On 30 September 2026, amendments to Approved Document B introduced updated guidance (subject to transitional arrangements) for existing projects,for a second staircase in new blocks of flats with a top storey of 18 metres or more, a minimum common stair width of 1100mm at that height, restructured escape guidance, and new provisions supporting evacuation lifts. These read as technical design changes, but they arrive within a building safety regime that looks very different from just a few years ago: defined dutyholder responsibilities, competence requirements, the golden thread, residential evacuation plan duties (including Residential PEEPs) and the Building Safety Regulator, now a standalone body. The principle running through all of this is that it is no longer enough to believe the right decisions were made; you must evidence who made them, on what information, and why. For organisations, the gap between “we thought we were compliant” and “we can demonstrate why we were compliant” can be significant.
Shared for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is recommended that specific professional advice is sought before acting on any of the information given. Please contact us for specific advice on your circumstances.