Since 1 October 2023, important changes to the Building Regulations 2010 have introduced clearer legal responsibilities for everyone involved in a construction project. Whether you are a client, designer or contractor, you are now formally recognised as a Dutyholder and must meet specific obligations for your building control application to be accepted and approved.
At KM Architects, we support clients and project teams in navigating these requirements, ensuring that projects are compliant from concept through to completion.
What Has Changed for Dutyholders?
The introduction of Part 2A – Dutyholders and Competence places greater emphasis on accountability, competence and coordination. If a building control application is submitted without the correct dutyholder information or declarations, it can be rejected or reverted to local authority control, causing delays and additional costs.
The regulations apply to all projects, including domestic work, and cover both Registered Building Control Approvers and Local Authority Building Control.
Identifying Your Dutyholder Role.
Every project must clearly identify who is acting in each role:
- Client – the person for whom the work is carried out
- Domestic Client – a client not acting in the course of a business
- Principal Designer – typically the lead designer coordinating design compliance
- Principal Contractor – the lead contractor managing construction compliance
- Designer and Contractor – anyone carrying out or managing design or building work
All dutyholders are legally required to share information and cooperate to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations.
Key Client Responsibilities
Clients must ensure that suitable arrangements are in place to plan, manage and monitor building work throughout the life of the project. This includes appointing competent designers and contractors, notifying Building Control of dutyholder appointments, and providing signed compliance declarations at completion.
Without these signed statements from the Client, Principal Designer and Principal Contractor, a Final Certificate cannot be issued.
The Role of the Principal Designer
The Principal Designer plays a critical compliance role. Their responsibilities include coordinating all design work, ensuring cooperation between designers, and confirming that the design meets Building Regulations before construction begins.
This is where early involvement from an experienced architectural practice is essential. KM Architects act as Principal Designer where required, guiding projects through regulatory requirements, liaising with contractors, and assisting clients with statutory submissions and declarations.
Construction Phase Duties
Principal Contractors and Contractors must manage and monitor building work on site, ensuring it follows compliant designs and that workers receive appropriate supervision and instruction. Any concerns regarding compliance or higher-risk work must be reported promptly.
Why Professional Guidance Matters
The dutyholder framework is designed to improve building safety and accountability—but it also adds complexity. Clear role definition, accurate
documentation and proactive coordination are now non-negotiable.
By working with KM Architects, clients gain peace of mind that their project is structured correctly from the outset, reducing risk, avoiding delays, and ensuring a smoother path to Building Control approval and final certification.