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Building Safety Regulator reviews Part K rules on stairs, guarding and glazing
The Building Safety Regulator has opened a 10-week call for evidence on Part K, the rules on stairs, handrails, guarding, windows and glazing that shape many London loft conversions.
The Building Safety Regulator has launched a call for evidence on Part K of the building regulations in England and its statutory guidance, Approved Document K. Part K covers protection from falling, collision and impact, including stairs, ladders, ramps, handrails, guarding, windows, doors, gates, glazing and vehicle barriers.
The regulator says it is more than 20 years since Part K had a substantial review. It wants to know where the current rules work well, where they need to be clearer or stronger, and where design and construction practice has moved on.
Not a rule change yet
The call for evidence does not propose any policy changes. The current requirements and guidance stay in place while the review runs. Any future changes would go out to further consultation.
Who can respond
The regulator wants to hear from designers, builders, building managers, researchers and members of the public who live in or use buildings. It runs for 10 weeks. The regulator, the housing ministry and the Health and Safety Executive have also published research on stair safety in homes and on guarding to prevent falls from windows.
For London homeowners adding a loft room, the stair and guarding rules are among the details Building Control checks.
Photo: Imad Clicks on Pexels.
Source: GOV.UK (2026-10-19). Checked 2026-10-28.
London Builders introduces homeowners to independent builders and does not carry out building work. This article is general information, not advice.