The Association’s second annual survey, conducted in partnership with Barbour ABI, found that while 78% of respondents identified building safety as a top organisational priority, only half believed they had done enough to meet compliance requirements.

The report, Turning Awareness into Action, highlights persistent challenges across the sector, particularly among smaller firms. Just 39% of micro and small businesses were aware of the Act and its implications, and one in five respondents who were aware admitted they remained unclear about their legal responsibilities.

Respondents called for urgent improvements in guidance, training, and enforcement. Many criticised clients for prioritising cost and speed over safety, with several urging regulators to impose real penalties for non-compliance.

“Talk is cheap,” said Nick Mead, Technical Director at Laing O’Rourke and Chair of BESA’s Building Safety Act Advisory Group. “This is the biggest change to working practices in a generation, and paying lip service will not cut it. Everyone needs to play their part, and those who don’t will be left behind.”

Mead also warned against the misconception that the Act applies only to higher-risk buildings (HRBs):

“It applies to all of our work. Everything is changing, including Building Regulations and technical standards, and that has major implications for professional competence.”

The findings were unveiled at BESA’s annual conference and will inform the Association’s ongoing support for members and the wider sector. Resources are available via BESA’s Building Safety Hub, with further tools and a new Clients’ Guide to the Building Safety Act due later this year.

BESA is also collaborating with the Building Safety Regulator’s Industry Competence Steering Groups to develop sector-specific frameworks and address delays at planning gateways.

“While awareness of the Act is high across our membership, the research confirms a lack of consistent understanding of what’s needed in practice,” said Rachel Davidson, BESA’s Director of Specialist Knowledge. “SMEs in particular need clear, concise guidance and practical tools, such as templates, checklists, and phased roadmaps, to help them benchmark progress and manage resources.”

The full report is available to download now from the BESA website.