More effective communication and consistent enforcement are essential to improving compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022, according to speakers at London Build Expo 2025.

Drawing on new research from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), the panel highlighted the need for clearer guidance on the building regulations, stronger enforcement and targeted training. These measures are particularly important for SMEs and micro-businesses, which make up 99% of the sector and continue to report barriers to compliance.

BESA’s director of specialist knowledge, Rachel Davidson, told attendees that although 88% of industry professionals are aware of the Act, many SMEs find it “overwhelming and daunting” and feel “left behind”. She stressed the importance of cultural change: “78% of companies tell us that this is important to them, but fewer than half report having taken enough action.”

Davidson also emphasised increasing calls for consistent enforcement. “Unless there are consequences, clients will continue to think compliance is optional.” She added that BESA is providing more guidance to help firms understand “what good looks like” and focus on their specific responsibilities rather than the entire Act.

Hannah Carpenter of the Building Safety Wiki underlined the scale of the communication challenge in a sector employing 2.6 million people. She noted the need for value-driven messaging: “We need to be innovative about how we communicate... This cannot be about ticking boxes.”

She also encouraged the use of “non-traditional communication routes”, including partnerships with organisations like HMRC, to reach smaller businesses more effectively.

Gary Cass, CEO of Hertfordshire Building Control, pointed to signs of progress within organisations, particularly improvements at Gateway 2 where average submission times have fallen from 38 weeks to 17. He noted that long-term success will rely on industry collaboration and better understanding of the Building Regulations: “People need to be looking at compliance and focus on what’s required in the regulations, not guidance.”

Cass added that enforcement should be approached “in a positive way”, but warned of a significant resource challenge due to the falling number of Building Control officers and experienced inspectors.

View the source.
Our eNews provides regular insight into industry trends, news headlines, and product and service information. For more articles like this Subscribe to our enews.