Since the introduction of the Building Safety Act 2022, the term “Safety Case Report” has gained significant attention—especially among Accountable Persons and building owners responsible for high-rise residential buildings (HRBs).
But what exactly makes a Safety Case Report good?
At Safe Track RM Ltd, we support organisations navigating this complex process, and we believe that a strong Safety Case Report does more than meet regulatory requirements—it builds confidence in the safety of your building for both residents and regulators.
Here’s what separates a good Safety Case Report from a box-ticking exercise:
1. Clarity and Structure
A good Safety Case Report is well-structured, easy to follow, and avoids technical jargon where possible. It should clearly explain:
- The building’s design and use
- Fire and structural risks
- Control measures in place
- How risks are managed, monitored, and reviewed
Tip: Think of it as a story—explain the “what, where, why, and how” of building safety.
2. Evidence-Based
Regulators don’t want assumptions—they want evidence. Your report should include:
- Up-to-date fire risk assessments
- Structural surveys
- Maintenance logs
- Resident engagement records
- Inspection records (e.g., lifts, alarms, doors)
Document what you do, and explain why it works.
3. Demonstrates Risk Understanding
A good report shows a clear understanding of the key fire and structural risks in your building—not just a list of hazards, but a realistic view of how they interact and the consequences if controls fail.
Risk isn’t eliminated—it’s managed. Demonstrate this understanding.
4. Reflects Resident Engagement
Resident involvement is a legal expectation under the new regime. A strong Safety Case Report includes:
- How residents are informed
- How their concerns are captured and addressed
- Examples of engagement (meetings, surveys, communications)
Residents aren’t just occupants—they’re stakeholders.
5. Supports the ‘Golden Thread’
The Safety Case Report should be part of the Golden Thread of information—not a standalone document. It should reference:
- Building Information Models (BIM)
- Fire strategy documents
- Operational manuals
- Safety file content
Consistency is key. A fragmented safety case undermines confidence.
6. Is Up-To-Date and Reviewed Regularly
Risks change. Occupancy, building condition, and regulations evolve. A good Safety Case Report includes:
- A review schedule
- Mechanisms for updates
- Responsibilities for maintenance and reassessment
Outdated information is a liability—not a defence.
7. Prepared by Competent People
It’s not just about filling in a template. The report should be developed or reviewed by people with:
- Building safety knowledge
- Risk management experience
- Technical competence in fire and structural safety
At Safe Track RM Ltd, our team includes fire safety specialists and compliance experts who ensure reports meet both legal and practical standards.
A good Safety Case Report tells a coherent, confident, and credible story about how you are managing building safety. It reassures residents and satisfies the Building Safety Regulator that you’ve done your homework—and are continually doing it.
It’s not about ticking a box—it’s about protecting lives.
If you’re unsure where to start, or need support reviewing or preparing your Safety Case Report, we’re here to help.
