Single Construction Regulator Seeks to Ensure Standards Across Sector

Plans for a new regulator to bring together standards across buildings, products and professionals in the construction sector have been announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). These proposals follow the first recommendation from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, which was published in September 2024. The Inquiry recommended that government create a ‘single construction regulator’ to reduce fragmentation and complexity in the way the built environment is regulated.

The published prospectus seeks to help ensure a well-functioning building system, which will support the industry to build the homes this country needs. The goal is to achieve better outcomes for residents and building users, clarity and certainty for industry and investors and a fairer system that benefits those who prioritise safety and quality.

Alongside this prospectus, MHCLG launched a consultation which seeks views on the plans from across the construction sector. This will inform final plans and a full response to the consultation will set out more detail on regulatory reform – set to be published in summer 2026.

Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy Samantha Dixon said: ‘The plans set out show how we are learning from the Grenfell tragedy and what we are doing to improve the effectiveness, consistency and efficiency of the construction sector and what we’re doing to make sure people’s homes are safe and good quality.

‘The case for reform is strong – one regulator across the entire construction system will be better able to review evidence, identify risks, issues and opportunities, as well as support action with enforcement where it is necessary.’

This announcement comes as the government publishes the next quarterly progress report on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. As part of this work, MHCLG has also published the Fire Engineers Authoritative Statement and Next Steps Document, results of the Building Safety Regulator’s initial review of the definition of higher-risk buildings, and plans for an ongoing review, as explored in a policy paper.

For more information visit the government’s latest progress report.