Principal accountable person

The Building Safety Act 2022, defines the principal accountable person for a higher-risk building as—

• (a) in relation to a building with one accountable person, that person;
• (b) in relation to a building with more than one accountable person, the accountable person who—

1. holds a legal estate in possession in the relevant parts of the structure and exterior of the building, or
2. is within section 72(1)(b) because of a relevant repairing obligation (within the meaning of that section) in relation to the relevant parts of the structure and exterior of the building.

In the context of the UK Building Safety Act, the Principal Accountable Person is an individual or entity designated with ultimate responsibility for the safety of a higher-risk building throughout its lifecycle. They oversee the implementation of safety measures, coordinate building safety management systems, and act as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities and occupants.

The Principal Accountable Person plays a pivotal role in ensuring compliance with building safety regulations, promoting transparency, and prioritising the safety and well-being of building occupants. This individual or entity holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with building safety regulations, coordinating safety management systems, and serving as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities and occupants.

The Accountable Person and the Principal Accountable Person cannot delegate their legal obligations to others.

Accountable Person and the Principal Accountable Person can employ an organisation or individual, like a managing agent, to carry out duties on their behalf. However, the accountability for making sure those duties are carried out and the liability for a building’s safety remains with the APs and PAP.

See also: Accountable person and Government guidance 'Safety in high-rise residential buildings: accountable persons'

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings

• Accountability.
• Accountable person.
• Building Safety Act 2022.
• CDM
• Duty holder.
• Fire.
• Government response to the Building a Safer Future consultation.
• Grenfell articles.
• Grenfell Tower Fire.
• Hackitt review of the building regulations and fire safety, final report.
• Health and safety file.
• Principal contractor.