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As the interior fit out construction industry continues to evolve, two significant changes loom large, poised to have a profound impact on the sector. These changes revolve around the implementation of the Building Safety Act and the expanding role of distributors in supporting customers and their projects.
Building Safety Act: A New Era in Construction Regulations
The Building Safety Act, established in response to the tragic Grenfell Tower fire in London, received Royal Assent on 28th April 2022. This groundbreaking legislation sets the stage for a redefined construction landscape, introducing a series of regulatory changes aimed at enhancing building safety. Key features include the establishment of a Building Safety Regulator, new construction product standards, and a mandate for buildings to maintain a digital record encompassing their design, construction, and maintenance.
This pivotal legislation is expected to significantly impact the interior fit out construction sector, particularly concerning material selection, fire safety, and the competency of individuals involved in designing, procuring, managing, and installing these materials. Consequently, contractors will increasingly rely on the technical expertise of their supply chain partners to navigate these critical decisions.
Distributors' Role in Supporting Construction Evolution
Gerard Abbott-Drake, Director and Co-owner at Go Interiors, emphasizes the importance of this changing landscape: "Due to the regulatory changes brought on by the Building Safety Act, contractors will need to rely on the support and technical expertise of their supply chain partners to make the right choices in material selection."
Gerard Abbott-Drake, Business Owner and Director
Furthermore, Ian McIlwee, CEO of the Finishes and Interiors Sector Trade Association, highlights the need for sector-wide comprehension: "The Building Safety Act heralds the biggest change to the Building Regulations in modern times. It is concerning that vast swathes of our sector have not fully comprehended the significance."
Iain McIlwee, CEO at the Finishes and Interiors Sector
Embracing Collaboration and Integration
In conclusion, the interior fit-out construction sector is undergoing a period of rapid transformation, driven by various factors such as the demand for sustainable and personalized design, heightened safety standards, and the significance of collaboration and integration.
Collaborating with distributors like Go Interiors can provide contractors with the necessary technical expertise for informed decisions about material selection and fire safety, ensuring compliance with new regulations and successful project outcomes.
Working Together
The collaborative efforts of the construction supply chain are pivotal in steering the industry towards a beneficial evolution for all involved.
For further insights into the Building Safety Act, the Finishes and Interiors Sector Trade Association offers an introduction, serving as the representative body for the UK's £10 billion finishes and interiors sector. To explore how Go Interiors can assist with material selection and project support, reach out to our knowledgeable team.
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For further reading, click here for an introduction to the Building Safety Act from the Finishes and Interiors Sector Trade Association – the representative body for the £10 billion finishes and interiors sector in the UK.
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To learn more about how Go Interiors can help with material selection and project support, get in touch with a member of our friendly and knowledgeable team.