The New Fire Safety Act 2021

This has been expected and will come into force in 2022. The changes are in line with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 as a consequence of the Grenfell Tower tragedy.

What are the changes?
The changes to the existing act apply to multi occupancy residential properties and encompasses any premises other than a single dwelling. The act also puts the onus on the duty-holders and/or building owners, known as the “responsible person” or lease holder to ensure they are conforming to the new act.

To improve fire safety the “responsible person” must ensure they conduct a suitable fire risk assessment covering the structure external walls, internal doors and windows and any attachments such as balconies, cladding and insulation.

The changes to the act also cover the suitability of access doors to individual flats that open onto communal areas. The doors need to be fully compliant and regularly maintained. The fire doors will need to have all the correct intumescent and fire-rated hardware, as well as a risk assessment.

These changes also make it easier for enforcement officers (Fire Service and Government) to prosecute the “responsible person”
 
Are you affected?
Yes. If you are the “responsible person” of a house converted into two flats or a high rise building with hundreds of apartments you need to conduct a risk assessment and ensure adequate fire safety measures are in place.
 
When do the changes come into effect?
Although passed in April 2021 the changes are not due to come into effect until 2022 (full date to be set) with a possible grace period. Although no date has been set, we recommend acting now, the safety of lives and the cost of damage to property should always be a priority to all.

Priority action
Ensure your fire risk assessment is reviewed.