The UK Government has announced no revision to the higher-risk building (HRB) definition, excluding care homes and hospitals from enhanced BSA oversight.. Exclusion from HRB Definition Causes Concern On December 17, 2025, the UK Government confirmed it would not revise the Building Safety Act 2022's definition of higher risk buildings (HRBs) to include existing care homes and hospitals. Despite their critical importance and occupant vulnerability, these vital facilities will continue to fall outside the enhanced oversight mechanisms of the Act, relying instead on the RRO. RICS Urges Future Inclusion The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) called for future inclusion, arguing that these buildings warrant the same rigorous safety oversight as other HRBs. This exclusion means that critical fire safety issues in care homes and hospitals will continue to be primarily governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, without the additional layer of scrutiny provided by the BSA. Heightened Risk for Vulnerable Occupants The decision raises questions about the long term fire safety of environments housing some of the most vulnerable populations. While the RRO is in place, the specific, proactive, and stringent requirements of the BSA for HRBs would arguably offer a higher level of protection, particularly concerning design, construction, and ongoing management. Specialised Fire Engineering for Healthcare Magnus Opifex Seven LTD specialises in fire engineering for complex buildings like healthcare facilities. Our experts can help care home and hospital operators exceed RRO requirements, implementing advanced fire safety strategies that mirror the rigorous standards of HRBs. Proactive fire engineering is essential to protect vulnerable lives, even where legislation falls short. Need Expert Fire Safety Advice? Magnus Opifex Seven LTD provides leading fire engineering, BSR Gateway 2 support, PAS 9980 appraisals, BESS fire safety, and healthcare fire strategy services across the UK. π Call: +44 7486 691724 βοΈ office@magnus opifex.co.uk Request a Free Consultation β