Consultation launched on improved building safety laws

The government is asking the views of residents, building owners, the construction industry and the fire safety sector on plans to improve building safety laws.

This comes following Dame Judith Hackitt's report into the Grenfell Tower fire.

The consultation proposes a stronger voice for residents of high-rise buildings. This includes better information regarding their buildings so that they can participate in decisions about safety, as well as clear and quick routes of escalation for their concerns if things do go wrong.

Part of the plans include the creation of 'dutyholders’, people who will have responsibility for keeping residents of these buildings safe, and making sure building regulations are followed. 

If the people responsible for a building ignore their responsibilities, a new building safety regulator will have the authority to take enforcement action against them. This could include criminal and civil sanctions, like fines or imprisonment.

Have your say in the consultation here.