Plans for a new Single Construction Regulator have been announced by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, setting out proposals to bring oversight of buildings, products and professionals under one unified system across the construction sector.
The proposals follow the first recommendation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 report, published in September 2024. The Inquiry called on the government to establish a single regulator to address fragmentation and complexity within the current regulatory framework for the built environment.
According to the government’s prospectus, the new regulator is intended to support a well-functioning building system that helps industry deliver the homes the country needs. The plans aim to improve outcomes for residents and building users, provide greater clarity and certainty for industry and investors, and create a fairer system that supports those who prioritise safety and quality.
Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy, Samantha Dixon, said: “The plans show how we are learning from the Grenfell tragedy and what we are doing to improve the effectiveness, consistency and efficiency of the construction sector and what we’re doing to make sure people’s homes are safe and good quality.”
She added: “The case for reform is strong – one regulator across the entire construction system will be better able to review evidence, identify risks, issues and opportunities, as well as support action with enforcement where it is necessary.”
The government has also launched a consultation seeking views from across the construction sector. Responses will inform the final plans, with a full response and further detail on regulatory reform due to be published in summer 2026.
Interim Chief Construction Advisor, Thouria Istephan, said: “This prospectus is the starting point for reform which delivers on the Grenfell Inquiry’s call for systemic change. The creation of a Single Construction Regulator will replace a fragmented system with one that prioritises safety, accountability and clarity – integrating oversight of buildings, products, and professions.” Andy Roe, Executive Chair of the Building Safety Regulator, added: “The journey toward a Single Regulator is a decisive and important step in strengthening building safety.”
He noted that work had already been undertaken to speed up application processes for new high-rise residential buildings, adding: “We are already seeing positive changes.”
The consultation will remain open until 20 March 2026. The announcement coincides with the publication of the government’s latest quarterly progress report on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, alongside the Fire
Engineers Authoritative Statement and Next Steps Document, and the Building Safety Regulator’s initial review of the definition of higher-risk buildings, with plans for ongoing review.