Higher Risk Buildings
Higher Risk Buildings are buildings with at least two residential units, which are at least 18 metres in height or have at least seven storeys. The height of a building is to be measured from the ground level to the top of the floor surface of the top storey, ignoring any storey which is a roof-top machinery or roof-top plant area or consists exclusively of machinery or plant rooms.
Works to Higher Risk Buildings (HRBs) are subject to significantly more regulation and control. The provisions apply whether these are new HRBs, or involve works, alterations, or partial fit out to existing HRBs.
Initial Facts
- The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) will appoint Building Control for Higher Risk Buildings, not the client. This is for both alterations and new buildings
- The BSR will administer this process by utilising the Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs) which may include a suitably qualified and experienced Registered Building Inspector
- The building cannot be occupied or used until the Regulator has signed off the works (up to 8 weeks post PC (first use TBC))
- There are also additional gateways including enhanced record keeping through "The Golden Thread" that will need to be followed
It's important to remember that the Building Safety Act and Secondary Legislation affects all buildings, not just Higher Risk Buildings, however Higher Risk Buildings are now subject to additional, more stringent regulations.
