Industry bodies launch drive to push clients on Building Safety Act compliance

A coalition of construction industry organisations has launched a campaign aimed at accelerating client compliance with the Building Safety Act, amid concerns that procurement decisions are still being driven primarily by cost and programme.

The initiative centres on a new Clients’ Guide to the Building Safety Act, produced by the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and backed by eight industry bodies, with support from the Building Safety Regulator’s Industry Competence Committee.

The guidance responds to research published by BESA late last year which suggested many clients remain unaware of, or are choosing to overlook, their legal responsibilities under the Act, which came into force in 2022.

The guide sets out in plain English the statutory duties placed on clients, emphasising their leadership role in delivering safer and more sustainable buildings. It reinforces that the regime applies to all buildings, not only higher-risk or high-rise residential developments.

Jon Vanstone, chair of the Industry Competence Committee, said the guide serves as a timely reminder that clients set the tone for projects through procurement decisions, appointments and allocation of resources.

He said that where duties are taken seriously and supported by competent appointments and informed oversight, the quality and safety of outcomes improve. Conversely, he warned that failures at client level cannot be fully corrected through downstream controls.

The BESA guide defines who legally qualifies as the client and outlines responsibilities across the project lifecycle, including specific requirements for higher-risk buildings. It also addresses common compliance pitfalls and explains potential consequences of failure.

Rachel Davidson, BESA’s director of specialist knowledge, said the document is designed to educate rather than intimidate, helping clients understand what good practice looks like and enabling safer procurement decisions. She added that clearer understanding at client level would reduce project risk and help avoid costly delays and redesigns.

The guidance is also intended to support contractors and consultants in challenging procurement decisions that could compromise safety. Under the Act, contractors are required to refuse to commence work if they believe a client does not understand or accept their responsibilities.