After the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, the Government committed to improving evacuation arrangements for people who may not be able to leave a building without assistance.

The aim of the new rules is to ensure residents who would need assistance to evacuate are identified, considered, and supported in a practical way.

The new duties apply to residential buildings in England that are:

• 18 metres or 7 storeys above ground level or higher, or:

• Over 11 metres where a simultaneous evacuation strategy is in place (meaning everyone must leave the building if there is a fire, even if smoke has not reached their area)

If you are unsure whether your building is included, your building owner or manager will be able to tell you.

A relevant resident is someone who:

1. Lives in the building as their only or main home, and:

2. Has a physical or cognitive impairment or condition that may prevent them from evacuating without help during a fire.

Examples might include:

• Reduced mobility

• Hearing or sight impairments

• Long-term health conditions

• Cognitive conditions affecting their awareness or decision making

A resident can choose someone they trust to act on their behalf if needed.

More information can be found in the Government’s guidance for Responsible Persons, found here.

If you are identified as someone who may need support, the Responsible Person should:

Offer a person-centred fire risk assessment

This is a conversation about:
• any difficulties you might face during an evacuation
• what arrangements could help you leave the building quickly and safely
• There is no legal requirement to take part, however we would encourage you to do so.

Discuss possible safety measures

These will be reasonable and proportionate options based on your assessment. Who pays will depend on what is considered reasonable. You cannot be forced to pay for a measure you do not want or cannot afford.

Agree an emergency evacuation statement (if you want one)

This is a short, written explanation of what you should do if there is a fire. You choose whether to agree to it.

Share minimal information with the fire and rescue service — only if you consent

This includes only:
• your flat number
• your floor number
• a basic indication of the help you may need
• whether you have an evacuation statement
No medical or personal information is shared. You can withdraw consent at any time.

Keep information up to date

Your assessment and arrangements must be reviewed at least every 12 months, or sooner if your situation changes.

Every building covered by the regulations must also have a building‑wide emergency evacuation plan.

The Responsible Person must prepare this.

It should include:

• A copy of instructions for residents

• Whether there are any relevant residents

• Details of any additional safety features (such as an evacuation alert system)

• The plan must be shared with TWFRS and a copy held in the secure information box and be reviewed at least every 12 months. Any changes or updates as a result of a review must be shared with TWFRS and reflected in the secure information box.