Why recent UK fire-safety regulation changes mean more businesses and multi-occupancy buildings need sprinkler system reviews now
- Maryna Farrell
- 13 minutes ago
- 3 min read
In 2025, the UK’s fire safety landscape has undergone major changes.
With new building regulations, heightened accountability for duty-holders, and renewed public scrutiny following high-profile fire incidents, ensuring your building is protected has never been more critical.
For building owners, facilities managers, and developers, the message is clear: it’s time to review your fire protection systems - including your sprinklers.
The UK’s changing fire safety landscape
The government’s ongoing updates to fire safety regulations - including the March 2025 amendments to Approved Document B (Fire Safety) - are reshaping how buildings are designed, built, and maintained across England and Wales.
These updates build on the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Building Safety Act 2022, reinforcing the responsibilities of accountable persons and property managers to assess and mitigate fire risks.
Among the changes are 👇🏼
Expanded sprinkler requirements for certain residential and multi-occupancy buildings.
Greater emphasis on fire performance testing of materials.
Clearer guidance on fire compartmentation and active suppression systems.
Stronger expectations for documentation, maintenance, and ongoing compliance checks.
While some of these updates apply to new builds, others affect existing buildings - particularly those housing multiple occupants or commercial operations with complex layouts.
Real-world responses: councils and organisations act now to Fire Sprinkler System Reviews
Across the UK, local authorities and housing associations are already taking action.
North Northamptonshire Council, for example, recently announced enhanced fire safety measures across 8,000 of its council-owned homes, including more frequent fire-risk assessments and improvements to communal safety systems.
This kind of proactive review is exactly what the new regulations are encouraging -and it’s setting the standard for private landlords and commercial property owners, too.
Why sprinkler system reviews are essential
Sprinkler systems are one of the most effective life-saving and property-protecting measures available. But like any safety-critical system, they require periodic review and maintenance to remain compliant and operational.
Under the latest guidance, property managers must be able to demonstrate that their sprinkler systems meet current design standards (such as BS 9251:2021) and are suitable for the building’s layout, use, and occupancy.
A comprehensive system review should include:
Checking system design against current regulations and occupancy type.
Inspecting pumps, valves, and control systems for wear or corrosion.
Verifying sprinkler head coverage and water pressure performance.
Testing alarm integrations and monitoring connections.
Ensuring records, maintenance logs, and commissioning documents are up to date.
If your system was installed more than five years ago - or if your building has changed use or layout - it’s advisable to arrange a full review.
What this means for businesses and building owners 🤷🏻♂️
For commercial and multi-occupancy buildings, the consequences of neglecting fire-safety responsibilities can be severe. Beyond the obvious risk to life, non-compliance can lead to:
Regulatory enforcement and potential prosecution.
Invalidated insurance policies in the event of fire damage.
Disruption to business operations during investigations or remedial work.
Reputational harm, particularly for landlords and developers.
A proactive approach not only ensures compliance but also demonstrates corporate responsibility - showing that you take safety seriously for your employees, residents, and visitors.
At Concept Fire Sprinklers, we provide full-service solutions to keep your property compliant and protected.
Our expert team designs, installs, and maintains fire-sprinkler systems across the UK - from small domestic projects to large-scale commercial developments. With over 20 years’ experience, we understand the complexity of today’s regulations and tailor our systems to meet each client’s needs and budget.
Our services include:
Sprinkler system reviews and condition assessments.
New system design and installation to BS 9251 and BS EN 12845 standards.
Ongoing yearly maintenance and testing as required by law
System leasing options, helping spread costs for long-term upgrades.
Whether you’re managing a multi-occupancy property, upgrading an existing system, or planning a new development, we’ll help ensure your building meets the latest standards - and stays protected year after year.
Sources
Enhanced fire safety measures proposed for 8,000 council homes
Fire Safety Act 2021 — UK Government Legislation
Building Safety Act 2022 — UK Government Legislation
Comments