The Building Safety Levy is a charge that developers must pay on certain building control applications for new residential development from 1 October 2026.

Regulations and guidance

The levy was introduced through the Building Safety Levy (England) Regulations 2025 and is collected by local authorities.

The levy applies to relevant building control applications that create at least one new home or bedspace in purpose-built student accommodation.

Applications must include the information required to assess the levy. If this information is missing, the application may be rejected.

Levy rates vary depending on the location of the development and whether it is being built on previously developed land.

Some types of development are exempt from the levy, including affordable housing, supported housing, and housing provided by registered non-profit providers. However, some exempt developments still require a formal application, so you should check the regulations carefully.

The levy charge is calculated by the local authority once the required information and supporting evidence have been submitted. Payment must be made before the development is occupied or completed, whichever comes first.

Developers who disagree with a levy charge or refund decision can request a review within 28 days. If they remain dissatisfied, they can appeal to the First-tier Tribunal.

Failure to pay the levy may result in the building control authority withholding a completion certificate or rejecting a final certificate.

Building safety levy application form

This form should be submitted when a building control application is made for building control approval with full plans, initial notices and higher-risk building applications.

Please complete the form using block capitals and return this to building.control@easthants.gov.uk.

Building safety levy processes