Government Launches Consultation on Single Construction Regulator Following Grenfell Inquiry

Eight years after the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the UK government has launched a Consultation seeking industry feedback on plans to establish a Single Construction Regulator. Andy Roe, Chair of the Building Safety Regulator, described this as a “decisive and important step in strengthening building safety.”

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry (the “Inquiry”) revealed deep-rooted systemic failures in the approach of the construction industry to building safety. With remediation costs now estimated at over £16 billion, residents continue to face rising insurance premiums and mortgage barriers, while developers are being forced to grapple with significant financial liabilities and reputational damage as they navigate complex compliance requirements and remediation obligations.

One of the Inquiry’s key recommendations was the creation of a single regulator to improve accountability and safety. According to the consultation, this new body will form part of a wider programme of regulatory reform, tasked with upholding standards to deliver safe buildings and ensuring construction products are fit for purpose.

Proposed Outcomes

The consultation sets out a vision for a well-functioning building system which:

1. ensures that buildings and built environments are safe, high-performing and deliver a healthy, accessible, secure and sustainable environment for occupants;
2. enables Companies and individuals to thrive when they operate in the interests of current and future building users;
3. makes sure that products for building are fit for their purpose and users are provided with accurate product information; and
4. encourages users to have confidence in a building system which prioritises the safety and needs of occupiers.

What Will Change?

The new regulator will consolidate functions currently spread across multiple bodies, replacing a fragmented system with one that prioritises safety, accountability, and clarity. This reform aims to improve productivity through streamlined operations and introduce a cultural shift led by industry; those prioritising safety will thrive and bad actors will face consequences.

The consultation also acknowledges that the current system places an excessive burden on residents seeking redress. Under the new model, the regulator will work to rebuild trust, monitor lived experiences, and empower residents through advice and advocacy.

An AI-led approach?

The regulator is expected to leverage digital tools and AI to promote consistent compliance, while maintaining human oversight to ensure fairness and transparency.

Samantha Dixon MBE MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy, stated:
“A tragedy like that at Grenfell must never happen again. We welcome everyone’s views on this consultation so we can shape the future direction of the regulator and wider building system.”

To respond to the consultation queries, click here: Single construction regulator prospectus: consultation document - GOV.UK.