The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has published a new guide to help construction clients understand their responsibilities under the Building Regulations and Building Safety Act 2022.

The free guide is aimed at organisations commissioning building work, including businesses, public bodies and charities. It sets out clients’ legal duties and provides guidance on determining whether projects are subject to Building Regulations.

The publication comes as clients face greater responsibilities for ensuring construction projects are properly planned, managed and delivered in line with building safety requirements.

CIOB guide sets out client responsibilities

CIOB’s outlines the responsibilities clients have under the Building Safety Act, including appointing competent professionals, providing relevant information and maintaining appropriate records throughout a project.

It also highlights the need for clients to remain involved during the delivery of construction work rather than treating their role as complete once contractors have been appointed.

A checklist included in the guide recommends that clients establish compliance processes before work begins, assess the competence of appointed experts and determine whether a project falls within the definition of a higher-risk building.

Ayo Allu, Chair of CIOB’s Client Steering Group, said: “As a client your role is no longer simply to commission construction work.

“You should help ensure it is properly planned, managed and delivered in compliance with the Building Regulations, keeping in mind the decisions you make before and during the project influence safety, quality and compliance.

“You are not expected to be a technical expert. However, you are expected to make informed decisions, appoint competent people, provide necessary information to your contractor and estate manager, maintain records and remain engaged throughout the project.

“It is not uncommon for projects to be derailed when clients are unaware of the level of involvement they need to have and only realise when it’s too late. By empowering clients to make good decisions from the outset and fulfil their legal obligations, their relationships with their contractors are likely to be easier and their projects more successful.”

Building Regulations compliance checklist for clients

The guide is intended to help clients establish their responsibilities before construction starts and maintain oversight throughout the project.

It covers the distinction between projects that are subject to Building Regulations and those that are not, as well as considerations around high-risk buildings.

CIOB said the guidance is designed to help clients make informed decisions about compliance and work more effectively with contractors and other project professionals.