The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has published its latest data on Gateway Two applications, covering the period 25 November to 22 December 2025, showing continued progress in addressing the backlog of applications and the work of the new Innovation Unit. While this is a positive step, the data highlights ongoing challenges that remain highly relevant for specialist contractors operating in the finishes and interiors sector.
Gateway Two – Progress and Ongoing Challenges
During this reporting period, the BSR made 347 decisions across all application types, bringing the total number of decisions since 29 September 2025 to 727.
For applications submitted under the previous Gateway Two model, the approval rate has increased to 83%, up from 73% in the previous reporting period, with a further 20 approvals issued. This improvement is welcome, particularly for projects that have experienced delays due to regulatory bottlenecks.
However, there remain 40 ‘legacy’ new build applications awaiting determination. While the BSR had intended to reduce this figure to just three by the end of 2025, progress has been slower than anticipated. In parallel, the Innovation Unit is now managing 102 live new build applications.
Of particular concern to FIS members is that 48% of applications assessed by the Innovation Unit to date have been deemed invalid, largely due to incomplete or missing documentation. This reinforces the importance of early engagement, coordinated design development and robust information management across the supply chain, areas where fit-out contractors are increasingly exposed to risk despite having limited control over upstream processes.
FIS continues to highlight the need for clearer guidance and better alignment between design responsibility, product specification and installation requirements. Members are reminded that Build UK’s Gateway Two guidance clearly sets out the information required for applications relating to both new and existing Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), and early awareness can help avoid costly delays.
New Fire Safety Regulations – PEEPs from April 2026
The Government has also published guidance to support the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations, which will come into force on 6 April 2026.
The regulations require Responsible Persons to develop and implement Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) for residents who may need assistance in an emergency. This applies to:
- All high-rise residential buildings, and
- Medium-rise buildings where an evacuation strategy is in place.
For the finishes and interiors sector, this has implications for design coordination, fire compartmentation, door sets, signage, and other life safety systems that form part of the internal fit-out. FIS will continue to review the guidance and highlight any practical implications for members involved in residential work.
New Government Communications on Building Safety
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has announced the launch of a quarterly Building Safety Newsletter, which will provide updates on legislation, guidance and remediation progress. Members can sign up to receive the newsletter directly and stay informed as the regulatory framework continues to evolve.
Call for Experts – Construction Products Regulation
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), now the national regulator for construction products, is seeking experts to join its Register of Specialists. The register will be used to commission ad-hoc scientific and technical work to support regulatory activity.
Professionals with expertise in:
- Fire science
- Materials science
- Civil and structural engineering
- Related technical disciplines
are encouraged to apply. This is a valuable opportunity for experienced specialists within the finishes and interiors supply chain to contribute directly to shaping product regulation and enforcement.
FIS Support
FIS continues to engage directly with regulators, government departments and industry partners to ensure that the voice of specialist contractors is heard. We recognise that regulatory delays, unclear guidance and shifting responsibilities place disproportionate pressure on the fit-out sector.
Members with concerns relating to Gateway approvals, documentation requirements, or the practical application of new building safety guidance are encouraged to contact the FIS technical team for support.