Roofing and Higher Risk Buildings: Is Your Roof Impacted by the Change in Legislation?

If you own or manage a property in Manchester, keeping up with new building safety laws is crucial—especially when it comes to roofing. Recent legislation has changed the way roof works are approved on higher-risk buildings, and the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) now plays a central role in overseeing roofing projects.

For anyone searching for trusted roofers in Manchester, it’s important to understand how these changes affect your roofing project, whether you’re repairing, replacing, or upgrading your roof. This guide explains the new process, how to check if your property is classed as a higher-risk building, and tips for ensuring your roofing application is successful.

The Building Safety Act (2022) introduced stricter rules around higher-risk buildings (HRBs) in England. From 2023, roofing projects on these buildings must follow a more detailed approval process.

Key changes include:

• Roofing works on HRBs must now go through the Building Safety Regulator instead of standard local building control.
• Detailed safety information—covering fire performance, structural stability, and materials—must be included in applications.
• All works must be assessed at Gateway stages, meaning projects take longer to approve.

For property managers and owners in Manchester, this means roofing works can no longer be treated as simple maintenance tasks. Even minor roof repairs may require BSR approval.

The Building Safety Regulator, operated by the Health and Safety Executive, now oversees roofing and other works on HRBs. Their role is to:

• Ensure roofing safety – reviewing designs for fire safety and structural soundness.
• Approve or reject roofing applications – only compliant designs can move forward.
• Enforce standards – issuing stop notices if roofing works begin without approval.

If you’re planning roofing in Manchester on a tall residential block, care home, or hospital, you’ll need to work with contractors who understand the regulator’s requirements.

Not every building falls under the new HRB rules. A property is considered “higher risk” if it meets these criteria:

• It is 18 metres tall or has at least seven storeys; and
• It contains two or more residential units.
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This definition mainly covers high-rise residential blocks, but some care facilities and hospitals in Manchester also fall within scope.

If your building does not meet these criteria, roofing works still require approval, but the HRB application process will not apply. It is also advisable to maintain up to date with the categorisation of higher risk buildings in case there are changes to the legislation in the future.

Tips for a smooth application

For property managers, developers, and landlords in Manchester, here’s how to optimise your application and reduce delays:

1. Start the Process Early

BSR approvals can take longer than traditional building control. Factor this into project planning, especially if your roof needs urgent work due to leaks or storm damage.

2. Use Experienced Roofers in Manchester

Choose a local contractor familiar with HRB regulations. Reputable Manchester roofers will know what documents to provide and how to prepare applications that meet BSR requirements.

3. Provide Detailed Roofing Plans

Your application should clearly show:

• Roofing system type
• Fire performance of all materials
• Load-bearing calculations
• Details of drainage and insulation
• How the roof connects to fire barriers

4. Consult With Residents

Under the new system, residents must be kept informed about roofing projects. Engaging them early can help avoid complaints and delays.



5. Keep Comprehensive Records

Every material specification, design document, and inspection report should be saved. The regulator can request evidence at any time.

Before starting your roofing project, ask yourself:

• Does my property meet the HRB definition?
• Is the roof replacement or repair classed as “building work” requiring approval?
• Have I allowed enough time and budget for regulator approvals?
• Am I working with a roofing company in Manchester experienced in higher-risk building applications?

The Building Safety Regulator has changed how roofing projects are carried out on higher-risk buildings across the UK. For Manchester property owners and managers, this means more planning, more documentation, and a greater focus on safety.

For more help and advice for your roofing work, call our team today!