Not necessarily.
First establish exactly what is missing.
There is an important difference between:
- No evidence exists
and
- The safety case has not adequately explained the evidence that already exists.
For example, you may already have a compartmentation survey, structural assessment or FRAEW, but the safety case may fail to explain its scope, limitations, significant findings or what those findings mean for the building's risk.
In that situation, another survey may add little value. The problem may be the safety case argument rather than the underlying evidence.
Where there is a genuine evidence gap, further investigation may be appropriate. However, if the BSR has requested a response within a short period, such as seven days, it may be reasonable to acknowledge the gap and explain:
- why further information is required
- what investigation is proposed
- who will undertake it
- the intended timescale
- how risk will be managed in the meantime
- how the findings will be incorporated into the building safety risk assessment
The appropriate response depends on the significance of the uncertainty and the risk associated with it.
Next step
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Find out moreRelated questions
- I've received an RFI from the BSR about my safety case. What should I do?
Start by identifying what the BSR is asking you to demonstrate. An RFI is not a request for more documents — it is a regulatory question that needs a clear, risk-based answer.
- What if I cannot close an information gap before the BSR response deadline?
Be transparent. A safety case does not become stronger by disguising uncertainty. Explain what is unknown, why it matters, what is known, current controls and the planned programme.
- Should all outstanding surveys be completed before BAC submission?
Not necessarily. The important questions are why the survey is required, what uncertainty it resolves, how significant that uncertainty is, and whether the risk is adequately managed while the work remains outstanding.
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.