The Building Safety Act continues to reshape responsibilities across the built environment, with 2026 marking a period where implementation, compliance and evidence of good management are becoming increasingly important for property owners and duty holders.

Whilst much of the early focus centred on higher risk residential buildings, the wider principles of competence, accountability, record keeping and risk management are relevant across many commercial assets and mixed-use portfolios.

For owners and asset managers, the key message is clear: building safety is no longer something considered only at the point of construction or major refurbishment. It now requires an ongoing and demonstrable management approach.

Key areas owners should consider

1. Clear responsibility and governance
   Owners should understand who is responsible for managing fire safety, maintenance obligations, statutory inspections and contractor control. Gaps in responsibility can create avoidable risk.
2. Accurate building information
   Reliable records relating to construction, alterations, fire strategy information, servicing, asbestos data and maintenance history are increasingly valuable. Poor information often leads to delays, cost escalation and uncertainty.
3. Competent appointments
   Whether appointing designers, contractors or consultants, competence should be considered carefully. Selection based on cost alone can create greater exposure later.
4. Planned maintenance and risk reduction
   A reactive approach to defects and compliance matters is rarely efficient. Planned reviews and forward maintenance strategies help protect value and occupier confidence.
5. Refurbishment and change management
   Where works are proposed, owners should consider approvals, fire implications, structural matters and the suitability of procurement routes at an early stage.

Why it matters commercially

For investors, occupiers and lenders, well managed buildings are increasingly seen as lower risk assets. Strong governance can assist leasing, transactions, insurance discussions and business continuity.

Conversely, unresolved safety issues, incomplete records or unclear responsibilities can affect confidence, increase costs and delay decisions.

How Compass can help

Compass Building Consultancy supports owners, investors and occupiers with practical property advice, including technical due diligence, planned maintenance, project management and building surveying services.

A proportionate, pragmatic approach is usually the most effective route: understand the risks, prioritise actions and maintain clear records.