Weekly Compliance Update: Fire Safety Act 2021 - Are You Ready for the Next Steps?

Hello everyone, Mark here. It’s the 6th of October 2026, and as the autumn leaves start to turn, it’s a good time to reflect on some of the more significant legislative changes that have been bedding in. One that’s been on my mind recently, especially after a couple of queries from clients, is the ongoing implementation and impact of the Fire Safety Act 2021. While the Act itself came into force a while back, its practical implications and the expectations placed on responsible persons are still very much a live issue for businesses across the UK.

For those of you managing non-domestic premises, or blocks of flats, the Fire Safety Act 2021 was a crucial piece of legislation designed to clarify and strengthen fire safety duties. It essentially extends the scope of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) to cover more buildings and clarifies who is responsible for what. The key takeaway is that the Act places greater emphasis on the fire risks associated with the structure, external walls, and flat entrance doors within multi-occupied residential buildings. It also clarifies that the FSO applies to the whole of the building, including parts not usually associated with fire safety, like balconies and common parts.

Who is affected and what does it mean?

If you are a ‘responsible person’ under the FSO – this typically includes building owners, landlords, and those with control over the premises – you need to be absolutely sure your fire risk assessments are up-to-date and reflect the requirements of the Fire Safety Act 2021. This means considering:

• External Wall Systems: Are you aware of the materials used in your building’s external walls? Are they compliant with current fire safety standards? The Act places a duty to assess the fire risks presented by these materials.
• Flat Entrance Doors: The fire performance of flat entrance doors is now a more explicit focus. Your risk assessment should consider whether these doors are adequate for their purpose in containing fire.
• Common Parts: The Act clarifies that fire risks in all common parts of a building (hallways, stairwells, lobbies, etc.) must be assessed and managed. This includes any external parts like balconies or walkways that form part of a common route.

The HSE and local fire authorities are continuing to enforce these regulations. We’ve seen an increase in targeted inspections, particularly in residential blocks, and non-compliance can lead to significant penalties, including substantial fines and, in worst-case scenarios, prosecution.

What should you do this week?

Given the ongoing focus on fire safety, here are a few practical steps you can take right now:

• Review Your Fire Risk Assessment: Dig out your latest fire risk assessment. Does it specifically address the external walls and flat entrance doors as required by the Fire Safety Act 2021? If not, you need to update it.
• Check Your Records: Ensure you have records of any assessments or remediation work carried out on external wall systems and flat entrance doors.
• Communicate with Stakeholders: If you manage a block of flats, ensure you are communicating effectively with leaseholders or residents about fire safety measures and any upcoming works.

"The Fire Safety Act 2021 isn't just about ticking boxes; it's about ensuring the safety of everyone who lives or works in a building. A thorough, up-to-date fire risk assessment is your foundation." — Mark, Livius Training.

Here at Livius Training, we understand that keeping up with legislation can feel like a constant challenge. Since 2009, we’ve been helping businesses across Yorkshire and the wider UK navigate these complexities with practical, accredited training. We offer courses in Fire Safety, First Aid, and a whole range of other essential health and safety topics, all designed to give your team the knowledge and confidence they need.

If you’re unsure about your fire safety responsibilities under the new Act, or if you’d like to book some essential training for your team, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re here to help you stay compliant and keep your premises safe.

Ready to bolster your fire safety knowledge? Contact Livius Training today or explore our course offerings online. Let’s ensure your compliance is watertight.