England remediation plan targets faster higher-risk building safety works

by

Remediation plan targets faster decisions

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has introduced an external remediation improvement plan to reduce delays to higher-risk building safety works across England.

BSR said the plan includes a dedicated external remediation multidisciplinary team, lower average caseloads for regulatory leads and wider use of approval with requirements where appropriate.

The regulator said it will recruit more staff to reduce individual caseloads from an average of 25 to around 10.

The new multidisciplinary team will be supported by external remediation account managers handling applicant communications and portfolio concerns.

BSR also plans to pilot the use of building control professionals from different classes to support case officers and regulatory leads.

A new consistency process will be introduced to resolve technical disputes more quickly.

The regulator is also moving towards more direct engagement with applicants, including initial meetings for more complex projects.

BSR said it will publish a clear external remediation prioritisation structure and is working on digital visibility changes so applicants can track progress after submission.

Older cases and application quality

BSR said around 40% of ongoing external remediation applications rely on government funding, and many older complex cases are taking longer to reach decisions.

The regulator said internal resource constraints and a high volume of older non-compliant industry submissions are driving the current caseload.

Incomplete applications are delaying decisions where required technical information or legal documentation is missing.

Examples include limited evidence of fire-resistant properties for replacement cladding and related materials, missing structural loading calculations and incomplete demonstration of thermal performance.

Delays are also linked to incomplete design information, unsupported non-worsening claims and poorly organised documents.

Ambiguity over retained combustibles is also described as a frequent cause of failure.

BSR said it has published initial guidance for external remediation work on existing higher-risk buildings and will issue more feedback, resources and support in the coming months.

The regulator is also planning better data sharing with organisations managing government funds, including Homes England.

By December 2026, BSR is aiming to reduce average decision times for remediation applications to less than 12 weeks and achieve approval rates above 65%.

Lord Roe, BSR Board Chair, said: “We continue to accelerate our decision-making for new build applications, speeding up approvals for new build and external remediation projects and increasing the supply of safe new and existing homes through the recent changes we have made to our processes.

“We recognise current determination times for remediation cases are falling short of statutory targets.

“This plan represents a targeted and achievable package of measures to reset the system and clear older legacy remediation cases.

“By doing so and then focussing on more recent applications, we can ensure high-rise residents see essential safety improvements they deserve without unnecessary or further delays.”

Charlie Pugsley, Acting CEO of BSR, added: “As we enter an important new chapter as a standalone regulator, our focus is on strengthening safety, rebuilding trust and supportively collaborating with industry.

“Collectively these measures will ensure current and future remediation applications can proceed as smoothly and quickly as possible.

“By launching a dedicated multidisciplinary team and introducing account managers, we are dramatically increasing our capacity to make faster decisions.

“Speed cannot come at the cost of safety.

“We will also publish further specific guidance and support to help industry submit higher-quality applications, ensuring thousands of residents can feel safe, and are safe in their high-rise homes.”

BSR update shows 108 new build decisions over 12 weeks to 25 February

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

BSR Gateway 2 update and reporting changes

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has set out planned changes to how it reports progress on Gateway 2 applications, alongside updated volumes for decisions, invalidations and live cases in the 12-week rolling period to 25 February 2026.

The BSR said it has changed how it represents application progress by removing invalid applications from progress percentages, describing invalid applications as those lacking basic critical safety information and normally invalidated within around one week.

Percentages of withdrawn, rejections and approvals are now shown as a proportion of the total number of applications that passed validation.

Closed applications across all categories totalled 639 in the past 12 weeks, including 273 invalidations.

The number of live applications of all categories was reported as 1,212.

Across all Gateway 2 categories, 65% of closed applications were related to London cases, with 404 made in the capital over the past 12 weeks.

Remediation improvement plan due to be announced

A remediation improvement plan is set to be formally announced and introduced over the coming weeks.

The plan is intended to improve the efficiency, quality and timeliness of applications for remediation projects.

It will focus on strengthening BSR resource capacity, improving internal processes and supporting industry to submit higher quality applications.

The update reported 86 remediation decisions made since December 2025, including 41 in London, and 77 new cases received.

There were 279 live remediation cases being processed, representing 24,282 units.

The BSR said late 2025 and early 2026 remediation applications are averaging around 18 weeks, with complex older remediation cases taking longer for decisions.

It said it will publish specific remediation guidance in the coming weeks, alongside improved feedback and support for applicants.

New build decisions, legacy cases and Innovation Unit activity

Gateway 2 new build applications in the 12-week rolling period to 25 February recorded 108 decisions, with 82 new applications received.

New build applications representing 15,178 residential units were received, with decisions on 23,197 units issued, including 10,514 approvals.

There were 31,191 units in live cases.

Legacy cases reduced from 60 at the start of December to three normal applications, with a separate cohort of 18 applications with significant technical issues moved into a complex case category.

The BSR said approval rates of legacy cases continue to be 53%.

The BSR Innovation Unit (IU) made 27 decisions in the past 12 weeks, including 10 in London, and is currently managing 123 live new build applications representing 26,224 units, with 69 of those in the capital.

Eleven applications have been approved with a median approval time of 18 weeks.

For post-validation applications, 33% are approved and 33% rejected, with the remainder under active account management.

Charlie Pugsley, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Building Safety Regulator, said: “We continue to see improvements to the numbers of decisions being made for new build applications, and the numbers of safe homes being made available for the future.

“We also continue to engage even more closely with applicants to help improve the quality of those applications and that continues to see tangible results that will make a real difference.

“However, we recognise that current determination times are falling short of our targets for remediation.

“Our Remediation improvement plan, which will be formally announced and rolled out operationally over the coming weeks, will represent a targeted package of focussed measures to reset the system.

“But speed can never come at the cost of safety, whether that be for new build or existing homes.

“Our goal continues to be to ensure that industry can construct safe buildings, and that residents can see the essential safety improvements they deserve without unnecessary delays.”

The update also described a batching pilot for bundling new build and remediation applications for accelerated assessment, stating that initial data indicates faster processing times than previous methods and that the model remains under evaluation.

Building Safety Regulator becomes standalone body in Gateway 2 reform milestone

by ConstructionFeatured NewsHealth and SafetySafety

Gateway 2 framework and transition to standalone status

The Building Safety Regulator officially became a standalone organisation on 27 January 2026, marking a structural shift in the delivery of Gateway 2 building control oversight.

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR), previously part of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), transitioned to an arm’s-length public body under the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, paving the way for the creation of a single construction regulator as recommended by the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

The regulator was established in 2021 following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, with full statutory powers introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022.

The move formalises a broader mandate that extends beyond high-rise buildings to include responsibility for safety standards across all buildings in England.

The transition follows what BSR described as an operational reset in its role as the building control authority for higher-risk buildings, supported by the introduction of its Innovation Unit and new efficiency measures.

These changes were positioned as part of efforts to improve operational delivery, target regulatory guidance and support competence development across the construction sector.

Regulatory mission, leadership and sector response

Lord Roe, Chair of BSR, said: “Today is a decisive and important step in strengthening building safety and a milestone that marks our evolution into a standalone regulator.

“While the creation of BSR in 2021 was a watershed moment, today is about looking forward to a single construction regulator that brings coherence to a once-fragmented system.

“We will know we are successful when residents acknowledge we have made the built environment safer.

“Today is about continuing to support homes being built safely while fulfilling our primary mission: ensuring we are all building better and living safer, together.”

Charlie Pugsley, Acting Chief Executive Officer of BSR, said: “Today is a significant new chapter for BSR, with a clear signal that while we must continue to focus on improving our operational delivery for both new build homes and occupied HRBs, our mandate extends far beyond high-rise oversight to a broader responsibility for safety and standards across buildings in England.

“By driving professional competence and refining regulatory guidance, we can ensure a holistic approach that spans from initial design through to lifelong building management.

“Our commitment to robust enforcement and cultural transformation serves a single, vital purpose in 2026 and beyond – restoring resident confidence and trust in the built environment.”

Samantha Dixon, Building Safety Minister, said: “Everyone deserves to live in a safe home and we are determined to deliver lasting change to make this a reality.

“The Building Safety Regulator sits at the heart of this mission, and today launching a new body is an important step in realising sector wide reform.

“I look forward to working with the new leadership team on our journey towards the Single Construction Regulator.”

Mark Reynolds, Executive Chair of Mace Group and Chair of the Construction Leadership Council, said: “Over the last twelve months we’ve seen a very tangible shift in how BSR has worked with the Construction Leadership Council and developers across the country, and the result has been a more effective process, enabling safer buildings to be commissioned and delivered faster.

“The UK needs confidence that the construction industry, the regulator and government are all working together to deliver new and safe housing at scale – and I believe this moment marks a major step forward on that journey.

“As an independent body and working under the leadership of Charlie and Andy I have no doubt we’ll see more positive progress during 2026.”

The transition formalises BSR’s independence and establishes its governance framework as the regulator works toward the development of a single construction regulator model.

Regulatory role and standalone status

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) outlined the regulatory framework and operational changes following the transition to standalone status.

The HSE described the Building Safety Regulator as the national regulator responsible for improving the safety and standards of all buildings in England, established in 2021 following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, with full statutory powers introduced under the Building Safety Act 2022.

From 27 January 2026, BSR operates as a stand-alone executive non-departmental public body sponsored by MHCLG, with governance and accountability formalised while day-to-day regulatory activity continues.

The framework includes responsibility for regulating higher-risk residential buildings over 18 metres or seven storeys across design, construction and occupation through a three-stage gateway approval process.

BSR also acts as the building control authority for all higher-risk buildings, including hospitals and care homes, and oversees the performance of local authority and private sector building control bodies.

Charlie Pugsley, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Building Safety Regulator, said: “This month marks a significant new chapter for BSR as a standalone body, with the knowledge that our new processes are driving improvements – evidenced by the fact we recently made the most decisions in our operating history.

“We are determined to build on this momentum by launching a Remediation Improvement Plan to tackle complex remediation cases and streamline resources.

“We will also be engaging even more closely with applicants to help improve the quality of new build HRB applications.

“By driving these improvements, we can ensure we keep essential construction projects being built, while upholding the critical safety standards that protect residents in both new and existing homes.”

Gateway 2 decisions and application volumes

The Building Safety Regulator published new building control approval data covering November 2025 to January 2026.

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) recorded 698 Gateway 2 decisions across all application types in the 12 weeks to 24 January 2026.

Live applications across all categories totalled 1,159.

The final quarter of 2025 recorded 673 decisions by 31 December, compared with just over 200 in early 2025.

Across all Gateway 2 categories, 68% of decisions related to London cases, totalling 476 decisions in the capital since November.

In the 12 weeks to 24 January, 97 Gateway 2 new build applications received decisions and 99 new build applications were submitted.

New build applications represented 19,600 residential units.

Decisions were issued for 19,914 units, including 11,962 approvals.

Live cases represented 37,065 residential units.

Legacy, remediation and Innovation Unit performance

The update set out volumes and decision outcomes for legacy applications, remediation cases and the BSR Innovation Unit alongside new build activity.

Since November, 52 decisions were made on outstanding legacy cases inherited under the previous model, with 29 in London.

The approval rate for historic applications viable to receive a decision reached 87%.

The remaining 29 complex legacy cases were under assessment to determine whether continued resources were warranted or whether rejection and resubmission would be required.

Since 3 November 2025, 75 remediation decisions were issued and 73 new remediation cases were received.

Live remediation cases totalled 286, representing 24,949 units.

A batching pilot delivered 12 decisions, with a Remediation Improvement Plan scheduled to launch in the coming weeks to address application quality and streamline internal resources.

In the past 12 weeks, the BSR Innovation Unit (IU) recorded 39 decisions, with 27 in London.

The IU managed 111 live new build applications representing 25,226 units, including 61 in the capital.

Of cases progressing beyond validation, 30% were approved and 41% were rejected.

Initial validation failure rates reached 56%, linked to missing basic design information.

Industry reaction on Gateway 2 evidence and digital records

Rob Norton, UK Director at PlanRadar, said: “The BSR becoming a standalone body corporate is the final nail in the coffin for ‘analogue’ site management.

“For years, the industry has treated documentation as a post-script, something to be tidied up at the end of a project.

“Those days are over.

“An independent regulator, equipped with its own board and a dedicated enforcement mandate, isn’t going to accept a ring-binder full of blurred photos and missing signatures as proof of safety.

“The real challenge for Gateway 2 and 3 isn’t the regulations themselves, it’s the evidence.

“We are currently seeing a massive disconnect between on-site reality and regulatory reporting, which is the single biggest factor behind the Gateway delays currently stalling UK construction.

“If the BSR is to succeed in clearing these backlogs as an independent entity, it requires high-quality, tamper-proof digital data.

“Without a robust ‘Golden Thread,’ developers are essentially playing Russian Roulette with their completion certificates.

“This independence should be a wake-up call.

“The BSR now has the autonomy to set a higher bar for digital competence.

“We can’t expect to build the next generation of high-rise homes using the record-keeping standards of the 1990s.

“It’s time for the industry to stop viewing digital tools as an ‘extra’ and start seeing them as the only way to stay on the right side of an empowered regulator.”

Dr David Crosthwaite, chief economist at BCIS, said: “Data published by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) in the past few months has spoken for itself.

“While more building control approval decisions are being made thanks to the new Innovation Unit, the speed of decision-making, specifically for remediation applications, must improve.

“Establishing the BSR as an independent organisation is certainly an important step toward unifying and simplifying how construction is regulated.

“It shows the industry is being listened to in the same way the BSR’s process adaptations did last year.

“That said, the BSR cannot afford to take its foot off the gas.

“Its new caseload is growing and construction’s residential market particularly would benefit from a slicker regulatory system sooner rather than later.

“Both private and public sector housing output has slowed and fewer approval holdups would go a long way to speed up project starts and the economic value they can deliver.”

What NFCC’s new remediation warning means for safety reform

by Breaking NewsConstructionPassiveSafety

Building remediation hindered by broken safety system

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has warned that building remediation is being delayed by deep-rooted problems in the UK’s building safety regime.

Launching its Remediation Position Statement, the NFCC said that relying on fire and rescue services to enforce a system that is not functioning properly is unsustainable.

The organisation urged ministers to create a centrally coordinated programme to address compliance, funding, accountability and workforce shortages.

It said that without such an approach, serious safety gaps would remain unresolved.

NFCC warns of barriers to government remediation targets

According to the NFCC, the Government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan is a step forward but faces major obstacles.

The plan aims to complete remediation of all high-rise buildings over 18 metres by 2029 and medium-rise buildings over 11 metres by 2031.

NFCC said that fluctuating government estimates of affected buildings, ranging from 5,900 to 12,000, have made it difficult to plan.

Of the 5,554 buildings within the public remediation programme, almost two-thirds remain incomplete.

The Government’s current working estimate is around 9,000 buildings.

Funding inconsistencies have also limited progress, NFCC said, with existing schemes often covering cladding but excluding other major defects.

The organisation added that fragmented funding arrangements, based on factors such as tenure, height and materials, have left many buildings stalled in uncertainty.

Financial and workforce pressures strain fire services

NFCC highlighted the financial pressure on fire and rescue services if they are required to inspect all buildings that may need remediation.

Depending on the final number of buildings within scope, the council estimated costs between £29.86 million and £61.77 million, with a working figure of £46.11 million based on 9,000 buildings.

NFCC said that this financial demand comes as many services face real-terms budget cuts, reducing their ability to oversee other high-risk sites such as hospitals and care homes.

Workforce shortages are also compounding delays, with fewer than 30 fully competent fire engineers currently working within English fire and rescue services.

The council said that training for such roles takes years and that recruitment has been made harder by experienced staff moving into the private sector.

Fire safety and building protection staff currently make up just 2.7% of the total fire and rescue service workforce in England.

The wider construction sector faces similar challenges, with the Chartered Institute of Building reporting a 250,000-person shortfall at a time of rising demand for new homes and infrastructure.

NFCC said its calls for a cross-departmental Construction Skills Strategy to address these shortages have not yet been acted upon.

NFCC chair calls for stronger regulation and accountability

Phil Garrigan, Chair of the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “The Grenfell Tower fire was a national tragedy that exposed fundamental flaws in how we design, build, manage and regulate our homes.

“Fire and rescue services have played a vital role in making buildings safer, but enforcement alone cannot fix a broken system.

“Eight years on, progress is not where it should be. We must tackle the root causes – fragmented oversight, weak regulation, and chronic gaps in workforce, funding and data.

“Fire risk must be embedded into every stage of building safety, not left to emergency response.

“Underpinning all of this must be tougher regulation. The Grenfell Tower fire showed us, in the most devastating way, what happens when building regulations are too weak to protect people.

“We cannot allow that lesson to be ignored. The Government must implement the Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommendations in full and strengthen regulation to ensure no community is ever put at such risk again.”

NFCC outlines six priority actions for reform

The council’s position statement calls for six core actions.

It has urged the Government to establish a centrally led, risk-based remediation programme with defined roles, responsibilities and timelines.

It also wants a construction skills strategy to address shortages of fire engineers, surveyors, risk assessors and related trades.

Funding should be kept under review to ensure both internal and external defects are covered without costs being passed to leaseholders.

NFCC called for an urgent review of building regulations guidance to make sure safety standards are enforceable, risk-based and realistic.

It said that recently introduced enforcement powers must be clarified so that the Building Safety Regulator can coordinate action effectively.

Finally, NFCC said that the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations should be implemented through regulation of relevant professions, a large-scale product testing regime and publicly available compliance data.

Relevance for fire and safety professionals

This development affects several key groups within the fire and building safety sectors.

Fire and rescue services are directly impacted, as NFCC’s estimate shows potential inspection costs exceeding £46 million depending on the final scope of remediation.

Building control professionals, fire engineers and risk assessors face growing demand for skilled expertise amid workforce shortages and increased regulatory expectations.

For construction and facilities managers, the NFCC’s call for a risk-based remediation programme highlights the operational challenges of coordinating funding, timelines and compliance under fragmented schemes.

The proposed reforms also have implications for policymakers, regulators and those responsible for enforcing the Building Safety Act, particularly where responsibilities overlap with the Building Safety Regulator.

Taylor Wimpey increases fire safety provision by £222 million following updated assessments

by ConstructionFeatured NewsPassiveSafety

UK housebuilder expands cladding remediation work amid revised risk profile

Taylor Wimpey plc has increased its cladding fire safety provision by £222.2 million following updated fire risk assessments and site investigations across legacy buildings.

According to the company’s half-year 2025 results, the reassessment led to a higher estimate of costs associated with remediating cavity barrier defects behind brickwork and render, which had not been visible in earlier surveys.

The new provision includes £144.9 million for expanded remedial works, £39.5 million for additional cladding remediation, and £37.8 million for site-specific costs, professional fees and contingencies.

The company said it continues to support leaseholders by covering remediation costs and reiterated that residents should not bear the financial burden of these works.

Taylor Wimpey said the provision reflects its best current estimate, noting that it is pursuing cost recovery where applicable, including legal action where necessary.

Reassessment prompted by evolving guidance and expanded surveys

Taylor Wimpey explained that recent work to meet the Government’s Remediation Action Plan deadlines included further Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW) and intrusive investigations.

The company stated that two-thirds of the additional provision relates to cavity barriers not identified during previous non-intrusive surveys.

It noted that some of the increase was linked to recent changes in how chartered fire engineers interpret the PAS 9980 standard, which has resulted in more conservative assessments of risk.

Buildings that previously required no remediation under older EWS1 assessments were now identified as needing work based on current FRAEW analysis, according to the company.

The firm said it had increased internal capability and accelerated its remediation programme to meet regulatory timelines and ensure safety standards are maintained.

Financial impact and group performance in first half of 2025

The company reported a loss before tax of £92.1 million in the first half of 2025, compared to a £99.7 million profit in the same period the previous year.

This result reflects exceptional charges, including the £222.2 million fire safety provision and an £18.0 million provision related to commitments made to the Competition and Markets Authority.

Group operating profit for the period was £161.0 million, including a £20.0 million charge related to defective workmanship by a former contractor on a London development.

Taylor Wimpey reaffirmed its guidance for full-year UK completions to be between 10,400 and 10,800 homes, with operating profit expected to be around £424 million.

The firm reported an 11% year-on-year increase in group completions, including joint ventures, rising to 5,264 homes in the first half of 2025.

Cladding remediation cost outlook and financial planning

Taylor Wimpey said it still expects cash outflow related to cladding remediation to be around £100 million in 2025, unchanged from earlier guidance.

While the revised provision increases the gross cost over a longer timeframe, the company stated that lower tax payments are likely to offset this in 2026.

The provision excludes any potential recoveries, although the company confirmed it is pursuing claims against responsible parties where applicable.

The company described the £222.2 million increase as its best estimate based on current assessments, noting that the provision is subject to change as further buildings are evaluated and remediation progresses.

Taylor Wimpey ended the period with a net cash balance of £326.6 million and anticipates a year-end balance of around £350 million, subject to land investment.

Ongoing remediation strategy and customer engagement

Taylor Wimpey said it prioritises completing works efficiently without compromising safety or quality.

The company said it remains committed to ensuring residents have a clear resolution pathway, and reiterated that leaseholders would not be asked to contribute financially to fire safety remediation.

Taylor Wimpey stated that its internal remediation delivery capability has been strengthened and that progress toward government completion targets is ongoing.

Chief Executive Jennie Daly said: “The safety of our customers remains our highest priority – this principle has consistently guided our approach.”

Daly added: “We have therefore increased our cladding fire safety provision to reflect findings from updated fire risk assessments and investigations in the first half.”

The firm confirmed it would continue to engage with relevant authorities, including the Building Safety Regulator, as well as industry professionals, to meet all legal and safety obligations.

Wimpey increases fire safety provision by £222 million following updated assessments: Summary

Taylor Wimpey plc has raised its fire safety provision by £222.2 million.

The company attributed the increase to expanded cavity barrier remediation works, new FRAEW assessments and evolving fire engineer interpretations.

Two-thirds of the increased provision relates to defects behind brickwork and render not visible in earlier inspections.

The updated figure includes £39.5 million for additional cladding-related work and £37.8 million in cost adjustments.

Fire safety remediation costs are not being passed to leaseholders, the company said.

Cash outflows in 2025 remain forecast at £100 million.

The company is pursuing cost recovery where responsible parties can be identified.

Net cash at the end of the first half was £326.6 million.

Operating profit for H1 2025 was £161.0 million, including a £20.0 million remediation charge unrelated to cladding.

Loss before tax was £92.1 million, also reflecting a £15.8 million CMA-related provision.

Taylor Wimpey reaffirmed full-year UK completion guidance of 10,400 to 10,800 homes.

Unsafe cladding remediation data: England update

by ConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Nearly half of high-rise residential buildings with unsafe cladding still awaiting full remediation

According to the Fire Protection Association, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has published updated figures on the remediation of high-rise residential buildings with unsafe cladding in England.

As of the end of March 2025, 5,031 residential buildings 11 metres and over in height have been identified as having unsafe cladding.

MHCLG reported that remediation work has either started or been completed on 2,459 of these buildings, with 1,637 having completed the process.

Progress reported across safety funding schemes

The Fire Protection Association reported that 824 buildings have been confirmed as eligible for support through the Building Safety Fund.

Of the remaining 2,861 registered for the scheme, 456 have been transferred to developers and 121 to the Cladding Safety Scheme.

There are now 617 buildings eligible under the Cladding Safety Scheme, and 602 of these have signed Grant Funding Agreements.

This represents an increase of 37 signed agreements since the previous reporting period in February 2025.

Developer remediation and social housing data

MHCLG confirmed that 4,648 buildings are within scope of the developer remediation contract.

Of these, 844 buildings have been identified with life-critical fire safety defects which developers are responsible for addressing.

The Regulator of Social Housing has reported that 2,718 social housing buildings 11 metres or taller have been identified with cladding-related fire safety defects.

Of these, 857 buildings have completed remediation works.

A total of 1,915 of the affected social buildings were reported by registered providers during their most recent assessment.

Local authority enforcement activity increases

The Fire Protection Association noted that enforcement action has now been taken against 537 buildings over 11 metres in height with unsafe cladding.

This reflects an increase of five buildings since the February 2025 update.

Local authorities have undertaken 156 inspections with Joint Inspection Team support across 153 buildings.

Out of the 537 buildings with enforcement activity, 122 were rated Category 1 and 360 as Category 2 under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.

MHCLG stated: “Of the 537 buildings, we are aware that at least 194 improvement notices, 54 hazard awareness notices and 1 prohibition order have been served to date. Some buildings may have received multiple notices. We understand that 44 of the improvement notices have been subject to appeals.”

Unsafe cladding remediation data: England update – Summary

The Fire Protection Association reported that 5,031 residential buildings 11 metres and over in height in England have been identified with unsafe cladding.

MHCLG stated that 2,459 of these buildings have either started or completed remediation works.

A total of 1,637 buildings have completed remediation.

MHCLG is monitoring an additional 17 buildings since February 2025.

Thirty-one more buildings are known to have started or completed remediation, including 18 that have completed it.

The Building Safety Fund has confirmed eligibility for 824 buildings.

456 buildings have been transferred to developers and 121 to the Cladding Safety Scheme.

617 buildings are eligible under the Cladding Safety Scheme, with 602 having signed Grant Funding Agreements.

MHCLG confirmed 4,648 buildings are under the developer remediation contract.

844 of those buildings have life-critical fire safety defects.

2,718 social housing buildings have been identified with fire-safety cladding defects.

857 social housing buildings have completed remediation.

Enforcement action has been taken against 537 buildings over 11 metres in height.

194 improvement notices, 54 hazard awareness notices and 1 prohibition order have been issued.

44 of the improvement notices are under appeal.

Fire safety remediation: RSH reports 1,920 buildings with critical external wall defects

by Breaking NewsBuilding ManagementPassiveSafety

Fire safety remediation survey identifies 1,920 buildings with critical issues

The Regulator of Social Housing has reported that 1,920 buildings in the social housing sector in England have a life-critical fire safety defect linked to their external wall system.

According to the latest quarterly data published on 20 March 2025, 17,299 buildings over 11 metres in height were reported by landlords.

Of these, 11.1% were identified as having a life-critical fire safety (LCFS) defect related to the external wall system.

The data was gathered during the Q3 2024/2025 survey, which ran from 13 December 2024 to 22 January 2025 and covers reporting as of 31 December 2024.

Most remediation expected within five years, though delays remain

73.6% of buildings with LCFS defects are expected to be remediated within five years.

However, the Regulator noted that completion dates for 21.1% of affected buildings extend beyond ten years or remain unclear.

Landlords said that delays were caused by complex legal arrangements, difficulties in sourcing contractors and issues in the supply chain.

Remediation work has begun on 355 buildings, or 18.5% of the total affected.

Monitoring continues across all landlords with relevant buildings

Landlords are required to submit quarterly data to the Regulator and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

They are expected to maintain accurate records and ensure risk mitigation measures are in place while remediation work is ongoing.

Will Perry, Director of Strategy at the Regulator of Social Housing, said: “Tenants’ health and safety is non-negotiable and we have a number of tools at our disposal – including these surveys, as well as proactive inspections and responsive engagement – to make sure landlords are making the necessary progress on fire safety remediation.

“Boards and councillors have a duty to seek assurance that landlords are meeting legal obligations for building safety, and that risks are being well managed and promptly remedied.

“This includes any risks to tenants while work has not been completed.”

Data shows historical and ongoing remediation progress

Since 14 June 2017, a total of 2,545 buildings have been identified with an LCFS external wall defect.

Of these, 625 buildings (24.6%) have already been remediated.

An additional 123 buildings (4.8%) have had works completed and are awaiting a new building works assessment.

A total of 478 buildings (24.9%) are reported to have had remediation works either started or completed.

In the most recent quarter, 29% of landlords (434 in total) reported owning at least one relevant building, with most being large landlords with 1,000 or more units.

Fire safety remediation: RSH reports 1,920 buildings with critical external wall defects: Summary

The Regulator of Social Housing published quarterly fire safety remediation data on 20 March 2025.

It reported that 11.1% of the 17,299 relevant buildings in England’s social housing sector have a life-critical fire safety defect related to external wall systems.

The data, covering Q3 2024/2025, showed that 73.6% of affected buildings are expected to be remediated within five years.

Remediation has started on 355 buildings.

Since June 2017, 2,545 buildings have been identified with external wall defects.

Of these, 625 have been remediated and 123 have completed work awaiting assessment.

406 buildings have a completion date beyond ten years or an unclear timeline.

The report stated that delays stem from legal, contractor and supply chain issues.

434 landlords reported at least one relevant building this quarter, mostly large providers.

The Regulator continues to monitor remediation progress through surveys, inspections and engagement with landlords.

Fire safety subsidy scheme announced for medium and high-rise social housing in Wales

by Building ManagementConstructionFeatured NewsSafety

Overview of the fire safety subsidy scheme for social sector housing

The Welsh Government has introduced the “Medium and High-Rise Residential Building Fire Safety Capital Grant (Social Sector) Subsidy Scheme” to address fire safety defects in medium and high-rise social housing.

As reported by the Welsh Government, the scheme aims to fund Welsh social sector landlords for remediation work on buildings over 11 metres in height with identified as-built fire safety issues.

The grant supports efforts to improve fire safety compliance, safeguard residents, and rebuild public confidence in the safety of affected social housing.

Funding and eligibility criteria

The scheme has a total budget allocation of £128 million, running from 2020 to 2032.

Eligible applicants include registered social landlords and local authorities in Wales.

Each grant covers 100% of approved costs, with individual awards capped at £20 million.

Only fire and structural safety issues in buildings over 11 metres tall, identified through risk-based assessments, qualify for funding.

Implementation and policy objectives

The subsidy scheme is implemented under the authority of Welsh Ministers, leveraging powers granted by the Local Government Act 2003 and Housing Act 1996.

The scheme’s objectives include rapid remediation of identified fire safety defects, compliance with fire safety standards, and support for the Welsh construction sector by engaging specialised contractors.

Application and contact details

Applicants must inform the Subsidy Control Unit of their intention to provide awards under this scheme.

Contact details for the Subsidy Control Unit:

  • Address: Cathays Park, Cardiff CF10 3NQ, United Kingdom
  • Telephone: +44 (0)3000 604 400
  • Email: subsidycontrolunit@gov.wales

Correspondence is welcomed in Welsh and English.

Fire safety subsidy scheme announced for medium and high-rise social housing in Wales: Summary

The Welsh Government has introduced a £128 million fire safety subsidy scheme to support the remediation of fire safety defects in medium and high-rise social sector buildings across Wales.

The initiative aims to fund local authorities and registered social landlords for necessary fire and structural safety work on buildings exceeding 11 metres in height.

The scheme will provide grants covering 100% of eligible costs, capped at £20 million per award.

It operates from 2020 to 2032, depending on the completion of remediation projects.

Applicants must comply with risk-based assessments and notify the Subsidy Control Unit when applying for awards.

Tougher targets set for removing unsafe cladding in England, industry responds

by Breaking NewsConstructionSafety

Government introduces the remediation acceleration plan

The UK government has announced its Remediation Acceleration Plan to tackle unsafe cladding in England.

The plan, published today, outlines measures to expedite the remediation process, hold accountable rogue freeholders, and support affected residents.

According to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, key targets include the remediation of all high-rise (18m+) buildings with unsafe cladding by the end of 2029 through government-funded schemes.

By the same date, all buildings over 11 metres with unsafe cladding will either be remediated, have a set completion date, or see their landlords face penalties for inaction.

Building Safety Minister Alex Norris said: “Every resident deserves to feel safe in their home.

“By setting a clear timeline and firm deadlines, today’s announcement is a major step towards ensuring every building is made safe.”

Developer commitments and enforcement measures

The plan is supported by a joint action plan with developers, aiming to double the rate of remediation work on buildings they are responsible for.

At least 29 developers, representing over 95% of the self-remediation workload, have committed to starting work on all their affected buildings by summer 2027.

The plan also includes increased investment in enforcement to enable local authorities, fire and rescue services, and the Building Safety Regulator to address hundreds of cases annually.

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner said: “The pace of remediation has been far too slow for far too long.

“We are taking decisive action to right this wrong and make homes safe.”

Progress since Grenfell and challenges ahead

The plan comes seven years after the Grenfell Tower fire, where 72 lives were lost.

While 95% of buildings with cladding similar to that used on Grenfell have been remediated, only 30% of all identified unsafe buildings in England have been addressed.

Thousands more buildings are expected to be added to the remediation list through a comprehensive register to identify unsafe cladding using advanced data assessments.

The plan builds on findings from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, which highlighted systemic failures in ensuring safety.

The government will provide updates on progress by March 2025, with a long-term social housing remediation strategy to follow in spring 2025.

Regulatory changes for building safety

The announcement coincides with a parliamentary debate on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s final report, which includes proposals for improving statutory guidance on building regulations.

The Building Safety Regulator will oversee a continuous review process to ensure clarity and accountability in fire safety and building design standards.

Social housing remediation will also be accelerated, with targeted support for eligible social landlords to begin work sooner.

The government aims to review 80% of the 11m+ building stock by 2025, reaching 95% by late 2025, and holding those responsible for unsafe cladding accountable.

National Fire Chiefs Council highlights workforce challenges

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has welcomed the UK government’s Remediation Acceleration Plan but cautioned that achieving the outlined targets will face significant challenges.

Responding to the announcement, NFCC Chair Mark Hardingham said: “We welcome the Government’s plans to improve building safety and accelerate the removal of unsafe cladding.

“Addressing these risks is a critical step towards preventing future tragedies and ensuring the safety of people in their homes across the country.”

Hardingham emphasised the practical difficulties in delivering such a large-scale programme.

He noted a shortage of skilled professionals required to meet the ambitious targets and warned that current pressures on fire and rescue services may hinder progress.

He stated: “Without a coordinated, long-term strategy to address workforce shortages and build capacity, there is a real risk of overstretching the capacity of competent practitioners across the fire and wider construction sectors.”

The NFCC has called for sustainable funding and collaboration with all stakeholders, including local authorities, industry leaders, and training providers, to ensure a systemic response.

Fire Brigades Union calls for urgent action

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has criticised the delays in addressing unsafe cladding, describing the prolonged crisis as unacceptable.

FBU General Secretary Matt Wrack said: “It is now more than seven years since the Grenfell Tower fire, an entirely preventable disaster which took the lives of 72 people.

“Residents and firefighters had been warning of the dangers of flammable cladding for years before it took place.”

Wrack called for accelerated action on cladding, increased investment in local government, and stronger support for the fire and rescue services.

He also urged an end to the privatisation of building control, which he described as a contributing factor to the crisis.

He added: “It is an utter disgrace that many millions of people are on course to be left living in unsafe buildings for at least 12 years after the Grenfell Tower fire.

“We urge the government to speed this process up.”

Stakeholders seek long-term strategies for building safety

Both organisations have stressed the importance of addressing systemic issues that underpin the cladding crisis.

The NFCC highlighted the need for sustainable funding to support fire and rescue services, ensuring they can fulfil statutory obligations while contributing to the remediation programme.

The FBU echoed this sentiment, calling for immediate investment in local government and public services to address the crisis effectively.

Both groups have expressed their willingness to collaborate with the government and industry to ensure the safety of affected residents and prevent future tragedies.

Tougher targets set for removing unsafe cladding in England, industry responds: Summary

The UK government has launched the Remediation Acceleration Plan to address unsafe cladding in England.

The plan sets deadlines for remediating high-rise and mid-rise buildings by 2029 and introduces penalties for non-compliance.

At least 29 developers will increase their remediation efforts, with enforcement powers given to local authorities and the Building Safety Regulator.

The plan builds on Grenfell Tower Inquiry findings, aiming to identify all unsafe buildings through a comprehensive register and advanced data tools.

Social housing remediation will also be prioritised, with a strategy due in 2025.

The NFCC and FBU have responded to the UK government’s announcement of its Remediation Acceleration Plan to remove unsafe cladding.

The NFCC welcomed the initiative but highlighted workforce shortages and capacity challenges as obstacles to achieving the proposed targets.

The FBU criticised the delays, describing the situation as unacceptable and calling for immediate action on cladding, investment in public services, and an end to the privatisation of building control.

Both organisations stressed the need for a coordinated, long-term strategy involving collaboration across all sectors to address the crisis effectively and prevent future tragedies.