BESA Reports ‘Total Lack of Engagement’ on Building Safety From Clients

• Content
• News
• BESA Reports ‘Total Lack of Engagement’ on Building Safety From Clients

08 January 2025

Clients are still pressuring contractors to prioritise cost and speed over safety, according to the Building Engineering Services Association. 

In a series of focus groups with its members throughout the UK, it was confirmed that “not a single client” had discussed compliance with them as suppliers. 

Projects also remain driven by cost and speed, particularly by owners and developers whose buildings are not classified as higher risk. The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) believes some clients believe the Building Safety Act only applies to these types of buildings. 

Members reported that clients wrongly believe the act applies to the construction industry and not developers, owners, or building managers. 

“Too many clients still think the act does not apply to them, so they need to be the target of a major awareness programme. It cannot be left to individual contractors to try and educate their clients, particularly while cost remains king.”

–Rachel Davidson

Director of Specialist Knowledge, BESA

BESA’s Director of Specialist Knowledge Rachel Davidson also highlighted regional differences when it comes to knowledge of the Building Safety Act: “There is also a serious geographical divide with clear evidence that the further north you go the less awareness of and engagement with the legislation you find, particularly among clients.”

Rachel believes that the building services industry needs clearer and simpler guidance to explain the legislation to their clients and a more “productive relationship” with the regulator. She said: “Too many clients still think the act does not apply to them, so they need to be the target of a major awareness programme. It cannot be left to individual contractors to try and educate their clients, particularly while cost remains king.”

Picture: a photograph of a building site where high-rise tower blocks are being built. Large cranes and scaffolding can. be seen. Image Credit: Shutterstock

Article written by Ella Tansley | Published 08 January 2025

Share

Related Articles