Agenda
Arrival, Networking & Lunch
Join us from midday for registration, refreshments and a buffet lunch. This opening session provides a relaxed opportunity to meet fellow delegates, connect with sector colleagues and start the afternoon’s conversations before the programme begins.
Time
12:00 - 13:00
Plenary Introduction
Mark London, Partner and Head of Construction at Devonshires Solicitors LLP, will open the conference with an overview of the evolving building safety landscape in Wales, setting the context for the day’s discussions.
Time
13:00 - 13:15
Welsh Housing Quality Standard (WHQS): Preparing for the New Hazard‑Response Requirements
From 1 April 2026, the introduction of WHQS Element 1c will create a more structured framework for how Welsh social landlords respond to damp, mould and other HHSRS hazards. This session will provide a practical overview of the new legal expectations, including the definitions of “significant risk” and “imminent harm,” the mandatory investigation and remediation timeframes, and the requirement to issue a written summary plan where it is not possible to meet them.
We will outline how landlords should adapt internal processes, prepare for the new framework and the legal risks that may lie ahead. Designed for senior leaders and operational teams, the session will set out what organisations need to do now to ensure full compliance and robust delivery ahead of implementation.
Speaker:
Lee Russell, Partner and Head of Housing Management and Property Litigation, Devonshires Solicitors LLP
Sarah Salmon, Barrister, Cornerstone Barristers
Time
13:15 - 14:00
Building Safety (Wales) Bill: Preparing for a New Regulatory Framework
This session will provide an overview of the Building Safety (Wales) Bill, outlining the new duty holder roles, updated building control processes and the key areas where the Welsh framework diverges from the English regime. We will have technical insight on hand from PRP LLP, leading architects in fire safety and complex residential design. The session will translate the Bill’s requirements into clear implications for development, building safety and asset‑management teams. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the Bill’s objectives, the likely operational impact of the new duties, and the steps organisations should take now to prepare.
Speaker:
Mark London, Partner and Head of Construction, Devonshires Solicitors LLP
Ellie Fletcher, Senior Associate, Devonshires Solicitors LLP
Andrew Mellor, Partner, PRP Architects LLP
Time
14:00 - 16:00
Panel Q&A
An opportunity to put your questions directly to our expert speakers. This interactive session will draw together key themes from the day, allowing delegates to explore the practical implications of the Welsh building safety reforms in more depth. Please feel free to submit questions in advance.
Speaker:
Mark London, Partner and Head of Construction, Devonshires Solicitors LLP
Andrew Mellor, Partner, PRP Architects LLP
Lee Russell, Partner and Head of Housing Management and Property Litigation, Devonshires Solicitors LLP
Time
16:00 - 16:30
Networking & Drinks Reception
Join us for informal drinks to round off the day, offering an ideal opportunity to connect with peers, speakers and sector specialists.
Time
16:30 - 18:00
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Contact
Devonshires Solicitors LLP 30 Finsbury Circus London EC2M 7DT
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