The Building Safety Act 2022 marks one of the most significant shifts in construction legislation in decades - especially for developers and contractors working on higher-risk buildings in London.

With a stronger regulatory framework now in place, design and construction teams must adapt to new duties, stricter oversight, and a much greater focus on accountability. For those involved in structural and façade design, the Act changes not just how buildings are delivered, but how they’re planned from the outset.

So, what does the Building Safety Act mean in practical terms - and how can contractors and developers in London stay ahead of the curve?

What is the Building Safety Act?

Introduced in response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the Building Safety Act aims to improve safety in high-rise residential buildings (HRBs) and other high-risk structures. It introduces:

• A new Building Safety Regulator

• A "golden thread" of information from design to occupancy

• Clearer duties for designers, contractors, and building owners

• Mandatory safety case reports and gateways during design and construction

In London, where much of the country’s high-rise residential development is concentrated, these changes are particularly relevant.

What this means for design and build integration

The Act requires that safety be considered from the very beginning of a project - not just during construction or handover. This reinforces the value of integrated design and build services. When structural, façade, and temporary works design are coordinated early, risk can be better managed and documentation remains consistent through all phases.

Abacus Contractors Design Services provides integrated engineering solutions that align closely with the new legal framework. Early collaboration between disciplines helps ensure that the ‘golden thread’ of information is preserved and that gateway approvals are achieved without costly delays.

Building safety oversight: more than compliance

The role of oversight has also evolved. It’s no longer just about meeting minimum standards - developers and contractors are now expected to demonstrate how safety has been considered and prioritised at each project stage.

Through design review, interface coordination, and comprehensive documentation, Abacus Contractors Design Services supports clients in fulfilling these new obligations. Safety is embedded in every drawing, calculation, and decision.

Who is responsible - and how to prepare

Under the Act, dutyholders include designers, principal contractors, and building owners. Everyone involved in a project must be clear on their responsibilities and ready to evidence their actions.

For contractors and developers in London, this means working with engineers who not only understand the technical aspects of compliance but who can also support you through the required gateway processes with well-documented, safety-led designs.

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Need structural and façade design that’s ready for the new safety era?

Abacus Contractors Design Services helps contractors and developers deliver compliant, coordinated designs under the Building Safety Act.

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