A fast‑moving regulatory landscape
Eight years on from the Grenfell Tower tragedy, and whilst fire safety has definitely moved up the agenda, the Government’s Construction Products Reform Green Paper reveals nearly two-thirds of construction products on the market are still unregulated.
To address this, the paper proposes the introduction of a digital “product passport” system, and enhanced enforcement powers, including significant financial penalties for non-compliance.
This level of reform signals a shift away from reactive regulation. Going forward, product traceability, performance data, and safety evidence will be expected as standard — not as a retrofit.
Modern Methods of Construction (MMC): Innovation meets accountability
This push for reform coincides with the continued rise of Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), which offers the potential for faster, greener, and more efficient project delivery. However, innovation must be matched by certainty in fire performance. The National Fire Chiefs Council has continued to express caution about the fire safety of certain modular and engineered timber systems. They rightly argue that new materials must demonstrate fire resistance through evidence-based testing before being deployed at scale.
To support the safe delivery of MMC projects, PAS 8700:2025 was introduced earlier this year. This new standard provides guidance for integrating fire safety into the design and delivery of MMC-based residential buildings. It promotes a life-cycle approach, ensuring that fire risk is considered from the outset and addressed collaboratively by competent stakeholders throughout.
The message is clear: MMC is welcome, but every new material or assembly must earn its place through evidence‑based fire testing and certification.
A stronger Building Safety Regulator
Regulation only works if it is enforced, and regulatory oversight is also evolving. In June, Ministers announced a major overhaul of The Building Safety Regulator (BSR). The appointment of experienced fire service leaders Andy Roe (non-executive chair) and Charlie Pugsley (chief executive), shows that the BSR is moving from policy design to practical enforcement.
Over 100 new inspectors are being deployed, and a new “Fast-Track” pathway is being introduced to expedite approvals for well-prepared projects. This signals a strong intent: only those who can demonstrate clear, early-stage compliance will move forward without delay.
What this means for duty‑holders and responsible persons
From March 2025 the latest amendments to Approved Document B came into effect, layering new technical nuances—particularly around external wall fire‑spreading—onto an already dense rulebook. When combined with the forthcoming product passport scheme and BSR Fast‑Track process, designers, contractors and building owners face:
- Earlier fire‑strategy engagement – Fire considerations must be proven at concept design, especially for MMC.
- Traceability by default – Expect digital evidence of product provenance at handover.
- Heightened competence expectations – Only firms that can demonstrate accredited expertise and up‑to‑date knowledge will satisfy regulators and insurers alike.
For developers, property owners, and duty holders, these changes raise the bar. Fire safety must be embedded early in the design phase, underpinned by documented product performance, and delivered by proven, competent professionals. The focus is no longer just on compliance at handover — but on delivering transparent, auditable fire safety throughout the entire building lifecycle.
How Commercial Fire Protection keeps you ahead
That’s why Commercial Fire Protection is proud to act as a trusted compliance partner— helping safeguard people, property and assets at every stage of the fire safety journey.
Our multi-disciplinary team of fire strategists, passive protection specialists and assessors brings over 40 years of experience, providing commercial buildings with a single, accountable point of contact. We cover all key areas from Fire Strategy development, where we create tailored, code-compliant plans that support design, use and regulatory approval, to Fire Emergency Evacuation Plans (FEEP) that set out clear, building-specific procedures to ensure safe, efficient evacuation for all occupants. We also deliver comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments (FRA), passive protection (including fire stopping, fire doors and compartmentation) and active systems such as alarms, extinguishers and sprinklers.
We deliver certificated works, including BM TRADA Q-Mark fire stopping, certified fire door installation, and maintenance that withstand the most rigorous enforcement standards. Our solutions are not only compliant but practical — integrating seamlessly with fast-paced construction programmes, live environments, and complex stakeholder requirements.
As MMC continues to evolve, legacy assets are refurbished, and regulators increase enforcement, expectations on fire safety partners will only grow. Today’s challenge is not just meeting minimum standards — it’s delivering clarity, traceability, and confidence at every step.
Now is the time for those responsible for commercial buildings to re-evaluate their fire strategy, review material choices, and engage with partners who can reduce risk and future-proof compliance.
At Commercial Fire Protection, that’s exactly what we offer — helping our clients build smarter, safer and with complete peace of mind.
Need guidance on the new rules or an urgent fire strategy review? Talk to the Commercial Fire Protection team.
