB and RIBA have already taken, and we will continue to support them to make further changes if deemed necessary.
This recommendation will be complete when
The Architects Registration Board (ARB) has already reviewed the changes they have made to the education and training of architects since the fire. We will consider this recommendation complete when the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) completes their review of the changes they have made and confirms they are sufficient, in light of the full findings of the Inquiry.
What we have done
Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) continues to build on reforms it has already delivered to architectural education, professional standards and competence, such as the new Education and Professional Development Framework published last year. This work maintains a focus on health and life safety, and ethical practice.
Since the February Annual Report, outstanding workstreams in response to the Inquiry’s recommendation remain on track to conclude in 2026. As part of this, RIBA has now completed a review of their Net Zero Carbon course with updates currently being implemented.
Recommendation 20
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | 113.31 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That it be made a statutory requirement that an application for building control approval in relation to the construction or refurbishment of a higher-risk building (Gateway 2) be supported by a statement from a senior manager of the principal designer under the Building Safety Act 2022 that all reasonable steps have been taken to ensure that on completion the building as designed will be as safe as is required by the Building Regulations.
What we committed to doing
We intend to make it a statutory requirement to include such a statement with building control approval applications requiring the principal designer to confirm they have complied with their existing duties. This includes all reasonable steps being taken to ensure the design complies with relevant requirements in building regulations.
We will consider whether this requirement should apply to all building control routes, not just higher-risk buildings, in line with the requirements of dutyholders under the Building Safety Act 2022.
This recommendation will be complete when
We have concluded a public consultation on this proposal.
We have clearly communicated the intention of the recommendation to the construction and insurance industries.
What we have done
The government has been working with the Building Safety Regulator to improve the effectiveness of the current higher risk regime. In particular, the focus has been to support the operation of the current gateway process to ensure that applications are processed in a timely manner.
Since the February Annual Report, the government has engaged with stakeholders and industry representatives to understand how the recommendation could work in practice. The government has published a call for evidence on the building professions strategy alongside this progress report. The call for evidence invites views on a number of different areas, including the current dutyholder duties in higher-risk buildings. We are inviting views from stakeholders on improve accountability within dutyholder organisations.
We recognise that the sector has faced many changes recently and understand the need for any changes to be proportionate. Therefore, we are considering a range of options for strengthening the accountability of dutyholders and clarifying dutyholder roles.
The government has paused work on a voluntary scheme to focus on the call for evidence on the building professions, trades and occupations.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 21
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | 113.33 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That a licensing scheme operated by the construction regulator be introduced for principal contractors wishing to undertake the construction or refurbishment of higher-risk buildings and that it be a legal requirement that any application for building control approval for the construction or refurbishment of a higher-risk building (Gateway 2) be supported by a personal undertaking from a director or senior manager of the principal contractor to take all reasonable care to ensure that on completion and handover the building is as safe as is required by the Building Regulations.
What we committed to doing
We will review the impact of the new dutyholder regime in relation to higher-risk buildings, working with the sector to determine how we can go further, including introducing a licensing scheme for principal contractors where a licence may be granted on the basis of criteria aligned with the dutyholder requirements and can be withdrawn for failure to achieve compliance with the regulations.
This recommendation will be complete when
The review of the dutyholder regime is complete and we have a plan to introduce licensing.
What we have done
The government is progressing work to develop this recommendation, including a licensing scheme for principal contractors carrying out construction or refurbishment work on higher-risk buildings. Ongoing work includes a review of the dutyholder regime, to be published in late 2026. This will supplement wider engagement with the sector, such as the newly published call for evidence. The call for evidence invites views on the wider building professions strategy, which will inform future policy development, including proposals on the licensing of principal contractors.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendations 22 and 23
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | 113.37 | Complete | Government | In full |
| 23 | 113.38 | Complete | Government | In full |
Recommendations
22: That the government appoint an independent panel to consider whether it is in the public interest for building control functions to be performed by those who have a commercial interest in the process.
23: We recommend that the same panel consider whether all building control functions should be performed by a national authority.
What we committed to doing
An independent panel will be established to review the building control sector and will recommend which bodies should carry out certain functions, as well as whether all building control functions should be performed by a national authority.
These recommendations will be complete when
The panel have presented their review to government. The timescales for potential reforms to building control will depend upon the government’s response to the panel’s recommendations and whether legislation is required to deliver any that are accepted.
What we have done
As part of the government’s response to the Inquiry’s report, we said that we would work with the building control sectors to bring financial sustainability for local authority services. The government consulted on reforms to the regulations for charges for Local Authority Building Control services between 14 November 2025 and 25 January 2026. The responses are being analysed currently, with a view to the revised regulations coming into effect during 2026.
The panel has finalised their report, which was submitted to government in March 2026. Government has considered the panel’s report and recommendations and is publishing both the report and formal government response together, alongside this Grenfell Tower Inquiry Progress Update. Therefore, these recommendations are now complete and have been formally discharged.
Recommendation 24
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 113.39 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
We have referred to the Cladding Materials Library set up by the University of Queensland, which could form the basis of a valuable source of information for designers of buildings in general. We recommend that the construction regulator sponsor the development of a similar library, perhaps as part of a joint project with the University of Queensland, to provide a continuing resource for designers.
What we committed to doing
We accept the premise of better access to information, resources and test results through a digitally based library. In line with this we are considering options to best support access to data from tests on products and materials and broader fire safety and performance information as part of wider construction product reforms.
This recommendation will be complete when
A library, or equivalent, provides a platform through which users can get clear, honest and up to date information about construction products and their safe use.
What we have done
In February 2026, the government published the Construction Products Reform White Paper. The white paper sets out the government’s response to the green paper (published in February 2025) and next steps for long term system-wide reform. The white paper consultation closes on 20 May 2026.
Detailed review of responses to the Construction Products Reform Green Paper and subsequent analysis allowed us to develop use cases, and identify benefits and barriers to delivering a database-type “library” as proposed in the green paper. Further digital discovery, planned for this year, will develop our approach to the provision of digital services by government that could support the aim of improving users’ access to clear, honest and up-to-date product information. As set out in the white paper, we are also continuing to develop regulatory and non-regulatory measures to ensure construction products are accompanied by clear and accessible information.
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Kate O’Neill, Director, Buildings Design and Construction
Recommendation 25
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | 113.40 | Complete | Government | In principle |
Recommendation
That it be made a legal requirement for the government to maintain a publicly accessible record of recommendations made by select committees, coroners and public inquiries together with a description of the steps taken in response. If the government decides not to accept a recommendation, it should record its reasons for doing so. Scrutiny of its actions should be a matter for Parliament, to which it should be required to report annually.
What we committed to doing
We will establish a record on GOV.UK of all recommendations made by public inquiries since 2024, and will consider making this an enduring legal requirement. The government agrees that scrutiny of its actions is a matter for Parliament, and ministers will commit to updating Parliament on progress for implementing inquiry recommendations. The government notes the recommendation of the House of Lords Statutory Inquiries Committee to establish a new committee of Parliament to improve scrutiny of government’s response to inquiry recommendations. The judiciary already maintains a publicly accessible record of Prevention of Future Deaths reports made by coroners, and the government is working with the Chief Coroner to improve their transparency and availability, as well as to improve accountability for responses to them.
This recommendation will be complete when
The publicly accessible record of inquiry recommendations is published on GOV.UK. The record will be regularly updated and will capture future inquiry recommendations and implementation progress.
What we have done
This recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged.
Recommendation 26
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | 113.41 | In progress | Government | In full |
Recommendation
That the government establish a system of mandatory accreditation to certify the competence of fire risk assessors by setting standards for qualification and continuing professional development and such other measures as may be considered necessary or desirable. We think it necessary for an accreditation system to be mandatory in order to ensure the competence of all those who offer their services as fire risk assessors.
What we committed to doing
We will legislate to make it a mandatory requirement for fire risk assessors to have the competence to perform this critical role independently verified by a UKAS-accredited Certification Body.
This recommendation will be complete when
Legislation puts fire risk assessors on a more professional footing, a common standard for competence is set and a clear pathway into the profession created.
With a robust certification system and commissioning process that requires competence to be verified, we will ensure that only those who are competent can offer their services as fire risk assessors.
What we have done
The government launched a consultation on 26 March as part of its commitment to introduce mandatory certification for fire risk assessors. The consultation will run for 12 weeks, closing on 18 June.
The consultation is looking at strengthening standards, ensuring those who conduct fire risk assessments have the proper competencies and capabilities to do so.
The consultation seeks views on proposals relating to:
-
defining the role of fire risk assessors and their protected assistance duties
-
considering the Responsible Person’s ability to conduct their own assessments
-
developing a competency framework and standards, with robust methods of verifying competence
-
establishing clear career pathways, through proposals for apprenticeships and a proficient workers scheme
-
providing appropriate regulatory powers and ensuring effective implementation of measures
Responsible department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Responsible person
Peter Lee, Director, Fire Policy
Recommendation 27
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27 | 113.43 | Complete | Government | In full |
Recommendation
We are not in a position to determine whether greater standardisation of the fire control switches and keys is required. We therefore recommend that the government seeks urgent advice from the Building Safety Regulator and the National Fire Chiefs Council on the nature and scale of the problem and the appropriate response to it.
What we committed to doing
The National Fire Chiefs Council are reviewing the guidance for the provision of lift fire control switches with the Building Safety Regulator to support a view on standardisation in buildings. They are also surveying fire and rescue services to establish how lift keys, and the type of key, are distributed to firefighters.
This recommendation will be complete when
Advice is submitted by the NFCC to Government on what measures are needed to ensure guidance and standards for lift keys are appropriate, and to ensure greater standardisation across the lift industry.
What we have done
This recommendation is now complete. All actions have been delivered. Since the February Annual Report, learning materials have been updated in line with the changes to national guidance.
This recommendation is now complete and has been fully discharged.
Recommendation 28
| Recommendation number | Inquiry reference | Status | Responsibility | Accepted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 | 113.44 | Complete | Government | In principle |
Recommendation
That every gas transporter be required by law to check the accessibility of each such valve on its system at least once every three years and to report the results of that inspection to the Health and Safety Executive as part of its gas safety case review.
What we committed to doing
We agree with the Inquiry’s findings that accessibility and functionality of such valves is key to ensuring health and safety by stopping gas supplies in an emergency. Whilst inspections every three years may be appropriate, there may be other situations where inspections should be more frequent or where a longer interval is suitable.
To inform this, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is engaging with key stakeholders to fully map out and understand:
- current system integrity approaches, noting changes to operator’s arrangements since the Grenfell tragedy
- the interrelationships between gas network operators, building owners, accountable persons and landowners to understand the challenges encountered when issues with pipeline isolation valves are identified and routes to resolution
Using this evidential research, HSE will develop initial options by March 2025, with a proposed timetable for taking forward a preferred option.
This recommendation will be complete when
This recommendation will be complete when a broader awareness of the purpose and importance of pipeline isolation valves have been communicated to key audiences.
What we have done
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requested data from the network operators to establish a clear baseline of Pipeline Isolation Valve (PIV) access and existing barriers, which takes account of the risk-based inspection approach and processes they have adopted since the Grenfell tragedy. This data was received in December 2025, and analysis was completed by the HSE in February 2026. Following this, HSE initiated targeted stakeholder engagement with network operators, highlighting trends identified from the analysis.
HSE will maintain engagement with network operators to ensure that PIV access issues continue to be addressed effectively.
In accordance with the update and completion criteria, this recommendation can now be closed and is formally discharged.