Plain-English guides to BSR approval for flat works
Refurbishing a flat in a high-rise block in England? If the building is higher-risk, most building work needs approval from the Building Safety Regulator before it starts. These guides explain the rules, the timelines and what to check first.
Not sure whether your project needs BSR approval?Answer a few questions about your building and your planned work and get a PDF report on whether Building Safety Regulator approval is likely to be needed.
Start the BSR screenerGuides
- Do I need BSR approval to refurbish a flat in a high-rise block?
If your block is a higher-risk building, most flat refurbishment work needs Building Safety Regulator approval before it starts. What triggers it, what's exempt and how long it takes.
- What is a higher-risk building?
In England, a higher-risk building is at least 18 metres or 7 storeys with two or more homes. See how it's measured and how to check yours.
- Can I remove or move a wall in a high-rise flat?
Changing the internal layout of a flat in a higher-risk building usually needs BSR approval first. Here is what counts and what to do before you start.
- Do I need approval to replace my flat entrance door or windows?
Replacing a flat entrance door or windows in a higher-risk building may need BSR approval. See what GOV.UK exempts and what to check first.
- How long does BSR approval take?
The BSR has up to 8 weeks to assess work to an existing higher-risk building, unless extended. See what affects the timeline and how to plan.
- What happens if I start work without BSR approval?
Starting building work on a higher-risk building without BSR approval is a criminal offence. What the rules say, and the emergency repair exception.
- Lease consent, freeholder consent and BSR approval: what is the difference?
Your freeholder's consent, planning permission and BSR approval are separate. Here is what each covers and the order to sort them out.
- How do I find out whether my building is higher-risk?
Search the BSR's public register by postcode, ask your managing agent, and learn what to do if your building is not listed.
- Which professionals do I need for a BSR application?
The client, principal designer and principal contractor roles in a BSR application, the documents needed, and what to check before you hire.
- Replacing Windows in a High-Rise Flat: Why the FENSA Route Doesn't Work, and What 2026 Might Change
Why FENSA self-certification doesn't work for windows in flats over 18 metres, what that means for BSR approval, and what the 2026 reforms might change.