Fire-rated glazing in higher-risk buildings: what changes under the Building Safety Act?

In England, higher-risk buildings, broadly those at least 18 metres or seven storeys tall with at least two residential units, have the Building Safety Regulator as their building control authority. Glazing work that counts as building work in these buildings needs approval before it starts, with full product evidence, and changes must go through formal change control.

New buildings

Design approval at Gateway 2 needs the fire glazing specification and evidence. Swapping products later is a controlled change, so specify tested systems early.

Existing buildings

Building work in an existing higher-risk building also generally needs the Regulator's approval. Like-for-like repairs may be treated differently; check before assuming.

Golden thread

Information about fire-resisting glazing forms part of the building's safety information. Clear schedules and evidence references help duty holders keep it accurate.

Updated 09/10/2026. General guidance only; your fire strategy, designer and building control body decide what applies to a specific building.