The Building Safety Levy is a national requirement introduced by the UK Government. Brent Council acts as the levy collection authority on behalf of the Government and must apply the regulations set out in national legislation.
The levy is part of the Government's programme to improve building safety. Money raised through the levy will help fund the remediation of building safety defects and support work to make affected buildings safer for residents.
When the levy applies
From 1 October 2026, the Building Safety Levy will apply to most new residential developments in England, unless an exemption applies.
The levy applies to:
- Building control full plans applications
- Initial notices
- Higher-risk building (HRB) applications
where works will create:
- at least one new dwelling, or
- bedspaces in purpose-built student accommodation.
Applications and notices must include the required levy information. If this information is missing, the application or notice may be rejected.
Developers will also need to provide additional levy information when submitting a commencement notice.
How the levy is calculated
The levy is charged based on the amount of residential floorspace created.
Levy rates vary depending on:
- the local authority area
- whether the development is on previously developed (brownfield) land.
Developments on previously developed land receive a 50% discount on the levy rate.
Exempt developments
The levy does not apply to:
- affordable housing
- supported housing
- housing delivered by non-profit registered providers and their wholly owned subsidiaries
- small developments creating fewer than 10 residential units
Other exemptions may apply. Please refer to the government regulations and guidance for full details.
Payment of the levy
Brent Council will calculate the levy charge after receiving the required levy information and supporting evidence.
The levy must be paid before the earlier of:
- occupation of the development, or
- completion of the works.
- Reviews and appeals
If a developer disagrees with the levy charge, a refund amount, or a decision not to issue a refund, they may request a review by Brent Council within 28 days of the decision. If they remain dissatisfied following the review, they may appeal to the First-tier Tribunal.
Failure to pay
Where the levy remains unpaid, the building control authority cannot issue a completion certificate, or a final certificate until the full levy amount has been paid.
Need help?
If you are planning a residential development in Brent and are unsure whether the Building Safety Levy applies to your project, please refer to the government Building Safety Levy Guidance before submitting your building control application.