Landlords of residential buildings that exceed 11 metres in height face updated fire safety requirements as outlined in the latest regulations effective as of April. These are designed to improve occupant safety by ensuring preparedness for a safe and efficient evacuation in the event of a fire.

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans, or PEEPs, are a critical component of fire safety in high-rise residential premises. These plans are specially tailored to individuals who may require additional assistance during an evacuation, such as residents with disabilities, mobility challenges, or other specific needs. Landlords are now required to have these plans in place for any occupant identified as needing support during emergencies.

PEEPs must be carefully constructed to consider the unique layout of each building, the individual’s capabilities, and the most effective evacuation routes. This ensures that, in the event of a fire, emergency procedures account for the safe and timely evacuation of all residents, reducing risk to life and injury.

Premises Compliance Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRAs)

Complementing PEEPs, Premises Compliance Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRAs) are mandatory evaluations of the entire building’s fire safety measures. These assessments identify potential hazards, evaluate fire safety equipment effectiveness, and determine evacuation procedures’ adequacy.

PCFRAs provide landlords with a documented understanding of risk factors associated with their premises, guiding necessary improvements and compliance measures to meet fire safety standards.

Regulatory Context and Compliance Deadlines

These mandates apply specifically to residential buildings over 11 metres tall under current English fire safety legislation. The deadline for full implementation is by April of the current year, requiring landlords to prioritise immediate action if they have not yet complied.

Failure to adhere to these requirements may lead to regulatory sanctions and pose significant liability risks in the event of a fire incident.

Landlord Responsibilities and Best Practice

Landlords should engage qualified fire safety professionals to conduct PCFRAs and assist in developing comprehensive PEEPs. Residents should be consulted to ensure that PEEPs accurately represent individual needs.

While these new measures focus on high-rise blocks, landlords should also maintain vigilant fire safety practices across all their properties to align with best practice and ensure tenant safety.