Sergio Cavalaro, Professor of Infrastructure Systems at Loughborough University's School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering, was appointed as Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government announced on 6 October 2026. He began a three-year, full-time term, working alongside interim Chief Construction Adviser Thouria Istephan during a handover period. The post is intended to supply independent construction, engineering and scientific advice on building safety, quality and resilience, and on productivity in the built environment.

According to the department, the role is one of the recommendations in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry report, following the 2017 fire that killed 72 people. Cavalaro said he was committed to working with the Building Safety Regulator and the wider sector, and to offering independent advice and constructive challenge.

The department also said the Building Safety Levy, a tax on new eligible residential developments over 10 units and eligible purpose-built student accommodation, came into force on 1 October 2026. It was expected to raise around £3.4 billion over ten years for building safety works, including removing dangerous cladding.