FIS has launched a new e-learning module, Building Regulation Compliance: Contractor Roles, designed to help construction professionals understand and meet their responsibilities under the latest regulatory changes.

Our new competency-led e-learning module provides clear, practical guidance on what compliance really means and how it applies to you. It has been designed for directors, managers, and senior leaders within contracting organisations, while also offering valuable insight for project teams and supervisors responsible for maintaining standards on the ground.

Challenging misconceptions and clarifying responsibilities

A key focus of the course is addressing a widespread misconception across the industry that roles such as Principal Contractor and Contractor apply only to Higher Risk Buildings. In reality, these roles are mandatory across all regulated works, making a clear understanding of responsibilities essential for compliance.

The course breaks down these requirements in a straightforward, accessible way, helping contractors understand exactly where they fit within the regulatory framework and what is expected of them.

Practical, competency-led learning

Developed through our close collaboration with members and industry experts, the module is built around real-world application. It aims to demystify complex regulatory requirements and support organisations in embedding best practice.

Designed primarily for directors, managers, and senior leaders within contracting organisations, the course is also highly relevant for project teams and supervisors responsible for maintaining standards on site.

Learners who enrol will:

• Build confidence in the requirements of the new regulations

• Drive their understanding of the Building Control process

• Strengthen their organisation’s competence and capability

• Gain CPD points to support their professional development

Supporting a culture of competence and compliance

Competence sits at the heart of compliance and understanding how regulations apply at both an individual and organisational level is critical to managing risk and delivering safe, high-quality projects.

This new module forms part of our ongoing commitment to support the sector through regulatory change, providing timely, practical training that reflects the realities faced by contractors today.

Members can access the e-learning for free here. The courses are available to non-members for a fee. Visit the FIS Academy here.

From 1 July 2026 a new building safety regime will come into force in Wales, introducing fundamental changes to how building work is regulated, approved and enforced. While closely aligned with the principles of the Building Safety Act 2022 introduced in England, the Welsh system is not identical and will operate through different regulators, processes and documentation requirements.  To support members in understanding and preparing for these changes, FIS has launched a short, targeted e-learning module: The Building Safety Act Wales 2026.

What is changing in Wales?

Wales is introducing a dutyholder‑led regulatory framework that applies to all regulated building work, with additional and more stringent requirements for higher‑risk buildings (HRBs). The system has strong parallels with the English regime, but there are important practical differences that contractors, designers and specialists need to understand.

Key features of the Welsh regime include:

• a dutyholder framework similar to England, applying to clients, designers, contractors, principal designers and principal contractors
• mandatory competence requirements for individuals and organisations carrying out design or building work
• replacement of the traditional “deposit of plans” system with a new application‑based building control approval process
• strengthened enforcement powers, including compliance notices, stop notices and extended enforcement periods
• a separate staged approval system for higher‑risk buildings, administered through local authority building control rather than a Building Safety Regulator

A significant difference is that Wales has not created a standalone Building Safety Regulator. Higher‑risk buildings and enforcement remain within the jurisdiction of local authority building control, with different approval routes, statutory declarations and appeal mechanisms to those used in England.  Additionally the Welsh regime:

• uses staged approvals rather than England’s gateway process
• defines higher‑risk buildings more broadly, capturing buildings with at least one residential unit as well as hospitals and care homes with overnight stays
• requires specific prescribed documents, including competence declarations, construction control plans, change control plans and golden thread information
• introduces formal change‑control categories for HRBs, with major changes requiring fresh approval before work can proceed

Understanding these changes and the distinctions will be essential to helping avoid delays, rework, rejected submissions or enforcement action once the new regime is live.

What the FIS Wales 2026 module covers

The new FIS training module draws out the differences in Wales and is targeted at those who have already completed the Introduction to the Building Safety Act and now need to understand how the Welsh system works.

The module provides: 

• a clear explanation of how the Welsh building safety regime has evolved
• an overview of the dutyholder and competence requirements applying from July 2026
• practical guidance on the new building control approval process
• detailed insight into higher‑risk building procedures, staged approvals and prescribed information
• clarity on enforcement powers and what they mean in practice
• a plain‑English explanation of transitional arrangements for projects already underway

Preparing for July 2026

Transitional provisions mean that some projects already in the system before 1 July 2026 will continue under the current arrangements. However, any project that has not deposited full plans or secured acceptance of an initial notice by that date will need to comply with the new Welsh regime from the outset.  With increased emphasis on competence, accountability and documented compliance, now is the right time for organisations to ensure their teams understand how the Welsh system operates.

FIS remains committed to supporting the finishes and interiors sector through the biggest regulatory change in a generation. Alongside this new Wales‑specific module, FIS continues to provide guidance, training and practical tools to help members manage risk, improve safety and remain compliant.

To access the course, visit the FIS E-Learning Academy.  For any questions about the regulations contact the FIS team at info@thefis.org or 0121 707 0077.

The energy market continues to present challenges for businesses across the UK, and for companies operating within the finishes and interiors sector, controlling overheads remains as important as ever. With wholesale prices still reacting to global events, changing demand levels, weather patterns, network costs and policy updates, energy procurement is no longer something businesses can afford to leave on autopilot.

For FIS members, having the right strategy in place can make a significant difference to both short-term costs and long-term stability. That’s where Enexus Energy can help. As part of your FIS membership, you have access to expert support designed to help you better understand the market, review your current contracts, and identify opportunities to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

Whether you’re approaching renewal, unsure if your current rates remain competitive, or simply want clearer visibility over your utilities spend, Enexus can provide independent guidance tailored to your business needs. They will work with you to simplify what can often be a complex market, helping you make informed decisions with confidence.

Support can include:
* Reviewing current electricity and gas contracts
* Benchmarking rates against the wider market
* Procurement support and renewal strategy
* Invoice validation and billing support
* Identifying energy-saving opportunities
* Guidance on sustainability and future planning

In a market that remains uncertain, having a trusted energy consultant on your side can provide reassurance and real value. If you’re an FIS member and would like to explore how Enexus can support your business, get in touch with the Enexus Energy team today.

Andy Radcliffe
FIS Energy Expert
01253 966964
Andy.radcliffe@enexusen

FIS, as an active member of the Construction Industry Collective Voice, is encouraging members to take part in a unique opportunity to directly influence future National Minimum Wage policy.

Following ongoing engagement through the CICV Skills & Employment Group, FIS has been involved in discussions with the Low Pay Commission regarding the pace and scale of recent National Minimum Wage increases and the impact this is having on the sector, particularly in relation to the affordability of apprenticeships.

As a direct result of this engagement, the Low Pay Commission has invited trade body members to attend a series of small, employer-led workgroup sessions to help shape future policy decisions.

Workgroup Details:

• Dates: 13–14 May 2026
• Location: Aberdeen (venue and timings to be confirmed)
• Format: Small groups of up to six employers
• Duration: 1 hour sessions

These sessions are invitation-only and offer a rare opportunity for employers to:

• Share real-world insight on wage pressures
• Highlight challenges around recruitment and apprenticeships
• Help influence future Government thinking

Have Your Say

FIS is now gathering interest from members who would like to participate.

If you would like to be considered for a place, please register your interest as soon as possible. Places are limited and will be allocated based on availability.

Contact FIS to express your interest

This is a valuable opportunity to ensure the voice of the finishes and interiors sector is heard at a national level, and to help shape policies that directly impact your business and workforce.