New Fire Safety Regulations for Multi-Occupied Residential Buildings: What London Landlords Must Do Now
From 6 April 2026, new fire safety regulations require landlords and building managers of certain multi-occupied residential buildings to implement Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (RPEEPs). This article explains the rules, who they affect, and actionable steps for London landlords to ensure compliance and protect residents.
Understanding the New Fire Safety Requirements
New regulations effective 6 April 2026 target multi-occupied residential buildings (MORBs) that are 18 metres or taller, or 11 metres or taller if a simultaneous evacuation strategy is employed. These introduce Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (RPEEPs), requiring the "Responsible Person"—usually the building owner, landlord, or managing agent—to identify residents needing evacuation assistance and develop personalised plans.
Why These Regulations Matter to Landlords
Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017, fire safety regulations have tightened. RPEEPs represent a proactive approach by mandating:
- Identification of residents with impairments affecting evacuation.
- Offering personalised fire risk assessments.
- Agreeing and documenting individual evacuation statements.
- Maintaining a comprehensive evacuation strategy incorporating individual needs.
Non-compliance risks legal action and endangers residents.
Who Is Affected?
These rules apply to multi-occupied buildings meeting height criteria:
- Portfolio landlords with high-rise blocks or multiple MORBs.
- Single-unit landlords owning flats in qualifying buildings.
- HMO landlords managing taller or larger properties.
- Accidental landlords owning flats in such buildings.
Practical Steps to Take Immediately
- Identify Affected Properties: Audit your portfolio for MORBs 18m+ or 11m+ with simultaneous evacuation.
- Assess Resident Needs: Use confidential processes—questionnaires or interviews—and liaise with health or social care.
- Offer Personalised Fire Risk Assessments: Tailor assessments for mobility, sensory, or cognitive issues.
- Develop Evacuation Statements: Collaborate with residents to document individual plans.
- Update Building-Wide Evacuation Plans: Integrate individual needs and review regularly.
- Train Staff and Communicate Obligations: Ensure all responsible persons understand their roles.
- Consult Professionals: Engage fire safety experts and legal advisors.
Benchmarking and Documentation
Use local demographic data to estimate residents needing assistance. Maintain clear records of assessments and plans for compliance evidence.
Tailoring Your Approach by Landlord Type
- Portfolio landlords: Centralise RPEEP management.
- Single-unit landlords: Collaborate with managing agents or neighbours.
- HMO landlords: Account for multiple residents’ needs and communal areas.
- Accidental landlords: Seek expert advice urgently.
Next Steps: Compliance Workflow
- Week 1–2: Audit properties.
- Week 3–4: Start resident assessments.
- Month 2: Conduct fire risk assessments.
- Month 3: Finalise evacuation statements and update plans.
- Ongoing: Train staff and review plans regularly.
How Rentals & Sales Can Help
Our specialised team provides portfolio reviews, compliance audits, workflow design, plan updates, and tenant liaison support. Contact us for consultation to meet these essential fire safety standards.
Compliance Disclaimer: This article is for information only and does not constitute legal advice. Landlords should consult qualified fire safety and legal professionals to ensure compliance.
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