Architecture Public knowledge base

Reviewed 25.10.2026England focus

Jasmine Gokmen
In forceFire & Building Safety

BSR: Gateway process for higher-risk buildings

Planning, construction and occupation checks

The Building Safety Regulator's three statutory gateways control planning, construction and occupation of higher-risk buildings.

Also known as: Building Safety Regulator, Gateway 1, Gateway 2, Gateway 3, BSR

Jurisdiction
England
Document type
Regulatory process
Edition
Building Safety Regulator process
Source updated
Not stated by publisher
Applies from
—
Topic
Fire & Building Safety

Key requirements

  • Gateway 1: planning stage, linked to the planning application and fire statement.
  • Gateway 2: building control approval before construction starts.
  • Gateway 3: completion certificate before residents can occupy.
  • Dutyholders must demonstrate compliance and manage design changes.
  • Occupying a new higher-risk building without Gateway 3 approval is an offence.

Performance at a glance

Gateway 1
Planning
Gateway 2
Before construction
Gateway 3
Before occupation

Applies to

New higher-risk buildings and certain work to existing higher-risk buildings in England.

Official source

Building Safety Regulator — Gateway three

Open official source

Related records

BSA 2022 · Building Safety Act 2022Part B · Fire safetyBS 9999 · Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings

Reviewed 25 October 2026. This summary is an editorial reference, not legal advice. Check the current official text and confirm the approach with building control before relying on it. Browse all 35 records.