Chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt, this independent review was commissioned by government following the Grenfell Tower fire. It published its final report and recommendations on future building regulatory and fire safety systems on 17th May. The report has identified evidence confirming the deep flaws in the current (building) system, including a lack of audit-trail and poor quality assurance. The report finds that a series of fundamental flaws in the current regulatory system has led to cultural issues across the sector, which can be described as a ‘race to the bottom’ caused either through ignorance, indifference, or because the system does not facilitate good practice. There is insufficient focus on delivering the best quality building possible." In particular the report highlights:
- Ignorance - of regulations and guidance.
- Indifference - with the primary motivation being to do things as quickly and cheaply as possible rather than to deliver quality homes.
- Lack of clarity - on roles and responsibilities, exacerbated by a level of fragmentation within the industry, and precluding robust ownership of accountability.
- Inadequate regulatory oversight and enforcement tools - the size or complexity of a project does not seem to inform the way in which it is overseen by the regulator. Where enforcement is necessary, it is often not pursued.
Where it is pursued, the penalties are so small as to be an ineffective deterrent.
The report's purpose is to provide recommendations regarding the future regulatory system and we can expect new regulations to address the above, at some point in 2019.
Posted on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 - 09:27
