The Building Safety Act 2022 (BSA 2022) introduced the role of Building Regulations Principal Designer (BRPD) to enhance accountability, safety, and compliance in the design phase of building projects across England.
As BRPD’s, we are responsible for overseeing the design phase of your project and ensuring compliance with Building Regulations and safety standards, working closely with the design team and the Principal Contractor to achieve this.
Our team, comprising of RICS chartered surveyors (MRICS) and Chartered Building Engineers (C. Build MCABE), possesses the necessary competence and experience to act as BRPDs’.
We have in-depth knowledge of Building Regulations and the Gateway Process and adhere to PAS 8671, a rigorous framework for assessing our expertise to ensure we meet the highest standards.
The Gateway Pathway for Higher-Risk Buildings
For Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), a specific regulatory framework called the Gateway Pathway applies. The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) oversees this process, ensuring buildings meet safety standards at three key checkpoints:
- Gateway One (Planning): Fire safety aspects are reviewed during the planning permission stage.
- Gateway Two (Pre-Construction): Detailed plans are examined to ensure compliance with building regulations before construction begins.
- Gateway Three (Pre-Occupation): The completed building is assessed to confirm it meets approved safety standards before occupation is permitted.
We can guide you through the Gateway Process, including application submissions, in collaboration with your design team.
Our BRPD services go beyond just meeting the minimum requirements. We offer a comprehensive package to ensure your project’s success:
- Client Duty Advice: We advise clients on their obligations under the Building Safety Act.
- Design Team Compliance: We ensure the design team adheres to all compliance requirements.
- Design Team Coordination: We facilitate smooth communication and collaboration within the design team.
- Golden Thread Management: We oversee the creation and maintenance of the “Golden Thread” of safety-critical information.
- Compliance Demonstration: We demonstrate compliance through Building Regulations Compliance Trackers and Statements.
- Gateway Application Support: We coordinate Gateway application documentation.
- Change Control Process: We implement a system to track changes affecting Building Regulations compliance.
We can seamlessly integrate our BRPD role with our Contract Administration, Project Management and Employer’s Agent services, ultimately protecting all parties involved.
To find out more, get in touch with your local office via our meet the teams pages.