Industry Challenges & 2026 Forecast: A Conversation with Joshua Davies

Wed, 03/04/2026 - 15:16

We speak to Joshua Davies, to discover his thoughts on the challenges facing the industry today.

1. How did you get into Building Control?

It was completely by accident, to be honest! After finishing my Building Surveying degree, I applied for what I thought was a Trainee Building Surveyor role. You can imagine my surprise when the interview started with "So, why do you want to be a Building Control Surveyor?" I had to think on my feet and come up with something on the spot – and somehow it worked out! That unexpected turn has shaped my entire career, and I haven't looked back since.

2. You've recently taken on the role of Technical Manager at SOCOTEC Building Control. What does that entail?

It's quite a broad role, really. I'm responsible for the technical oversight and management across the business – making sure we maintain technical excellence in everything we do. A big part of it involves training and development, supporting our Registered Building Inspectors and the wider support teams, and providing guidance on both legislative and technical matters, whether that's internally or externally. It's genuinely exciting and challenging in equal measure, and I'm really looking forward to what lies ahead.

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JOSHUA DAVIES

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3. There have been some big changes in the world of Building Control over the last few years – going forward, what are the challenges facing the industry?

For me, competence sits right at the top of the list. We're seeing an enormous amount of development activity, but there’s a limited pool of competent professionals available to ensure buildings are delivered to the required standards. When you layer on the constant evolution of legislation and technical guidance, plus a general lack of understanding of what Building Control actually does in this process, you can see how any project – regardless of size – can run into serious difficulties if the right professionals aren't engaged from the start.

4. If you could change one thing about the Building Regulations – technical or procedural – what would that be?

The confusion around terminology is a real issue. People use "Building Regulations" to mean different things – I often hear the Approved Documents referred to as "The Regs," which they're not. What I'd like to see is much clearer, more accessible documentation that helps anyone – whether they're a professional or not – understand what they're looking at. For example, is it Regulations (i.e. law) or Approved Documents (statutory guidance), how does it apply to their situation, and which elements should they focus on in what situation? When you consider that the average client, whether a homeowner, commercial business owner, or developer, has legal responsibilities under the Building Regulations, the current documentation really isn't user-friendly enough.

5. What should clients be looking out for in 2026?

There are several important changes on the horizon. We'll see amendments to Approved Document B requiring multiple staircases in residential buildings over 18 metres, along with new provisions for evacuation lift design. The Building Safety Levy will also come into force. There's been a recent consultation that could fundamentally change how Local Authorities charge for their services, which could affect what clients end up paying.

But my key piece of advice remains the same: focus on competence. Whatever project you're undertaking, make absolutely sure you're appointing the right people for both design and construction, and stay actively involved in your project. Don't forget – you have legal duties and understanding them is crucial.