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This applies directly to your MEP supply chain. For safety-critical systems specifically- emergency lighting, automatic transfer switches- the standards bar is unambiguous. The secondary source of power for life safety plant must be managed by an automatic transfer switch( ATS) in compliance with BS EN 60947-6, and ATS devices should conform to BS EN 60947-6-1 and be based on switch technology( PC classification), rather than circuit breakers or contactors.
The ATS should be a single component with integrated controller from the same manufacturer. If you are using or specifying a manufacturer that is unable to offer irrefutable evidence of compliance to the relevant standards, you are falling short of your obligation as required by the BSA. Always ask for certificates of compliance and appropriate tests.
The Building Safety Levy is a new financial reality
From 1 October 2026, developers also face the Building Safety Levy. This is a charge on new residential building control applications that must be paid before completion or occupation. The levy applies to major residential developments of ten or more new dwellings, calculated per square metre of chargeable floorspace, with rates weighted by local average house prices.
Non-profit registered providers of social housing are exempt, as is social housing built by private developers under Section 106 obligations- but commercial developers working on market-sale residential schemes should factor levy costs into project financials now. Applications submitted before 1 October 2026 are not affected, but any resubmission after that date will be liable.
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