The UK government has announced a series of measures aimed at strengthening building safety standards and professional training across the construction and fire and rescue sectors. These initiatives respond directly to the findings of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, seeking to restore public trust and ensure safer homes for all.
Building safety reforms following Grenfell
The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, a devastating event that claimed 72 lives, highlighted critical failures in building safety regulation and oversight. In response, the government is committed to implementing robust reforms to prevent such tragedies from recurring. Central to this commitment is the development of a consistent and accountable building safety system that prioritises residents’ safety.
One of the key steps is the launch of a Call for Evidence to inform a new Building Professions Strategy. This strategy will examine the roles and responsibilities of all professionals involved in the building process—from designers to contractors—ensuring that everyone is equipped with the necessary skills, experience, and accountability to deliver safe and sustainable buildings. The government plans to publish this strategy in 2027, providing a clear framework to support a competent and responsible workforce.
Enhancing fire and rescue professionalism
Alongside building safety reforms, the government has initiated the first phase of establishing a new college of fire and rescue. This institution aims to raise professionalism and skill levels among fire and rescue leaders and firefighters nationwide. By improving consistency in standards and broadening access to best practices, the college will help deliver a more efficient and effective service to the public.
A consultation launched on 20 May 2026 invites input from both the sector and the public to shape the design of this college, ensuring it meets the needs of those it serves.
Government commitment and further measures
Samantha Dixon MBE MP, Minister for Building Safety, Fire and Democracy, emphasised the government’s dedication to learning from the Grenfell tragedy. She stated: “The Grenfell tragedy should never have happened, and we remain committed to learning and acting on its failings. High standards, responsibility and safety must underpin the whole building process, upheld by everyone across the profession. The measures announced today are an important step to cementing these standards and delivering on our commitment of safe homes fit for the future.”
Further government action includes plans to reform the building control system in partnership with the sector. This reform aims to protect future growth while maintaining high standards, following recommendations from the Building Control Independent Panel. Additionally, a Public Engagement Policy has been introduced advising ministers and senior civil servants to avoid attending certain public events involving the seven companies most criticised in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report, except for very specific reasons.
Progress on remediation and inquiry recommendations
Earlier in May 2026, the King’s Speech confirmed the introduction of a Remediation Bill designed to accelerate the removal of unsafe cladding from buildings. This legislation seeks to eliminate barriers to remediation, enabling faster repairs and enhancing residents’ safety and confidence in their homes.
The government has also published its latest quarterly progress report on the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, confirming the closure of nine additional recommendations related to the construction industry and emergency response. This brings the total number of completed recommendations to 21, reflecting ongoing efforts to deliver safer homes and lasting change in collaboration with local communities, industry stakeholders, and local authorities.
What this means for landlords
For landlords and property managers, these developments signal a future with more stringent building safety standards and clearer accountability across the construction and maintenance process. The forthcoming Building Professions Strategy will clarify the qualifications and responsibilities expected of professionals involved in property development and upkeep, potentially affecting procurement and compliance practices.
Moreover, the Remediation Bill promises to expedite the resolution of cladding issues, which have been a significant concern for landlords of multi-storey residential buildings. Staying informed about these legislative changes will be essential for landlords to ensure their properties meet evolving safety requirements and to reassure tenants about the safety of their homes.
Source: Based on reporting from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
TLA Training Academy
The Landlord Association has launched its new Training Academy for UK landlords, providing structured guidance, compliance education, and practical knowledge to support landlords at every stage. Members can now complete the programme and become TLA Certified Landlords at no additional cost as part of their membership.
Landlords can explore the Academy here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/tla-academy/
Those looking to join and access the full training and certification can register here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/landlord-association-membership-uk/
TLA update
The Landlord Association is currently onboarding new service providers into its Trusted Partner Hub, a new initiative designed to support landlords, tenants, letting agents, and property managers with vetted, high-quality services. As one of the fastest growing landlord associations in the UK, TLA offers partners direct access to an engaged and active member base at the point of need. Service providers across legal, maintenance, insurance, finance, mortgages, tenant screening, and property services can register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/
Source: www.gov.uk
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