Be transparent about it.
A safety case does not become stronger by disguising uncertainty.
Where information cannot reasonably be obtained within the response period, explain:
- What is unknown – define the gap precisely.
- Why it matters – explain its potential relevance to fire spread or structural failure.
- What is currently known – avoid presenting the situation as completely unknown if useful evidence already exists.
- Current risk controls – explain what measures are already managing the risk.
- Interim measures – identify any additional precautions required while uncertainty remains.
- What you will do – describe the investigation, assessment or other action proposed.
- When you will do it – provide a realistic timescale.
- What happens next – explain how the results will be reviewed and incorporated into the safety case.
This demonstrates active management of uncertainty.
The BSR's own assessment criteria anticipate that safety cases may contain outstanding actions and information gaps. For fire safety, where further information or measures are required, the report should explain the issue and the AP's response, including timescales and interim measures for incomplete actions. It should also justify actions that are not being taken forward.
The same principle appears within the structural assessment criteria.
Next step
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Find out moreRelated questions
- I've received an RFI from the BSR about my safety case. What should I do?
Start by identifying what the BSR is asking you to demonstrate. An RFI is not a request for more documents — it is a regulatory question that needs a clear, risk-based answer.
- The BSR says there is insufficient evidence. Do I need to commission another survey?
Not necessarily. First establish whether evidence is genuinely missing, or whether the safety case has simply failed to explain the evidence that already exists.
- Should all outstanding surveys be completed before BAC submission?
Not necessarily. The important questions are why the survey is required, what uncertainty it resolves, how significant that uncertainty is, and whether the risk is adequately managed while the work remains outstanding.
Building safety legislation, regulation and Building Safety Regulator guidance can change. This page is general information, not legal advice — always refer to current legislation and official guidance for your building.