Building Safety Update–Jan 2026

Newly released data from the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) on Gateway Two applications, covering the period from 25 November to 22 December 2025, highlights continued progress in addressing the application backlog and the work of the Innovation Unit. The figures, published by the BSR, show that 347 decisions were issued across all application types during this period, bringing the total number of decisions made since 29 September 2025 to 727. 

For applications submitted under the previous operating model, approval rates have risen to 83%, an increase from 73%, with a further 20 decisions reached during the reporting period. Despite this improvement, 40 legacy new-build applications remain undecided, exceeding the BSR’s stated aim to reduce this number to three by the end of 2025. Meanwhile, the Innovation Unit is currently overseeing 102 live new-build applications. Among those applications that have received a decision from the Innovation Unit so far, nearly half (48%) were judged invalid due to incomplete documentation. NFRC advises members to read Build UK’s Gateway Two guidance that outlines the information required for applications relating to both new and existing Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs).  

You may also find further information based on your role in our Building Safety Act support area. 

Separately, the Government has issued new guidance supporting the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations, which are scheduled to take effect on 6 April 2026. The guidance is intended to help Responsible Persons create and put in place Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for all high-rise residential buildings, as well as medium-rise buildings where an evacuation strategy is already in place. 

In addition, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is introducing a quarterly building safety newsletter. The publication will provide updates on legislation, official guidance and progress on remediation, and members will be able to subscribe to receive future editions. 

Finally, the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), which acts as the national regulator for construction products, is seeking specialists to join its Register of Specialists. This register will be used to commission ad-hoc scientific and technical advice to support OPSS activity. Professionals with expertise in areas such as civil and structural engineering, fire science, materials science and related fields are encouraged to apply.