This site uses cookies that need consent.
Further amendments to Approved Document B (Fire Safety) are set to come into force on 30 September 2026, introducing additional measures aimed at strengthening fire safety provisions across higher-risk residential buildings.
The 2026 amendments focus on improving life safety in higher-risk residential buildings, particularly high-rise developments:
Provision of multiple stairs
Introduction of a new recommendation for more than one common stair in blocks of flats with a storey 18m or more in height, supporting safer evacuation routes.
Design provisions for evacuation lifts
Enhanced design guidance to facilitate the use of evacuation lifts, improving evacuation strategies and accessibility for occupants.
Removal of national fire resistance classifications
An update to fire safety provisions which will remove national classes for fire resistance, aligning with modern standards and consistency in classification.
As with the 2025 amendments, the 2019 edition of Approved Document B, incorporating the 2020, 2022 and 2025 changes, will continue to apply where; A building notice, initial notice, or full plans application has been submitted before the implementation date and works have commenced and are considered sufficiently advanced before that date.
This provides continuity for projects already underway.
The updated Approved Document B (Volumes 1 and 2), incorporating current and forthcoming amendments, can be accessed below:
Amendments to Approved Document B: Fire safety (2025 already in effect)
Amendments to Approved Document B: Fire safety (September 30th, 2026)
If you have any queries regarding the changes already in effect or the upcoming amendments, please contact:
alan.nock@monaghans.co.uk or rachel.smith@monaghans.co.uk
