Transforming Building Evacuation
The Fire Safety (Residential Evacuation Plans) (England) Regulations 2025 mark a pivotal shift in how residential buildings support vulnerable occupants during fire emergencies. These regulations, introduced under Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, respond directly to recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Inquiry and aim to safeguard residents who may struggle to evacuate unaided.
The regulations apply to:
- High-rise residential buildings (18m+ or 7+ storeys) with two or more domestic units
- Mid-rise buildings (11m+) with a simultaneous evacuation strategy—where all residents must evacuate during a fire
Who are “Relevant Residents”?
A “Relevant Resident” is someone whose ability to evacuate is compromised due to:
- Physical mobility issues
- Sensory impairments (e.g. sight or hearing)
- Cognitive conditions
Key Duties for “Responsible Persons”
“Responsible Persons”, who are typically building owners, freeholders, or managing agents must:
- Identify vulnerable residents through proactive engagement
- Offer Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRAs) upon request
- Create Emergency Evacuation Statements tailored to individual needs
- Share information with Fire and Rescue Services (FRS)—with the resident’s consent—via secure information boxes or electronic means
- Prepare and maintain a Building-Wide Evacuation Plan, reviewed annually or when circumstances change
COO Phil Jones Comments:
“The Regulations will significantly enhance the protection of vulnerable residents in high-rise and higher-risk residential buildings by mandating personalised evacuation planning. The introduction of building-wide evacuation plans ensures that emergency services have immediate access to critical data.”
Concerned with understanding or implementing the latest regulatory compliance? Discuss your needs with us today.
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