Not necessarily.
Many higher-risk buildings were constructed decades before current standards existed. The BSR's own assessment criteria recognise this.
Where fire control measures or building features would not meet the standard required if the building were constructed today, the assessment considers whether the Accountable Person has considered additional reasonable steps to improve safety.
The question is therefore not simply: "Does this comply with today's standard?" It is also: "What risk does this create in this particular building, what controls are already in place and would further measures be reasonable and proportionate?"
This is an important distinction between compliance checking and risk management.
Next step
Talk to us about reviewing your building safety case
Already have a report? We can look at the risk argument and the evidence behind it.
Find out moreRelated questions
- What does a proportionate and risk-based safety case look like?
It concentrates effort, evidence and scrutiny on the risks that matter most to the safety of that particular building.
- What is a Building Assessment Certificate?
A BAC is issued by the Building Safety Regulator following its assessment of how building safety duties are being met.
Building safety legislation, regulation and Building Safety Regulator guidance can change. This page is general information, not legal advice — always refer to current legislation and official guidance for your building.