Information and advice

Building Safety Levy

The Building Safety Levy is a tax on certain new residential buildings from 1 October 2026.

The Levy will be collected by councils on behalf of Central Government. The income raised will contribute to fixing building safety defects across England.

The Levy applies to all residential development, unless an exemption applies.

From 1 October 2026, Building Control applications and Building Control notice applications must include information in relation to the Levy. If the information is not provided, the application may be rejected.

The Levy is calculated once information has been supplied at the commencement notice stage. Payment must be made prior to occupation or completion.

Failure to pay the Levy will mean our Building Control Team will withhold the Building Control completion certificate or reject the final certificate.
 

When the levy applies

The Levy is generally payable on larger residential developments for:

• 10 or more new homes
• New residential floor space or an increase existing residential floor space
• 30 or more bedspaces in purpose-built student accommodation.
   

Exemptions

These include:

• Affordable housing
• Supported housing
• Housing built by non‑profit registered providers and their wholly‑owned subsidiaries
• Care homes
• Schools
• Hospitals
• Hotels and hostels
• Temporary accommodation for homeless people

You will need to provide supporting evidence if you believe your development is exempt.
 

Building Safety Levy rates

The rates for the Sevenoaks District are:

• Previously developed land: £21.08 per square metre
• Non-developed land: £42.15 per square metre

Developers may request a review of the Levy charge or refund decision within 28 days. If still in dispute, they may appeal to the First Tier Tribunal.
 

Further information about the Building Safety Levy

• Government Building Safety Levy Guidance
• The Building Safety Levy (England) Regulations 2025
   

Advice for homeowners

Find out if you need building control approval for loft conversions, extensions and electrical works and how to get started on your building project, commonly asked questions and more.

LABC advice for homeowners

The Government has published ‘Approved Documents’ guides to help you meet building regulations.

Building Regulation guidance

These ensure new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions are safe, healthy and energy efficient.