If you possess a structure that poses a higher fire hazard compared to other structures, recent regulations demand that you undertake necessary measures. Let’s delve deeper into the details.
Starting April 6th, 2023, there have been implementations of fresh laws pertaining to buildings with heightened fire risks. These regulations aim to avoid a repeat of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire incident in 2017. Although, as long as your building is managed properly, these regulations should not pose significant difficulties, it is important to familiarise yourself with compliance measures. It is advisable to consult your solicitor to ensure adherence to legal requirements. If you’re located in Haslemere, search for experienced solicitors in Haslemere Surrey.
Now, let’s examine four key aspects you should be aware of regarding the Building Safety Act 2022 and its connection to buildings with a higher level of risk.
1 – Defining a higher-risk building
According to the updated regulations, a building is classified as higher risk if it is 18 metres tall or has seven or more storeys, and contains two or more occupied residential units. Approximately 12,500 buildings in England fall under this category and are subject to the new legislation.
If your building is categorised as having a higher level of risk, the recently enacted legislation mandates the appointment of a Principal Account Person for your property and necessitates its registration with the Building Safety Regulator.
2 – Designating a Principal Account Person
Your Principal Account Person (PAP) serves as the main point of contact between the establishment and the regulatory body. Typically, the PAP is most likely to be the landlord in many instances.
The regulatory authority holds the PAP accountable for:
- The external framework of the building.
- The internal framework of the building.
- Frequently utilised spaces within the structure
The Building Safety Regulator registration process will also fall under the responsibility of the PAP.
3 – Registering your high-risk building
To comply with the regulations, it is essential that your selected Principal Authorised Person (PAP) completes the registration of your high-risk building by September 30, 2023. During this registration process, your PAP will need to furnish the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) with various information regarding your building.
- Address
- Number of rooms
- Height (in metres) of the building
- Number of storeys
Once you have provided your information, the BSR might follow up with additional inquiries. These inquiries may pertain to the materials used for the construction of your building and the fire safety measures implemented.
You will also be required to remit a registration fee of £251 for each building.
4 – Ongoing construction projects
The updated regulations on Building Safety encompass both completed and unfinished buildings that meet specific criteria, even if they have not yet been finalised.
Occupying a building without registering it with the Building Safety Regulator is now considered a criminal act under the recently enacted legislation. Non-compliance with this requirement can result in penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment.
To enroll your recently constructed structure with the BSR, you will be required to provide the date, reference number, and issuing organisation of the building certificate. Similar to higher-risk buildings that already exist, there is a fee of £251.
Accessible assistance available from your attorney
Although these regulations have the noble intention of improving building safety, they can impose additional burdens on individuals. The registration procedure may become intricate, particularly if the BSR’s subsequent inquiries necessitate retrieving information from several years ago. That’s why it is advantageous to have a skilled property solicitor assisting you in navigating through these intricacies.
Your legal representative will assist you in gathering the necessary information and submitting it correctly. They will ensure a smooth registration process for your higher-risk building, allowing you to concentrate on managing your property efficiently.
As the registration deadline draws near, it is advisable to take proactive steps. It is recommended that you consult with your attorney at the earliest opportunity.
