The Building Safety Act and the Golden Thread: A Practical Guide

The Building Safety Act 2022 is the most significant piece of building safety legislation in a generation. It creates a new regulatory framework for higher-risk buildings and introduces the concept of the Golden Thread of building information.

The Golden Thread is a digital record of building information that allows someone to understand a building’s design, construction, and ongoing management. It must be accurate, accessible, and kept up to date throughout the building’s lifecycle.

For higher-risk buildings, the Principal Accountable Person must register the building with the Building Safety Regulator, prepare a Building Safety Case, and apply for a Building Assessment Certificate.

Key practical steps include: auditing existing building information, establishing digital systems for information management, appointing competent persons to manage building safety, engaging with residents on safety matters, and preparing for Building Safety Regulator inspections.

Custodia is designed from the ground up to support Golden Thread requirements, with per-building compliance profiles, comprehensive document management, and complete audit trails.