The Building Safety Levy is a government charge for some new residential developments in England.
It helps fund work to fix historical building safety defects in existing residential buildings.
The levy applies from 1 October 2026 and is collected through the building regulations process.
Developments covered by the levy
The levy applies to some residential developments, including:
- new houses and flats
- residential conversions that create new homes
- purpose-built student accommodation
- some mixed-use developments that include homes
Levy charges
The amount you pay depends on:
- where the development is located
- the type of development
- the number of homes or bedspaces being created
Reduced rates can apply to previously developed land (brownfield land).
Exemptions and reliefs
Some developments qualify for exemptions or reduced charges.
This includes certain affordable housing developments and other categories set out in Building Safety Levy regulations and government guidance.
Whether your development qualifies depends on the details of the scheme and the evidence you provide.
Other development charges
The Building Safety Levy is separate from:
- planning application fees
- Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL)
- section 106 obligations
- building control charges
Paying one charge does not remove the need to pay another.
Levy information requirements
You must provide the required levy information during the building control process.
Failure to provide this information can result in:
- delays to your application
- rejected submissions
- difficulties getting a completion certificate
Advice and support
Our building control team can help you understand how the levy affects your development.
We can help you understand:
- levy charges
- exemptions
- what you need to do to meet levy requirements
Email bcontrol@ealing.gov.uk
Contact us before sending your application if you need advice about how the levy applies to your development.
Important information
Building Safety Levy requirements are set by legislation and government guidance.
The amount you pay and any exemptions available depend on the details of your development.
You should seek professional advice for development-specific requirements.