Key Takeaways from Tetra's Building Assessment Certificate Webinar
Tetra Consulting
At Tetra, we make buildings safer for people. Uniquely in our industry, we directly employ all our consultants.
At Tetra, we are committed to providing value to our industry beyond the property risk management services we offer to clients as diverse as Savills and the NHS. We understand the responsibility of safeguarding people, properties, and workplaces, and we know you value content that focuses on education, industry insights, and updates. This is why we host monthly webinars and speak at leading industry events, as well as share updates like this.
The impact of the Building Safety Act on the residential property sector cannot be underestimated. The large number of questions we receive on this topic at events and webinars demonstrates a clear need for clarity for those of you responsible for building safety.
With the regulator now calling forward buildings under this Act for their Building Assessment Certificate (BAC), our webinar on Wednesday, 5th June, was well-attended. Dr Shaun Lundy, Tetra's Quality Assurance & Strategy Director and a respected thought leader, shared valuable insights into the complexities of building safety and the importance of compliance with the Building Safety Act. Our goal was to demystify the BAC process and clarify the duties under Part 4 of the Building Safety Act.
Actionable Insights from the Webinar
Understanding the BAC Process: A Building Assessment Certificate (BAC) is a new requirement under the Building Safety Act, aimed at ensuring compliance with legal duties related to fire spread and structural safety for high-risk buildings (over 18 metres or seven storeys).
Application Requirements: The BAC application involves submitting the latest safety case report, a resident engagement strategy, information on mandatory occurrence reporting systems, and a statement confirming all relevant information has been provided to accountable persons.
Steps Involved in Applying for a BAC: Shaun detailed the application process for a BAC, highlighting the importance of early preparation and thorough documentation. Attendees were encouraged to gather all necessary documents and follow the steps outlined by the Building Safety Regulator.
Best Practices for Maintaining & Updating Building Information: Recognising that buildings may not be perfect, interim measures and clear plans for managing risks are necessary. It's essential to maintain an updated safety case report and keep residents informed throughout the process.
Timings and Triggers for a BAC Application: Applications must be submitted within 28 days when directed by the regulator. Regular reassessments are expected every five years, or sooner if significant issues are identified.
Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failure to submit a BAC application within the specified 28 days can lead to enforcement actions. If an application is refused, the regulator may issue notices for remedial actions, and ongoing compliance is crucial to avoid penalties.
Enforcement Actions by the BSR for Non-Compliance: The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) can request additional information, arrange meetings, or conduct site visits if the submitted documents do not provide sufficient assurance. Non-compliance can lead to enforcement actions to ensure safety issues are addressed.
Steps to Take if a BAC Application is Refused or Needs Correction: If an application is refused, the regulator will outline necessary remedial actions. Addressing these promptly and reapplying is essential to maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.
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Proportionality and Reasonable Steps: The concept of 'all reasonable steps' is crucial, meaning measures taken must be balanced in terms of cost and benefit. This does not mean updating every building to the latest standards but ensuring that significant risks are managed appropriately.
Continuous Improvement and Updates: Stay updated with the latest guidance and legislative changes, ensuring the safety case report is regularly reviewed and updated. Seeking competent advice and avoiding over-engineering can help maintain compliance effectively.
What’s Next?
Get Your Free Copy of the Recording and Presentation Slides
For those involved in building management and safety, the webinar was an invaluable resource, providing clarity and direction in a landscape that can often seem overwhelming. If you missed the webinar, don’t worry. Click below to download both a recording of the webinar and the presentation slides for free.
Ask Us Your Questions
We are always happy to answer your questions about the Building Safety Act. Let us know what you’d like to know.
About Tetra
At Tetra, we make buildings safer for people. Uniquely in our industry, we directly employ all our consultants, ensuring consistent training, quality, and service. This in-house expertise positions us as leaders in health and safety, fire safety, asbestos control, and legionella management. Our innovative approach includes PRISM, our cutting-edge property risk management software. We also offer a monthly programme of events and webinars, sharing our extensive industry insights. Recently, our commitment to quality and excellence was recognised with The Property Institute’s Ace Award for Health and Safety Partner of the Year.