The Building Safety Levy (BSL) is a Government charge on certain larger residential developments in England. The levy comes into effect on 1 October 2026 and is administered by the local authority.
Does the levy apply to my development?
The BSL may apply if your development includes:
- 10 or more dwellings
- 30 or more purpose-built student accommodation bedspaces
- New residential floorspace
- A conversion or change of use from a non-residential building to a major residential development
Developments that are exempt
The levy does not apply to:
- Social housing
- Supported housing
- Care homes
- Hospices and hospitals
- Hotels and hostels
- Schools
- Armed Forces accommodation
- Temporary accommodation for homeless people
- Accommodation for victims of domestic abuse
- Other specialist residential developments specified in legislation
Levy rates in Enfield
The levy is calculated using the Gross Internal Area (GIA) of the chargeable residential floorspace:
- Previously Developed Land (PDL): £22.06 per square metre
- Non-Previously Developed Land: £44.13 per square metre
The amount payable will depend on:
- The chargeable residential floorspace created
- Whether the site qualifies as Previously Developed Land (PDL)
What do I need to submit?
BSL information must be submitted at two stages of the Building Control process.
Stage 1 - application stage
When submitting your Building Control application, you must complete:
BSL information (application stage)
This form provides the information needed to determine whether the levy may apply to your development.
Stage 2 - commencement stage
Before works commence, you must complete:
BSL charging information (commencement stage)
This form provides the information required for the council to assess and calculate the levy charge.
Please make sure all information is accurate, including floor area calculations and any Previously Developed Land claims.
What happens next?
Once the commencement stage information has been received, the council will assess the submission and issue:
- A Levy Liability Notice confirming the amount payable
- Notice of No Charge if no levy is due
Assessment timescales
We aim to issue a notice within:
- 5 weeks of receiving a valid submission
- 8 weeks where additional checks are required
Payment
- The BSL must be paid before occupation or completion of the development
- Failure to pay may result in the Building Control Authority withholding a Completion Certificate or Final Certificate
- A Completion Certificate will only be issued once any BSL charge has been paid in full
Forms
Please complete the relevant form at the appropriate stage:
BSL information (application stage)
For submission with your Building Control application.
BSL charging information (commencement stage)
For submission before commencement to allow the council to assess and calculate any levy due.
Further information
For full details of the legislation, see The Building Safety Levy (England) Regulations 2025.