Fire Safety Regulation Updates: What They Mean For Your Building

New amendments to Approved Document B (Fire Safety) will come into force on 30 September 2026, strengthening fire safety requirements for higher risk residential buildings across England. These updates apply to new building work, as well as many refurbishment and change‑of‑use projects, and form part of wider national reforms designed to improve how people can escape safely in an emergency. 

The changes introduce clearer expectations for designers, developers and responsible persons, ensuring that fire safety measures are considered earlier in the design process and applied more consistently across residential developments. 

Key changes from September 2026 

The updated guidance includes several important requirements: 

• New residential buildings over 18 metres must be designed with a second staircase. 

• Stricter standards will apply to materials used on and within buildings, including improved compartmentation. 

• Sprinkler and suppression systems must be planned earlier in residential, mixed use or high‑rise developments. 

• Enhanced design guidance will support the use of evacuation lifts. 

• Escape travel distance limits have been revised. 

These changes aim to strengthen evacuation safety and ensure that fire protection measures are built into projects from the outset. 

Looking ahead to 2029 

Further amendments are scheduled for September 2029, including the removal of national fire resistance classifications to align with modern testing standards. Organisations planning long‑term improvements should keep these future updates in mind when developing fire safety strategies.

These upcoming changes highlight the importance of reviewing fire safety measures early, ensuring buildings remain compliant not only with the 2026 requirements but with future standards as they evolve. Clear planning, robust passive fire protection and regular assessments will help responsible persons maintain safe, resilient buildings.

How ODS can support you 

ODS provides a full range of fire safety services, from fire door inspections and installations to advanced passive fire protection. Our expertise extends beyond fire doors — we deliver comprehensive solutions including fire stopping, compartmentation and intumescent coatings, ensuring your building’s fire safety measures are robust, compliant and effective. 

As a trusted BM TRADA Q‑Mark certified installer, ODS is known for quality, reliability and peace of mind. We help protect your property, your people and your business from the risks of fire.  

Who we work with 

We support a wide range of organisations across Oxfordshire and beyond, including social housing providers, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities and educational institutions. 

To discuss how these regulatory updates may affect your building or project, get in touch: odsgroup.co.uk/fire-solutions