As part of our commitment to keeping you safe, we’re working to implement new fire safety regulations being introduced by government.
The new fire safety regulations, called the Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025, will come into effect on April 6, 2026 and are designed to improve the fire safety of disabled and vulnerable people in taller buildings.
If your block is between 11-18 metres and has a simultaneous evacuation strategy (this is where if the alarm sounds in your flat and in the communal areas, you must evacuate your block to a place of total safety away from the building) or if it is over 18 metres then these rules will apply to your building.
What this means for you
Personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs)
If you would need help to leave the building during a fire, we will create a PEEP with you. This plan sets out the support you might need. Your consent is required before we can do this. An emergency evacuation statement will also be created on the back of the PEEP so you are aware of what you must do. Again, your consent is required for this.
Person-centred fire risk assessment (PCFRA)
Before your PEEP can be written, we will offer you a short assessment to understand your individual needs and any risks you might face. This also requires your consent.
Sharing information
With your agreement, details of your evacuation plan will be shared with the local fire service. This helps them know where to find and assist residents who may need help in the event of an emergency. The information may also be stored in a premises information box located at or near your building’s entrance.
Building-wide evacuation plan
Every building will also have a general evacuation plan explaining what all residents should do in the event of a fire. This will also be shared with the fire service and stored in the information box if one is installed.
Annual review
Your plan will be reviewed at least once a year to make sure it remains accurate and up to date.
What you need to do from April 2026 if your building is in scope of the regulations:
- Contact your local officer if you think you may need a PEEP and provide consent for this and the emergency evacuation statement to be created.
- Give your consent and take part it in the PCFRA assessment initially prior to the undertaking of the PEEP.
- Share information about your mobility, health or other needs so we can create an accurate plan.
- Review and understand your PEEP and evacuation statement when they are ready.
- Let us know if your situation changes so we can update your plan.
If the building you live in fits the criteria, you will soon (or may have already) received a letter from your local officer with regards to the regulations.
