Why the Building Safety Levy matters 

Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy and subsequent safety reviews, the UK government introduced measures to improve building safety standards. One of these measures is the Building Safety Levy, designed to fund the remediation of unsafe cladding and other high-risk features in residential buildings. 

It’s aimed at ensuring that residents live in safe buildings while holding developers accountable for construction issues. Understanding the levy is important for property buyers, homeowners, and developers, as it can influence costs and property values. 

Who pays the levy 

The levy is primarily applied to developers of residential buildings over 11 metres (roughly 4 storeys) or with multiple flats. Developers are expected to contribute to a fund that covers the costs of removing unsafe cladding and implementing necessary fire safety improvements. 

For homeowners, the levy may indirectly affect service charges or the cost of new builds, but it should reduce the risk of passing remediation costs onto residents in the long run. 

Impact on developers and buyers 

• Developers: The levy adds additional costs to construction projects, encouraging them to prioritise safe building practices and thorough compliance checks. 

• Buyers: While new-build prices could see a slight adjustment, the levy offers reassurance that safety standards are being enforced and that residents aren’t left footing enormous remediation bills. 

Looking ahead 

The Building Safety Levy is part of a wider Building Safety Act framework. It is designed to fund safety improvements and ensure accountability, potentially transforming how high-rise residential properties are constructed and maintained in England. 

Homebuyers and investors should stay informed about levy implications, particularly for multi-storey buildings, as this will affect both value and safety considerations. 

Want to understand how the Building Safety Levy could affect your property or development project?  

to hide. For compliant landlords, it levels the playing field. For tenants, it raises the quality bar.

Contact us today for expert guidance and up-to-date insights