FIS has responded to the Government’s consultation on proportionality in the higher-risk building regime, backing the intent to reduce unnecessary bureaucracy, but warning that reforms must stay firmly focused on risk.
While supporting proposals to reclassify certain in-flat and small-scale work to Category B, FIS stresses that location is not a proxy for risk. Even minor works can have serious implications where they affect fire compartmentation, fire stopping, or structural elements.
The response highlights concern that proposed thresholds based on time and workforce could create loopholes, encouraging work to be split artificially and leading to inconsistent oversight. Instead, FIS is clear – classification must be driven by the nature and impact of the work itself and a focus on competence in delivery.
FIS also calls out a key gap in the proposals associated with mixed-use buildings where similar works in residential and commercial units risk being treated differently despite comparable safety implications.
Crucially, FIS warns that without clear, consolidated guidance for clients, reforms could increase confusion, misclassification and risk-averse behaviour rather than reduce burden. The response also raises a red flag on the “Golden Thread”, cautioning that reduced oversight must not lead to gaps in recording and managing safety-critical information.
FIS concludes that the proposals can deliver a better balance between proportionality and safety, but only if backed by clear definitions, practical guidance, and full recognition of both individual competence and organisational capability.
You ca read the full response here.