Release date: 19 January 2023
From Monday (23 January) responsible persons for multi-occupied residential buildings must take additional steps when managing fire safety within their buildings.
The new Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 which are coming into force have been introduced as an important step towards implementing the recommendations of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 report.
The regulations apply to all residential buildings that are made up of two or more domestic premises, including the residential parts of mixed-use buildings.
The specific actions that responsible persons need to take is dependent on the height of the building they are responsible for. However, those responsible for high-rise properties within the county must submit detailed external wall reports and building plans to West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service from 23 January.
Abigail Link, Station Manager Fire Safety, said: “We welcome the commencement of the Fire Safety Act and the new Regulations, which are important steps forward in improving fire safety in West Sussex.
“These regulations will impose significant new legal requirements for responsible persons of residential buildings. They should now - if they have not already done so - review their fire risk assessments, to ensure these take account of any risk from the external wall.”
More information on the regulations, and how to submit details on floor plans and external wall reports can be found on our website.
