CIH welcomes the first annual report on the implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations

On 25 February, the government published its first annual report on the implementation of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations, alongside the Construction Products Reform White Paper and consultation on a new General Safety Requirement. Together, the publications mark an important milestone in the long-term reform of the building safety system. 

CIH welcomes the publication of the first annual report on progress against the Phase 2 recommendations and the continued transparency it provides. The government has reiterated its commitment to implementing all 58 recommendations, and it is clear that delivering the level of systemic change required will take time.  

The White Paper closes a long-standing gap by introducing a statutory General Safety Requirement for all construction products. Stronger duties regarding safety assessment, traceability, and enforcement should help address the failings identified in testing and regulatory oversight. 

Our response to the Construction Products Reform Green Paper in 2025 clearly supported reform, whilst recommending that regulatory change be accompanied by cultural and professional accountability throughout the product lifecycle. This is something we have been clear about in our wider work on building safety, highlighting the importance of transparency, workforce competence, regulatory clarity, and a resident-centred approach.  We now call on the government to ensure that continued reform of construction products aligns with the Building Safety Act and wider social housing regulations, so the system works as a whole. 

We also welcome the progress made in removing and replacing unsafe ACM cladding – the same type used on Grenfell Tower. However, as we have previously highlighted, this is a complex process that requires sustained resources and accountability.  

The ministerial statement also confirmed that the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, which introduce requirements for Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (R-PEEPs), will come into effect this April. CIH has published a ‘What You Need to Know’ guide to help members understand and prepare for these requirements. 

The announcement also introduced the Grenfell Tower Memorial (Expenditure) Bill to support the creation and long-term management of a memorial, archive and permanent exhibition as a key step in remembering the 72 people who lost their lives.  We acknowledge that the ongoing criminal investigation into the fire is understandably painful and complex, and that discussions about regulatory reform must recognise the continued human impact of the tragedy.  

Above all, the legacy of Grenfell must be a system that places residents’ safety at its centre. Whilst we have consistently supported regulatory reform, we are also clear that this must be accompanied by cultural change, professional competence, and meaningful resident engagement. We will continue to work with the government, regulators, and our members to support implementation that offers all residents a safe place to live.