Reports & recommendations
104 recommendations from 2 reports, each with the government response on the record. Filter by government response, report, nation or delivery status.
Reports (2)
Recommendations (104)
Require external wall information for fire services
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to provide their local fire and rescue service with information about the design of its external walls together with details of the materials of which they are constructed and to inform the fire and rescue service of any material changes made to them.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that implementation of the recommendation was complete following the commencement of the Fire Safety Act and the entry into force of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 in January 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that under these regulations, responsible persons for high-rise residential buildings are required to prepare a record of the design and materials of external walls and send it electronically to their local fire and rescue service (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Train fire personnel on external wall fire risks
All fire and rescue services ensure that their personnel at all levels understand the risk of fire taking hold in the external walls of high-rise buildings and know how to recognise it when it occurs.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that delivery of the recommendation was complete, relaying National Fire Chiefs Council confirmation that all 43 fire and rescue services had reviewed training and trained all relevant staff using its products, while the London Fire Brigade had also trained all operational and control staff (Home Office, Feb 2025). In September 2024, the department had reported progress as ongoing, with Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service being the only service with the training still outstanding (Home Office, Sep 2024).
LFB to review PN633 Appendix 1
The LFB review, and revise as appropriate, Appendix 1 to PN633 to ensure that it fully reflects the principles in GRA 3.2.
The Home Office stated in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had completed the recommendation (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department reported in that February 2025 update that guidance previously contained in the brigade's High-Rise Firefighting policy had been reviewed and incorporated into its Management of Operational Risk Information policy, with all operational staff completing mandatory training on the revision (Home Office, Feb 2025). It noted in February 2025 that this improved guidance assisted operational staff to understand risks within their station areas, alongside new National Operational Guidance maintained by the National Fire Chiefs Council (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Train LFB officers on high-rise inspections
The LFB ensure that all officers of the rank of Crew Manager and above are trained in carrying out the requirements of PN633 relating to the inspection of high-rise buildings.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade considered the recommendation complete, noting that all operational staff had completed mandatory training on the revised Management of Operational Risk Information policy to better understand risks within London's built environment (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department had previously recorded the brigade's position that the recommendation was complete in February 2024 (Home Office, Feb 2024).
Require building floor plans for fire services
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to provide their local fire and rescue services with up-to-date plans in both paper and electronic form of every floor of the building identifying the location of key fire safety systems.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that implementation of this recommendation was complete, following the entry into force of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 in January 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department explained that these regulations require the responsible person for a high-rise residential building to prepare floor plans showing the location of lifts and key fire-fighting equipment, submit them electronically to their local fire and rescue service, and place hard copies in an on-site secure information box (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require premises information boxes
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to ensure that the building contains a premises information box, the contents of which must include a copy of the up-to-date floor plans and information about the nature of any lift intended for use by the fire and rescue services.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that implementation of this recommendation was complete, noting that the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 came into force in January 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in February 2025 that under the regulations, the responsible person for a high-rise residential building must install a secure information box containing building floor plans, a single-page building plan, and contact details (Home Office, Feb 2025). It also noted in February 2025 that building guidance had been amended to require secure information boxes in all new residential buildings over 11 metres (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Equip fire services to receive electronic plans
All fire and rescue services be equipped to receive and store electronic plans and to make them available to incident commanders and control room managers.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the National Fire Chiefs Council considered the recommendation complete, with every fire and rescue service in England equipped to receive and store electronic plans and share high-rise residential building risk data with control room managers and incident commanders (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department also recorded in February 2025 that London Fire Brigade treated the recommendation as complete, using an interim solution while procurement and outstanding requirements workstreams for its One Risk project continued (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require monthly firefighter lift inspections
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to carry out regular inspections of any lifts that are designed to be used by firefighters in an emergency and to report the results of such inspections to their local fire and rescue service at monthly intervals.
The Home Office stated in February 2025 that the recommendation was complete, following the commencement of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 in January 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department noted in the same February 2025 update that the regulations require the responsible person for a high-rise residential building to undertake monthly checks of firefighter lifts and report any fault taking longer than 24 hours to resolve to the local fire and rescue service (Home Office, Feb 2025). HM Government had previously accepted the recommendation in principle in January 2020 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Jan 2020).
Require monthly lift control mechanism tests
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to carry out regular tests of the mechanism which allows firefighters to take control of the lifts and to inform their local fire and rescue service at monthly intervals that they have done so.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that implementation of this recommendation was complete following the introduction of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which came into force in January 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in February 2025 that under these regulations, the responsible person for a high-rise residential building must undertake monthly checks of lifts for use by firefighters and evacuation lifts, and electronically report any fault taking longer than 24 hours to fix to their local fire and rescue service (Home Office, Feb 2025).
LFB review control room communications policy
The LFB review its policies on communications between the control room and the incident commander.
The Inquiry recommended that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) review control room communications policies. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the brigade considered the recommendation complete (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that the brigade published a revised fire survival guidance policy in March 2021 following an extensive training programme for operational and control staff (Home Office, Feb 2025). This update describes enhancements to exchanging fire survival guidance information between control and the incident ground, while communications with the incident commander are not mentioned (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Train incident commanders on control room communications
All officers who may be expected to act as incident commanders (i.e. all those above the rank of Crew Manager) receive training directed to the specific requirements of communication with the control room.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had completed this recommendation (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that a revised policy on fire survival guidance was published in March 2021 and 95 percent of watch officers and senior officers had received face-to-face training (Home Office, Feb 2025). It added that this learning was being embedded through exercises involving residential high-rise fire scenarios (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Train control room operators on incident commander communications
All CROs of Assistant Operations Manager rank and above receive training directed to the specific requirements of communication with the incident commander.
The Inquiry recommended training senior control room operators on communicating with incident commanders. The Home Office stated in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade (LFB) reported the recommendation had been completed (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department noted that all control staff had received training on a revised Fire Survival Guidance policy issued in March 2021 and were taking part in residential high-rise exercises to embed learning (Home Office, Feb 2025). That update did not mention training directed to communications with the incident commander or staff of Assistant Operations Manager rank (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Dedicated control room to incident commander link
A dedicated communication link be provided between the senior officer in the control room and the incident commander.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the London Fire Brigade considered this recommendation complete (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in February 2025 that the brigade had published a revised fire survival guidance policy in March 2021, establishing procedures for a dedicated communication link between the control room and the bridgehead on the incident ground (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Distinguish between advice and rescue callers
The LFB's policies be amended to draw a clearer distinction between callers seeking advice and callers who believe they are trapped and need rescuing.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade considers this recommendation completed (Home Office, Feb 2025). According to the department, the brigade produced guidance to draw a clearer distinction between callers seeking advice and callers who believe they are trapped and need rescuing within Appendix 1 of Policy Number 790 on fire survival guidance (Home Office, Feb 2025). This guidance was published in March 2021 following a brigade-wide training programme (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Regular refresher training for control room operators
The LFB provide regular and more effective refresher training to CROs at all levels, including supervisors.
The Inquiry recommended regular, effective refresher training for control room staff. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the London Fire Brigade considered the recommendation completed (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that control staff began training on revised Policy Number 790 on Fire Survival Guidance in December 2020 (Home Office, Feb 2025). It added that maintenance of competency requirements was set out within the control element of the brigade's Development and Maintenance of Operational Professionalism (DaMOP) framework established in July 2020 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Develop policies for handling multiple FSG calls
All fire and rescue services develop policies for handling a large number of FSG calls simultaneously.
The Inquiry asked fire services to create policies for handling multiple simultaneous survival guidance calls. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that all fire and rescue services in England had completed the recommendation, based on a survey by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that services had reviewed their policies and training to manage multiple fire survival guidance calls, alongside adopting technological systems to share information simultaneously (Home Office, Feb 2025). It also recorded that London Fire Brigade (LFB) had completed the recommendation following the rollout of revised operational guidance and associated training (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Electronic FSG recording and display systems
Electronic systems be developed to record FSG information in the control room and display it simultaneously at the bridgehead and in any command units.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the recommendation was complete across fire and rescue services, relaying a National Fire Chiefs Council survey confirming that all 43 services in England had taken actions to effectively capture and share information, while the London Fire Brigade considered the measure complete following the launch of its application in March 2022 (Home Office, Feb 2025). Previously, in September 2024, the department had reported that Buckinghamshire and Royal Berkshire were the final two services completing assurance and testing of their new systems (Home Office, Sep 2024).
Develop stay put to evacuation transition policies
Policies be developed for managing a transition from 'stay put' to 'get out'.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that action on the recommendation was complete across all fire and rescue services, citing a National Fire Chiefs Council survey confirming that every service in England had completed the necessary steps (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department also recorded that the London Fire Brigade had completed the recommendation, having published revised fire survival guidance and new evacuation and rescue policies in March 2021 and trained all operational and control staff (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Train control room staff on evacuation advice changes
Control room staff receive training directed specifically to handling such a change of advice and conveying it effectively to callers.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that this recommendation had been completed across fire and rescue services (Home Office, Feb 2025). It recorded that a National Fire Chiefs Council survey found all 43 English services had completed the action, while the London Fire Brigade confirmed that training for control room staff was complete and embedded through exercises (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Investigate inter-control room information sharing
Steps be taken to investigate methods by which assisting control rooms can obtain access to the information available to the host control room.
Relaying assurances from the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Home Office reported in February 2025 that delivery across fire and rescue services was complete, with shared Airwave talk groups embedded across all 43 services (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department explained in the same February 2025 update that while the Multi Agency Incident Transfer electronic system was connected to 18 control rooms serving 26 services, ten further connections were anticipated by March 2025 and the final six would be connected "in slower time" due to local integration work (Home Office, Feb 2025).
LAS and MPS review FSG call protocols
The LAS and the MPS review their protocols and policies to ensure that their operators can identify FSG calls (as defined by the LFB) and pass them to the LFB as soon as possible.
The Inquiry asked ambulance and police services to review fire survival guidance call protocols. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the London Ambulance Service (LAS) and the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) had reviewed their protocols to ensure calls are passed to the London Fire Brigade (LFB), which shared its revised policy and briefing note, and the department considered the recommendation complete (Home Office, Feb 2025). Earlier, in October 2019, Paul Woodrow OBE, Director of Operations at the ambulance service, stated that it welcomed the findings and accepted the recommendations relating to it (Paul Woodrow OBE, Oct 2019).
LFB improve deployment control policies
The LFB develop policies and training to ensure better control of deployments and the use of resources.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had completed the recommendation through its revised High-Rise Firefighting policy introduced in June 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department noted in February 2025 that this policy included guidance on crew deployments and Fire Survival Guidance calls, and that initial training in the new procedures had concluded in March 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Improve crew debrief information systems
The LFB develop policies and training to ensure that better information is obtained from crews returning from deployments and that the information is recorded in a form that enables it to be made available immediately to the incident commander (and thereafter to the command units and the control room).
The Inquiry asked the London Fire Brigade to improve crew debriefing and information recording. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the brigade considers the recommendation complete (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that the brigade developed a structured briefing model to ensure information is consistently gathered and recorded during debriefings (Home Office, Feb 2025). It added that the model has been incorporated into incident command training as well as policies on high-rise firefighting, fire survival guidance, and evacuation (Home Office, Feb 2025). Making recorded information immediately available to command units and the control room is not mentioned in the update (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Direct control room to incident commander communications
The LFB develop a communication system to enable direct communication between the control room and the incident commander and improve the means of communication between the incident commander and the bridgehead.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the London Fire Brigade considered this recommendation complete through its revised Fire Survival Guidance policy (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department also recorded in February 2025 that the brigade had issued guidance on effective communication at incidents, altered radio channels to allow for dedicated command channels, and introduced drones to livestream information to Brigade Control (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Investigate modern control room to bridgehead communications
The LFB investigate the use of modern communication techniques to provide a direct line of communication between the control room and the bridgehead, allowing information to be transmitted directly between the control room and the bridgehead and providing an integrated system of recording FSG information and the results of deployments.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade considered this recommendation complete, having addressed it through the rollout of a Fire Survival Guidance application that went live in March 2022 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated that the application enables information from fire survival guidance calls to be displayed simultaneously at an incident and in the control room (Home Office, Feb 2025). An earlier update in February 2024 noted that the introduction of the application had previously faced technical delays before those issues were resolved (Home Office, Feb 2024).
Equipment for BA communication in high-rise buildings
The LFB urgently take steps to obtain equipment that enables firefighters wearing helmets and breathing apparatus to communicate with the bridgehead effectively, including when operating in high-rise buildings.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the recommendation was complete, stating that the London Fire Brigade launched new breathing apparatus sets on 11 March 2024 featuring integrated mask communications and higher power radios to improve contact between wearers and the bridgehead (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department had previously reported in February 2024 that the rollout had been delayed from January 2024 to resolve equipment quality assurance issues with the supplier and allow additional time for training (Home Office, Feb 2024).
Command support system operational on all units
Urgent steps be taken to ensure that the command support system is fully operative on all command units and that crews are trained in its use.
The Home Office stated in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had completed the recommendation (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department explained in February 2025 that new hardware servers and 4G connectivity had been installed across all command units, two 4G-enabled laptops had been supplied to each unit to provide resilience, and all command unit staff had completed refresher training (Home Office, Feb 2025).
National guidelines for high-rise evacuations
The government develop national guidelines for carrying out partial or total evacuations of high-rise residential buildings, such guidelines to include the means of protecting fire exit routes and procedures for evacuating persons who are unable to use the stairs in an emergency, or who may require assistance (such as disabled people, older people and young children).
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that action on this recommendation was complete, stating that evacuation guidelines for the Fire and Rescue Service were published in February 2024 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department noted in the same February 2025 update that these guidelines drew on four research projects undertaken with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, covering operational research, human behaviour, building design, and a rapid evidence review (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Fire services develop evacuation policies and training
Fire and rescue services develop policies for partial and total evacuation of high-rise residential buildings and training to support them.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that this recommendation had been completed across England (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in the same February 2025 update that a survey by the National Fire Chiefs Council confirmed every service had completed the necessary action on evacuation policies and training (Home Office, Feb 2025). It also recorded in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had completed the recommendation after establishing its evacuation and rescue policy and training all operational personnel (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require evacuation plans for high-rise buildings
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to draw up and keep under regular review evacuation plans, copies of which are to be provided in electronic and paper form to their local fire and rescue service and placed in an information box on the premises.
The Inquiry recommended legally requiring high-rise residential building owners to maintain and share evacuation plans. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that the recommendation was complete and fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department reported that regulations laid in July 2025 mandate Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) and require sharing vulnerable residents' information with fire and rescue services (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). While its updates described these provisions for vulnerable residents, placing evacuation plans in on-premises information boxes is not mentioned in the sources (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Require evacuation alarm systems in high-rise buildings
All high-rise residential buildings (both those already in existence and those built in the future) be equipped with facilities for use by the fire and rescue services enabling them to send an evacuation signal to the whole or a selected part of the building by means of sounders or similar devices.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported this recommendation as complete, stating that statutory guidance now requires evacuation alert systems in all new residential blocks over 18 metres (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department explained that limited evidence on system effectiveness was not sufficient to justify mandating retrofits for existing high-rise residential buildings at that time (Home Office, Feb 2025). It also noted that fire and rescue services had completed policies and training for high-rise evacuations alongside broader fire safety improvements (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs)
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to prepare personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs) for all residents whose ability to self-evacuate may be compromised (such as persons with reduced mobility or cognition).
The Inquiry recommended legally requiring high-rise building owners to prepare personal emergency evacuation plans. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the majority of its Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) policy came into force in April 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that the recommendation remains open because mandating person-centred fire risk assessments within individual flats requires primary legislation (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It scheduled the introduction of this legislation for 2027 when Parliamentary time allows (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Require PEEP information in premises information box
The owner and manager of every high-rise residential building be required by law to include up-to-date information about persons with reduced mobility and their associated PEEPs in the premises information box.
The Inquiry recommended legally requiring personal evacuation plans in high-rise premises information boxes. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation is complete and "fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department stated that regulations laid in July 2025 mandated Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) and required sharing information with fire and rescue services, though premises information boxes were not mentioned (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). Earlier, the Home Office had reported in February 2025 that new secondary legislation would mandate building evacuation plans alongside personal plans after successive public consultations (Chris Philp, Mar 2024; Home Office, Feb 2025).
Equip fire services with smoke hoods
All fire and rescue services be equipped with smoke hoods to assist in the evacuation of occupants through smoke-filled exit routes.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the recommendation was complete for both the London Fire Brigade and fire and rescue services across England (Home Office, Feb 2025). It relayed that an August 2022 National Fire Chiefs Council survey found all 43 responding services had acquired smoke hoods, made them operationally available, and trained staff, while the brigade reported introducing smoke hoods across all front-line appliances in November 2018 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require clear floor number markings in high-rise buildings
In all high-rise buildings floor numbers be clearly marked on each landing within the stairways and in a prominent place in all lobbies in such a way as to be visible both in normal conditions and in low lighting or smoky conditions.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that implementation of this recommendation was complete (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in February 2025 that under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, which came into force in January 2023, responsible persons for high-rise residential buildings must install wayfinding signage on stairway landings and lift lobbies visible in low light or when illuminated with a torch, in line with guidance amendments published in November 2020 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Require understandable fire safety instructions
The owner and manager of every residential building containing separate dwellings (whether or not it is a high-rise building) be required by law to provide fire safety instructions (including instructions for evacuation) in a form that the occupants of the building can reasonably be expected to understand, taking into account the nature of the building and their knowledge of the occupants.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that this recommendation was complete, following the introduction of statutory requirements for comprehensible fire safety instructions (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department stated in February 2025 that the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 came into force in January 2023 to mandate annual, comprehensible instructions for multi-occupied residential buildings, alongside provisions under Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022 that took effect in October 2023 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Urgent fire door inspections required
The owner and manager of every residential building containing separate dwellings (whether or not they are high-rise buildings) carry out an urgent inspection of all fire doors to ensure that they comply with applicable legislative standards.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the recommendation was complete following legislative changes (Home Office, Feb 2025). It stated that under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, responsible persons for multi-occupied residential buildings of 11 metres and above must conduct quarterly checks on fire doors in common parts and annual checks on flat entrance doors (Home Office, Feb 2025). The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government had previously issued advice in January 2020 recommending routine inspections of all fire doors by qualified professionals (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Jan 2020).
Require quarterly fire door checks
The owner and manager of every residential building containing separate dwellings (whether or not they are high-rise buildings) be required by law to carry out checks at not less than three-monthly intervals to ensure that all fire doors are fitted with effective self-closing devices in working order.
The Home Office stated in February 2025 that implementation was complete, reporting that under regulations in force since January 2023, responsible persons for multi-occupied residential buildings 11 metres and above must carry out quarterly checks on fire doors in common parts and annual checks on flat entrance doors on a best endeavour basis (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department had previously explained in May 2022 that annual rather than quarterly checks were adopted for flat entrance doors because consultation feedback showed guaranteed access to individual flats was unrealistic (Home Office, May 2022).
Require compliant flat entrance doors where unsafe cladding exists
All those who have responsibility in whatever capacity for the condition of the entrance doors to individual flats in high-rise residential buildings, whose external walls incorporate unsafe cladding, be required by law to ensure that such doors comply with current standards.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that action on the recommendation was complete, explaining that the Fire Safety Act 2021 clarified that duties under the Fire Safety Order cover flat entrance doors and external walls, and that regulations in force since January 2023 require annual door checks in buildings over 11 metres on a best endeavour basis (Home Office, Feb 2025). HM Government had previously accepted the recommendation in principle in January 2020, setting out plans to legislate so that building managers must assess and mitigate fire safety risks from flat entrance doors (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Jan 2020).
Communicate Major Incident declarations to all responders
Each emergency service must communicate the declaration of a Major Incident to all other Category 1 Responders as soon as possible.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported the recommendation as complete, stating that its requirements were incorporated into the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles Joint Doctrine published in October 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department added that the revised London Emergency Services Liaison Panel Major Incidents Procedures Manual was published in November 2021, while London Fire Brigade remained in the process of revising its Major Incident Policy to include informing other category 1 responders (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Establish inter-service control room communications
On the declaration of a Major Incident clear lines of communication must be established as soon as possible between the control rooms of the individual emergency services.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported this recommendation as "complete", stating that provisions for inter-service communication were incorporated into the revised JESIP Joint Doctrine published in October 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department also noted in February 2025 that London's revised Major Incidents Procedures Manual was published in November 2021, while the London Fire Brigade was in the process of revising its Major Incident Policy to activate tri-service calls (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Designate single point of contact in control rooms
A single point of contact should be designated within each control room to facilitate such communication.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported that action on this recommendation was complete, explaining that requirements were incorporated into the revised Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles Joint Doctrine published in October 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). In the same February 2025 update, the department noted that the London Emergency Services Liaison Panel had published an updated Major Incidents Procedures Manual in November 2021, while London Fire Brigade remained in the process of revising its Major Incident Policy (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Use METHANE messages for Major Incidents
A “METHANE” message should be sent as soon as possible by the emergency service declaring a Major Incident.
The Inquiry recommended sending a METHANE message promptly when declaring a Major Incident. In February 2025, the Home Office reported that the recommendation was complete, noting that relevant provisions were incorporated into the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP) Joint Doctrine in October 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department added that London emergency services published a revised procedures manual addressing the issues in November 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025). It also stated that London Fire Brigade was in the process of revising its Major Incident Policy to reinforce METHANE messaging (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Investigate LFB-MPS-LAS system compatibility
Steps be taken to investigate the compatibility of the LFB systems with those of the MPS and the LAS with a view to enabling all three emergency services' systems to read each other's messages.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that the London Fire Brigade had closed off the recommendation as complete after fully investigating the compatibility of its systems with the Metropolitan Police Service and London Ambulance Service (Home Office, Feb 2025). It stated that the brigade's mobilising system was Multi Agency Incident Transfer enabled, while noting that the brigade had committed to continuing work with partner services to deliver full capability (Home Office, Feb 2025).
NPAS helicopter datalink encryption standards
Steps be taken to ensure that the airborne datalink system on every NPAS helicopter observing an incident which involves one of the other emergency services defaults to the National Emergency Service user encryption.
In February 2025, the Home Office reported the recommendation as complete, stating that the National Police Air Service had mandated refresher training across 43 police forces and that software upgrades enabling airborne data link systems to automatically default to National Emergency Services user encryption had been completed for all operational aircraft (Home Office, Feb 2025). HM Government had previously stated in January 2020 that aircraft were being manually configured at the start of each shift while an automated technology solution was developed (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Jan 2020).
Improve survivor information collection and sharing
The LFB, the MPS, the LAS and the London local authorities all investigate ways of improving the collection of information about survivors and making it available more rapidly to those wishing to make contact with them.
The Home Office reported in February 2025 that this recommendation was complete, relaying progress from London's emergency services (Home Office, Feb 2025). The department noted in that February 2025 update that procedures for improving survivor information collection and sharing had been incorporated into London's Major Incidents Procedures Manual by the London Emergency Services Liaison Panel and the Humanitarian Assistance Working Group, with the revised manual published in November 2021 (Home Office, Feb 2025).
Establish single construction industry regulator
We therefore recommend that the government draw together under a single regulator all the functions relating to the construction industry to which we have referred. (113.6)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that it had completed the transition of the Building Safety Regulator out of the Health and Safety Executive and published its consultation response on the single regulator (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In the same September 2026 update, the department stated that bringing forward primary legislation is the next step, with introduction planned between 2027 and 2029 before the single regulator is established between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in principle in February 2025, excluding product testing and certification functions to avoid creating a conflict of interest (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Review Building Safety Act higher-risk building definition
We therefore recommend that the definition of a higher-risk building for the purposes of the Building Safety Act be reviewed urgently. (113.7)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department reported that an initial review by the Building Safety Regulator concluded there was insufficient evidence to amend the regime's scope, and that the government had published the findings alongside plans for ongoing assessments in December 2025 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Consolidate fire safety functions under single department
We therefore recommend that the government bring responsibility for the functions relating to fire safety currently exercised by MHCLG, the Home Office and the Department for Business and Trade into one department under a single Secretary of State. (113.8)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that this recommendation was "complete and has been fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously stated in February 2026 that fire functions moved from the Home Office under a machinery of government change in April 2025, followed by a staff transfer in July 2025 and final budget transfers in January 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Appoint Chief Construction Adviser
We therefore recommend that the Secretary of State appoint a Chief Construction Adviser with a sufficient budget and staff to provide advice on all matters affecting the construction industry, including: a) monitoring all aspects of the department's work relating to the Building Regulations and statutory guidance; b) providing advice to the Secretary of State on request; and c) bringing to the attention of the Secretary of State any matters affecting the Building Regulations and statutory guidance or matters affecting the construction industry more generally of which the government should be aware. (113.9)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that recruitment for a Chief Construction and Scientific Adviser is underway, with a successful candidate expected to be appointed between October and December 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in February 2026 that this unified role will replace both its Chief Scientific Adviser and an interim Chief Construction Adviser appointed for 12 months in September 2025 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Review statutory guidance and Approved Document B
We therefore recommend that the statutory guidance generally, and Approved Document B in particular, be reviewed accordingly and a revised version published as soon as possible. (113.11)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the Building Safety Regulator had closed its consultation on changes to Approved Document B and was analysing more than 500 responses (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department added in September 2026 that an interim report on the Fundamental Review of Building Regulations guidance was expected between July and September 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In its September 2026 timeline, the department projected that recommendations to update Approved Document B would be published in the second quarter of 2027, followed by the completion of the guidance review in the fourth quarter of 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Add legal requirements warning to statutory guidance
We therefore recommend that a revised version of the guidance contain a clear warning in each section that the legal requirements are contained in the Building Regulations and that compliance with the guidance will not necessarily result in compliance with them. (113.12)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that work continued on the Fundamental Review of Building Regulations guidance to address this recommendation, with an interim report expected in the third quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department's delivery timeline scheduled the completion of the review and next steps for implementation for the fourth quarter of 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government previously accepted the recommendation in February 2025, stating that it would address the issue through its response to recommendation 5 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Reconsider compartmentation in Approved Document B
New materials and methods of construction and the practice of overcladding existing buildings make the existence of effective compartmentation a questionable assumption and we recommend that it be reconsidered when Approved Document B is revised. (113.13)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the Building Safety Regulator had closed its consultation on changes to Approved Document B and was analysing more than 500 responses (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department also stated in September 2026 that recommendations to update Approved Document B are scheduled to be published between April and June 2027, ahead of completing the fundamental review of guidance in late 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government accepted the recommendation in February 2025, stating that it would address compartmentation through its response to recommendation 5 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Require fire engineer calculations for fire spread and evacuation
Calculating the likely rate of fire spread and the time required for evacuation, including the evacuation of those with physical or mental impairments, are matters for a qualified fire engineer. We do not think that it would be helpful to attempt to include in Approved Document B an indication of what would be acceptable because each building is different, but we recommend that the guidance draw attention to the need to make a calculation of that kind. (113.13)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the Building Safety Regulator is analysing more than 500 responses to its consultation on changes to Approved Document B, with recommendations expected by March 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department added in September 2026 that publishing recommendations to update the guidance is scheduled for the second quarter of 2027, followed by the completion of the wider review of building regulations guidance in late 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, stating it would explore updates to Approved Document B through the regulator's ongoing review (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Include academics on statutory guidance advisory bodies
We therefore recommend that, as far as possible, membership of bodies advising on changes to the statutory guidance should include representatives of the academic community as well as those with practical experience of the industry (including fire engineers) chosen for their experience and skill and should extend beyond those who have served on similar bodies in the past. (113.14)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that the recommendation was "complete and has been fully discharged", reporting that the Building Advisory Committee and its Fire Safety Working Group were operational with representation from academia and industry (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously reported in February 2026 that the Building Safety Regulator had also appointed an expert panel including academic and industry members to support its review of building regulations guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Require fire safety strategy from registered fire engineer at Gateway 2
We therefore recommend that it be made a statutory requirement that a fire safety strategy produced by a registered fire engineer (see below) to be submitted with building control applications (at Gateway 2) for the construction or refurbishment of any higher-risk building and for it to be reviewed and re-submitted at the stage of completion (Gateway 3). Such a strategy must take into account the needs of vulnerable people, including the additional time they may require to leave the building or reach a place of safety within it and any additional facilities necessary to ensure their safety. (113.15)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that it was reviewing whether the existing building safety regime addresses all aspects of the recommendation and working with industry partners to clarify what a fire safety strategy should include (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In the same September 2026 update, the department outlined a timeline targeting a potential consultation in early 2027 and regulations setting out the requirement in 2029, both dependent on discussions with stakeholders (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It also stated in September 2026 that requiring strategies to be produced by fire engineers remains dependent on increasing professional capacity under recommendations 15, 16, and 18 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Develop new test methods for evacuation strategy assessments
It follows that assessing whether an external wall system can support a particular evacuation strategy is difficult because the necessary information is not always available. We therefore recommend that steps be taken in conjunction with the professional and academic community to develop new test methods that will provide the information needed for such assessments to be carried out reliably. (113.17)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the Building Safety Regulator is analysing over 500 consultation responses on Approved Document B, with recommendations expected by March 2027 and the wider review of statutory guidance scheduled for completion in late 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, committing to work with the professional and academic community through the review to consider changes and inform new test methods for external wall systems (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Clarify BS 9414 limitations requiring fire engineer assessment
For the reasons given by Professor Torero we think that BS 9414 should be approached with caution and we recommend that the government make it clear that it should not be used as a substitute for an assessment by a suitably qualified fire engineer. (113.18)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that work on the recommendation remains in progress, with an interim report on the Fundamental Review of Building Regulations guidance expected in the third quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In its September 2026 update, the department scheduled recommendations for updating Approved Document B for the second quarter of 2027, with the guidance review due to conclude in the fourth quarter of 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, stating that it would address the matter through its response to recommendation 5 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Make construction regulator responsible for product conformity certificates
We therefore recommend that the construction regulator should be responsible for assessing the conformity of construction products with the requirements of legislation, statutory guidance and industry standards and issuing certificates as appropriate. We should expect such certificates to become pre-eminent in the market. (113.22)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that it is reviewing responses to consultations on the Construction Products Reform White Paper and the General Safety Requirement, with plans to publish responses and set out next steps later in the year (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department's implementation timeline projects introducing primary and secondary legislation between 2027 and 2029 when parliamentary time allows, followed by establishing the single regulator and concluding the legislative framework between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Require test results disclosure and transparency for construction products
a) that copies of all test results supporting any certificate issued by the construction regulator be included in the certificate; b) that manufacturers be required to provide the construction regulator with the full testing history of the product or material to which the certificate relates and inform the regulator of any material circumstances that may affect its performance; and c) manufacturers be required by law to provide on request copies of all test results that support claims about fire performance made for their products. (113.23)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that consultations on its Construction Products Reform White Paper and a General Safety Requirement had closed, with responses being considered to refine proposals ahead of publishing government replies later in the year (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department set out in September 2026 that primary and secondary legislation remains to be introduced between 2027 and 2029 when parliamentary time allows, with the regulatory framework to be finalised and a single regulator established between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Establish legal recognition and regulation of fire engineer profession
We therefore recommend that the profession of fire engineer be recognised and protected by law and that an independent body be established to regulate the profession, define the standards required for membership, maintain a register of members and regulate their conduct. (113.25)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that work remains in progress, having established the Fire Engineers Transitional Board to advise on the next phase of reform (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In the same September 2026 report, the department scheduled a public consultation for late 2026, with the introduction of primary legislation and the start of implementation expected between 2027 and 2029 when parliamentary time allows (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Increase Masters-level fire engineering course places
In order to speed up the creation of a body of professional fire engineers we also recommend that the government take urgent steps to increase the number of places on high-quality masters level courses in fire engineering accredited by the professional regulator. (113.25)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that £13 million in funding was available through an open competitive process for higher education institutions to provide studentships for masters places and expand fire engineering capacity (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department also stated in September 2026 that it had formed the Fire Engineers Transitional Board to provide expert advice during the reforms (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). According to the department's implementation timeline from September 2026, delivery of new courses is scheduled for the third quarter of 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Define competent fire engineer knowledge and skills
The development and maintenance of a statement of professional skills should ultimately be the responsibility of the body that regulates the profession, but pending the establishment of such a body we recommend that the government convene a group of practitioner and academic fire engineers and such other professionals as it thinks fit to produce an authoritative statement of the knowledge and skills to be expected of a competent fire engineer. Such a statement would also enable others in the construction industry to understand better the nature and importance of a fire engineer's work. (113.27)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation "is complete and has been fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously explained in February 2026 that an expert panel engaged in May drafted the authoritative statement on the expectations of a competent fire engineer, which the department published in December alongside a next steps paper (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Develop fire engineering courses for construction professionals
We also recommend that the government, working in collaboration with industry and professional bodies, encourage the development of courses in the principles of fire engineering for construction professionals and members of the fire and rescue services as part of their continuing professional development. (113.28)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation remains in progress, having established the Fire Engineers Transitional Board to provide expert advice on the next phase of reform (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that identifying a suitable approach to courses for other construction professionals is scheduled for late 2026, with implementation planned to begin between October and December 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Review architect education and training for fire safety
We recognise that both the Architects Registration Board and the Royal Institute of British Architects have taken steps since the Grenfell Tower fire to improve the education and training of architects. We recommend that they should review the changes already made to ensure they are sufficient in the light of our findings. (113.30)
The Inquiry recommended that professional bodies review post-Grenfell changes to architect education and training. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the Royal Institute of British Architects had updated its core continuing professional development curriculum and revised its Part 3 graduate attributes (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that updated validation procedures, competence test pilots, and a review of the practice code remained scheduled for late 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department reported that the Architects Registration Board had reviewed its changes, while a review of the institute's professional conduct code was expected to continue into 2027 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Require principal designer compliance statement at Gateway 2
We also recommend that it be made a statutory requirement that an application for building control approval in relation to the construction or refurbishment of a higher-risk building (Gateway 2) be supported by a statement from a senior manager of the principal designer under the Building Safety Act 2022 that all reasonable steps have been taken to ensure that on completion the building as designed will be as safe as is required by the Building Regulations. (113.31)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that it was analysing responses to its building professions call for evidence to consider options for improving senior accountability within dutyholder organisations (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department reported in September 2026 that work on an interim voluntary scheme remained paused, while its implementation timeline projected a public consultation on detailed options in 2027 and secondary legislation to introduce the recommendation if needed in 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Introduce licensing scheme for principal contractors
We therefore recommend that a licensing scheme operated by the construction regulator be introduced for principal contractors wishing to undertake the construction or refurbishment of higher-risk buildings and that it be a legal requirement that any application for building control approval for the construction or refurbishment of a higher-risk building (Gateway 2) be supported by a personal undertaking from a director or senior manager of the principal contractor to take all reasonable care to ensure that on completion and handover the building is as safe as is required by the Building Regulations. (113.33)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that work remained in progress, with a call for evidence closed and a review of the dutyholder regime underway to inform licensing and accountability rules for principal contractors on higher-risk buildings (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that review findings are expected in late 2026, followed by primary and secondary legislation between 2027 and 2029 when parliamentary time allows, with implementation planned between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Independent panel review of building control commercial interests
We therefore recommend that the government appoint an independent panel to consider whether it is in the public interest for building control functions to be performed by those who have a commercial interest in the process. (113.37)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been "fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously reported the recommendation as completed in May 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). In February 2026, it reported that an independent panel chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt had issued a call for evidence and was developing recommendations for publication (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Consider national building control authority
Accordingly, we recommend that the same panel consider whether all building control functions should be performed by a national authority. (113.38)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been "fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously reported in May 2026 that it had completed the recommendation (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). In February 2026, it noted that a panel chaired by Dame Judith Hackitt was developing recommendations following a call for evidence issued in July 2025 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Create cladding materials library for designers
In Chapter 112 we have referred to the Cladding Materials Library set up by the University of Queensland, which could form the basis of a valuable source of information for designers of buildings in general. We recommend that the construction regulator sponsor the development of a similar library, perhaps as part of a joint project with the University of Queensland, to provide a continuing resource for designers. (113.39)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that work to support the development of a construction library remains in progress, with an expert consultancy commissioned to deliver a digital discovery phase by September 2026 ahead of Alpha testing (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that responses to consultations on product reform proposals will be published later in the year, while legislation and the implementation of digital services remain scheduled for 2027 to 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Maintain public record of inquiry recommendations
We recommend that it be made a legal requirement for the government to maintain a publicly accessible record of recommendations made by select committees, coroners and public inquiries together with a description of the steps taken in response. If the government decides not to accept a recommendation, it should record its reasons for doing so. Scrutiny of its actions should be a matter for Parliament, to which it should be required to report annually. (113.40)
In September 2026, Baroness Blake of Leeds stated that the government had delivered the Inquiry's recommendation on transparency through new dashboards that publicly track progress across inquiries (Baroness Blake of Leeds, Sep 2026). The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government previously reported in February 2026 that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged after launching quarterly dashboards on GOV.UK covering several inquiries (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). The department added that it would continue to review the need for legislation while maintaining and improving the dashboards (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Establish mandatory fire risk assessor accreditation
We therefore recommend that the government establish a system of mandatory accreditation to certify the competence of fire risk assessors by setting standards for qualification and continuing professional development and such other measures as may be considered necessary or desirable. We think it necessary for an accreditation system to be mandatory in order to ensure the competence of all those who offer their services as fire risk assessors. (113.41)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that it was analysing responses to a consultation on the fire risk assessor profession, intending to publish its response between October and December 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department also stated in September 2026 that it plans to introduce primary legislation between 2027 and 2029 when parliamentary time allows, with a single regulator to be established and sector-specific accreditation requirements defined between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Standardise fire control switches and keys
Accordingly, we are not in a position to determine whether greater standardisation of fire control switches and keys is required. We therefore recommend that the government seeks urgent advice from the Building Safety Regulator and the National Fire Chiefs Council on the nature and scale of the problem and the appropriate response to it. (113.43)
The Inquiry recommended that the government seek urgent advice on standardising fire control switches and keys. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that the recommendation was "complete and has been fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had reported in February 2026 that the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) published updated national guidance on lift keys in October 2025 after consulting the Building Safety Regulator, with related learning materials expected before the end of March 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Require gas valve accessibility inspections every three years
We therefore recommend that every gas transporter be required by law to check the accessibility of each such valve on its system at least once every three years and to report the results of that inspection to the Health and Safety Executive as part of its gas safety case review. (113.44)
The Inquiry recommended requiring gas transporters to inspect valve accessibility every three years. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that the recommendation was "complete and has been fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously reported in February 2026 that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was analysing network operator data to inform targeted engagement on valve access (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). In February 2025, HM Government had accepted the recommendation in principle, agreeing that valve accessibility is key but noting that inspection intervals might need to vary (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Establish independent College of Fire and Rescue
We welcome the government’s ambition to create an independent College of Fire and Rescue expressed in the white paper Reforming our Fire and Rescue Service and we therefore recommend that the government establish such a college immediately with sufficient resources to provide the following services nationally: a. practical training at all levels supplementary to that provided by individual fire and rescue services; b. education in the form of lectures and seminars on different aspects of the work of the fire and rescue services in order to share experience and promote good practice; c. research into matters that may affect the work of the fire and rescue services, including major fires; d. the development of equipment, policies and procedures suitable for ensuring the effectiveness of fire and rescue services nationally and the safety of firefighters and the public; e. setting and maintaining national standards of managerial competence for senior managers, including control room managers, and providing management training for, and regular assessment of, senior ranks by reference to such standards. (113.51)
The Inquiry recommended establishing an independent College of Fire and Rescue. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that a public consultation on the college closed in July 2026, with work focused on analysing responses to inform a formal response and implementation plans (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In its September 2026 timeline, the department scheduled publication of its consultation response for early 2027, with primary legislation planned between 2027 and 2029 and implementation beginning between 2028 and 2029 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government accepted the recommendation in principle in February 2025, stating that establishing the college would require primary legislation (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
College to have permanent staff and training facilities
Although it is for the government to decide how the college should be constituted, we recommend that it should have a permanent staff of sufficient size to manage its operations and develop its functions in response to the demands of fire and rescue services nationally and the requirements of the board. The college will need access to permanent facilities, including facilities for practical training and education. We envisage that much of the training and education will be delivered and led by firefighters of suitable experience drawn as the occasion requires from fire and rescue services around the country. (113.53)
The Inquiry recommended that the fire college have permanent staff and practical training facilities. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that a public consultation on the college's aims, scope, and design closed in July 2026, though permanent staff and facilities were not mentioned (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In its September 2026 timeline, the department indicated that publishing a consultation response in early 2027, primary legislation between 2027 and 2029, and implementation from 2028 remain outstanding (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in principle in February 2025, stating that the college's structure and delivery would be captured by the consultation (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Inspect London Fire Brigade control room operations
In the meantime, we recommend that His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (“the Inspectorate”) inspect the LFB as soon as reasonably possible to assess and report on: a. the extent to which the control room is now integrated into the organisation; b. the effectiveness of the arrangements for identifying the training needs of control room staff, delivering effective training and recording its outcomes; c. the effectiveness of the control room generally; d. the ability of the control room to handle a large number of concurrent requests for advice and assistance from people directly affected by fires or other emergencies; and e. the quality and effectiveness of the arrangements for communication between the control room and the incident commander. (113.55)
The Inquiry recommended an inspection of London Fire Brigade control room operations. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously stated in February 2026 that His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) had evaluated control room arrangements using its February 2024 inspection, and that necessary assurance had concluded (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). In February 2025, HMICFRS accepted the recommendation, noting that its earlier inspection had shown performance improvements across the brigade (HMICFRS response, Feb 2025).
Inspect London Fire Brigade incident commander training
Steps have already been taken to respond to the criticisms made by the chairman in his Phase 1 report, but in order to reassure those who live in London we recommend that as soon as reasonably possible the Inspectorate inspect the LFB to examine and report on the arrangements it has in place for assessing the training of incident commanders at all levels and their continuing competence, whether by a process of revalidation or otherwise. (113.56)
The Inquiry recommended inspecting London Fire Brigade incident commander training and assessing continuing competence. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously stated in February 2026 that an inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS) covered the recommendation and necessary assurance had concluded (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). The inspectorate had accepted the recommendation in the February 2025 government response (HMICFRS response, Feb 2025).
Inspect London Fire Brigade information management systems
We therefore recommend that as soon as reasonably practicable the Inspectorate inspect the LFB to examine and report on its arrangements for collecting, storing and distributing information in accordance with section 7(2)(d) of the Fire and Rescue Services Act 2004, and in particular its arrangements for identifying high-risk residential buildings and collecting, storing and distributing information relating to them. (113.57)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously stated in February 2026 that an existing inspection by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services covered the measure and that necessary assurance had concluded (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). The inspectorate formally accepted the recommendation in February 2025 (HMICFRS response, Feb 2025).
London Fire Brigade to establish lessons learned process
We therefore recommend that the LFB establish effective standing arrangements for collecting, considering and effectively implementing lessons learned from previous incidents, inquests and investigations. Those arrangements should be as simple as possible, flexible and of a kind that will ensure that any appropriate changes in practice or procedure are implemented speedily. (113.58)
The Inquiry recommended establishing standing arrangements to learn lessons from past incidents and investigations. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation was complete and fully discharged, following the December 2025 publication of an Operational Learning Policy and an independent peer review by Kent Fire and Rescue Service that provided substantial assurance against fire standard criteria (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). London Fire Brigade had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, stating that it was improving incident data collection and introducing a new bulletin to share operational learning promptly (London Fire Brigade response, Feb 2025).
Consider higher power radios for breathing apparatus
We therefore recommend that fire and rescue services that continue to use low power intrinsically safe radios as part of breathing apparatus consider reserving them only for situations in which there is a real risk of igniting flammable gases and generally using radios of higher power, particularly in high-rise buildings. (113.59)
Relaying progress by the National Fire Chiefs Council, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that delivery of radio provision workshops was complete, with all fire and rescue services requiring support still expected to receive it by the end of December 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). Earlier, in February 2026, the department reported that the council had compiled a review of operational radio issues, and noted that the London Fire Brigade had completed rolling out new higher-power dual-function radios in December 2025 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Provide firefighters with digital radios
We therefore recommend that all fire and rescue services give consideration to providing all firefighters with digital radios. (113.60)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the National Fire Chiefs Council had delivered 48 guidance workshops to fire and rescue services, with completion of the radio provision workshop programme scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that all services requiring support are expected to receive it by the end of December 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). Earlier in February 2026, it reported that an initial council review of operational learning found no conclusive position on digital radio issues, though the London Fire Brigade had completed its rollout of dual-function handsets (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Train firefighters on communications loss response
Since radio communications are inherently unreliable in certain environments, we recommend that firefighters be trained to respond appropriately to the loss of communications and to understand how to restore them. (113.61)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete, following the approval and publication of amended operational guidance by the National Fire Chiefs Council (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department noted that supplementary training materials had received scrutiny panel approval on 1 September 2026, with publication expected imminently (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It added that support workshops were continuing across fire and rescue services, with all services requiring support expected to have received it by the end of December 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Provide water supply system training to all firefighters
That is a clear indication of a need for better training and we therefore recommend that basic training on the structure and operation of the water supply system, including the different types of hydrants in use and their functions, be given to all firefighters. Training should also be given on effective measures to increase water flow and pressure when necessary. (113.62)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department noted that approval for new micro-learn training content was granted on 1 September 2026 with publication expected imminently, following delays caused by complex flow rate calculations and gaps in existing training packages (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department had reported that the National Fire Chiefs Council commissioned the digital learning materials after identifying training gaps across services, while London Fire Brigade had completed its own water management training programme (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Establish water undertaker communication protocols
We therefore recommend that all fire and rescue services establish and periodically review an agreed protocol with the statutory water undertakers in their areas to enable effective communication between them in relation to the supply of water for firefighting purposes. (113.63)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department explained that the National Fire Chiefs Council had surveyed fire and rescue services, engaged with Ofwat, and updated national guidance on water provision for firefighting alongside Water UK (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). The Council had accepted the recommendation on behalf of all services in February 2025 (National Fire Chiefs Council response, Feb 2025).
Amend BS 750 for flow coefficient measurement
We therefore recommend that the British Standards Institution amend BS 750 to include a description of the circumstances under which the flow coefficient to which it refers in paragraph 10.2 is to be measured. (113.64)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the recommendation was complete and fully discharged following the publication of the amended BS 750 standard on 11 August, which included the Inquiry's recommended description for flow coefficient measurement (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously noted in February 2026 that a drafting panel had completed the consultation draft, with publication anticipated in the first quarter of that year (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). The British Standards Institution had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, initially expecting to publish the revised standard towards the end of 2025 (The British Standards Institution response, Feb 2025).
Consider guidance on firefighter initiative deviations
We cannot tell whether in any of those cases they would have been able to rescue people higher up the building if they had not done so, but we recommend that National Fire Chiefs Council consider whether, and if so in what circumstances, firefighters should be discouraged from departing from their instructions on their own initiative and provide appropriate training in how to respond to a situation of that kind. (113.65)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged, following the approval and publication of updated guidance and supporting training materials (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The National Fire Chiefs Council had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, noting that it would review existing guidance on crew briefing and debriefing and survey services to determine appropriate training measures (National Fire Chiefs Council response, Feb 2025).
Review Civil Contingencies Act intervention powers
We therefore recommend that the Act be reviewed and consideration be given to granting a designated Secretary of State the power to carry out the functions of a Category 1 responder in its place for a limited period of time. (113.67)
The Inquiry recommended reviewing legislation to allow ministers to temporarily take over responder functions. In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that the recommendation was complete after ministers decided no amendment to intervention powers was required (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that existing statutory powers were found sufficient, though the Cabinet Office will update public guidance and internal protocols (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, which led to a review of existing statutory and non-legislative intervention powers (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Require voluntary sector partnerships in contingency planning
Regulation 23 of the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 (Contingency Planning) Regulations 2005 requires a Category 1 responder to have regard when making its plans to the activities of relevant voluntary organisations. We therefore recommend that the regulation be amended to require Category 1 responders to establish and maintain partnerships with the voluntary, community and faith organisations in the areas in which they are responsible for preparing for and responding to emergencies. (113.68)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that it is finalising updates to the National Resilience Standards to strengthen voluntary sector partnership working while continuing an impact assessment into statutory options (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department scheduled this assessment and its decision on how to strengthen partnerships for the final quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department stated that a public consultation found no consensus in favour of regulatory change, adding that a final decision on amending regulations will be taken during the 2027 review of the Civil Contingencies Act (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Consolidate and update emergency preparedness guidance
The current guidance on preparing for emergencies is contained in several documents, all of which are unduly long and in some respects out of date. We recommend that the guidance be revised, reduced in length and consolidated in one document which lays greater emphasis on the need for those leading the response to consider the requirements for recovery, the need to identify vulnerable people, the importance of identifying and ensuring co-operation with voluntary, community and faith groups and is consistent with the Equality Act 2010. (113.69)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete, having concluded a guidance review and set out a programme to refresh and consolidate resilience guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that it had established a guidance management framework, with immediate priorities including updating the National Resilience Standards for Local Resilience Forums by the fourth quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, it had recorded earlier progress including revised guidance on supporting vulnerable people and an updated concept of operations (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Add humanitarian considerations as ninth response principle
We also recommend that regard for humanitarian considerations be expressly recognised by making it the ninth principle of effective response and recovery. (113.69)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that implementation remains in progress for delivery in 2026, with work underway to finalise a new Human Aspects Standard (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in the same update that it is analysing assessment data and will embed humanitarian considerations within the Lead Government Department Expectation Set due for publication in late 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). Earlier, in February 2026, it noted initial steps such as updating the Amber Book to recognise humanitarian considerations, following HM Government's acceptance of the recommendation in February 2025 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Revise London Gold arrangements guidance
Events demonstrated, however, that there is a need for a clearer understanding of the nature of the London Gold arrangements, in particular in situations in which a single borough is affected. We therefore recommend that the guidance on the operation of those arrangements be revised and that existing and newly appointed chief executives be given regular training to ensure they are familiar with its principles. (113.70)
Reporting on progress by London authorities in September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that publication of an updated London Local Authority Concept of Operations had been delayed, with drafting underway for release by the end of that month following completed reviews of Gold operating procedures (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously reported in February 2026 that revised operating procedures had been circulated in September 2025, while a regional Gold training programme for chief executives and senior officers had been established and embedded into the annual regional schedule (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Local resilience forums to adopt national standards
We therefore recommend that local resilience forums adopt national standards to ensure effective training, preparation and planning for emergencies and adopt independent auditing schemes to identify deficiencies and secure compliance. (113.71)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the government was consulting on updated National Resilience Standards for Local Resilience Forums, aiming to publish them in the third quarter of 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in the same September 2026 report that a new national peer review protocol had been tested through two pilots and would be launched later in 2026 alongside the refreshed standards (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It also explained in September 2026 that wider reforms across all 38 local resilience forums remained outstanding, with learning from five established trailblazer areas set to inform future implementation instead of completing rollout by the end of the year (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Verify training quality of Category 1 responders
We also recommend that a mechanism be introduced for independently verifying the frequency and quality of training provided by local authorities and other Category 1 responders. (113.71)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that it had begun testing proposals with the sector to establish a reporting process on training quality and frequency (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that publication of updated resilience guidance for local authorities had been delayed to the fourth quarter of 2026 to align with wider devolution and standards work (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). HM Government had previously accepted the recommendation in principle in February 2025, proposing revised national occupational standards and reporting frameworks across Category 1 responders (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Train all local authority employees on resilience
We therefore recommend that local authorities train all their employees, including chief executives, to regard resilience as an integral part of their responsibilities. (113.73)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that a training pilot for chief executives was completed in March 2026 and an e-learning package had been produced (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that it was reviewing a revised proposal from the Local Government Association to refine the programme ahead of wider rollout, alongside developing measures to monitor completion and reach (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It had previously reported in February 2026 that delivery of face-to-face training for an initial 60 chief executives was planned across three financial years through 2028/29, alongside making e-learning modules available to all local authorities in England (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Devise displaced person information recording methods
RBKC had no effective means of collecting and recording information about those who had been displaced from the tower and surrounding buildings, including those who were missing. Compiling reliable information of that kind is difficult and the challenges likely to be faced by local authority Category 1 responders will vary according to the nature of the emergency. We recommend that all local authorities devise methods of obtaining and recording information of that kind, if possible in electronic form, and practise putting them into operation under a variety of different circumstances. (113.74)
In September 2026, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported that implementation remains in progress as it works with the Local Government Association and UK Resilience Academy to update resilience guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated that it has begun testing proposals with the sector, but delayed publication of the guidance to the fourth quarter of 2026 to align with local government reorganisation programmes and updated National Resilience Standards (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Arrange emergency temporary accommodation provision
We recommend that all local authorities make such arrangements as are reasonably practicable for enabling them to place people in temporary accommodation at short notice and in ways that meet their personal, religious and cultural requirements. Such arrangements should, as far as possible, involve local providers of social housing. (113.75)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously recorded the measure as completed in May 2026, following work throughout late 2025 and early 2026 to update civil emergency guidance clarifying local authority duties (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). In February 2025, HM Government supported the proposal, noting that local authorities already maintain a statutory obligation under the Housing Act 1996 to rehouse people displaced by an emergency (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Include financial assistance in contingency plans
We recommend that all local authorities include in their contingency plans arrangements for providing immediate financial assistance to people affected by an emergency. (113.76)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was "complete and have been fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). It had earlier recorded the measure as completed in May 2026 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). In February 2026, the department reported ongoing work with local authorities and partner departments to reflect civil emergency duties in revised guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). HM Government initially supported the recommendation in February 2025, committing to work with the Local Government Association to integrate financial support arrangements into local contingency plans (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Plan for key worker availability in emergencies
We also recommend that as part of their planning for emergencies local authorities give detailed consideration to the availability of key workers and the role they are expected to play so that suitable contingency arrangements can be made to ensure, as far as possible, continuity of support. (113.76)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that the recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously stated in May 2026 that it had completed the recommendation alongside four other response and recovery measures (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). Prior to that, in February 2026, the department reported that it was working with local authorities and sector associations to reflect key worker duties in updated emergency guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026).
Establish effective emergency communication methods
We recommend that as part of their emergency planning local authorities make effective arrangements for continuing communication with those who need assistance using the most suitable technology and a range of languages appropriate to the area. (113.77)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been "fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously reported the recommendation as completed in May 2026, following ongoing work to clarify civil emergency responsibilities in updated guidance for local authorities (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). HM Government had supported the recommendation in February 2025, noting that local authorities already held relevant obligations under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Use modern communication for public emergency information
We recommend that all local authorities include in their plans for responding to emergencies arrangements for providing information to the public by whatever combination of modern methods of communication are likely to be most effective for the areas for which they are responsible. (113.78)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been "fully discharged" (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department had previously stated in May 2026 that the recommendation was completed, following work to review emergency preparedness guidance alongside local authorities (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, May 2026). In February 2025, HM Government supported the recommendation, noting that local authorities already had obligations under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004 that would be clarified in updated guidance (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).
Clarify casualty bureau purpose and limitations
In future, to avoid confusion, wasted effort and frustration we also recommend that what in the past has been called by the police a “casualty bureau” be described in a way that makes it clear that it does not provide information to the public about people affected by the emergency. (113.78)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department previously confirmed in February 2026 that the National Police Chiefs' Council had delivered the recommendation to make clear that casualty bureaus do not provide information to the public about people affected by emergencies (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). In February 2025, the council accepted the recommendation and stated it was fully discharged, having updated standard operating procedures and worked with communication leads and local government to ensure clear public messaging (National Police Chiefs' Council response, Feb 2025).
Reconsider Phase 1 recommendations in light of Phase 2
We therefore recommend that further consideration be given to the recommendations made in the Phase 1 report in the light of our findings in this report. (113.82)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government reported in September 2026 that this recommendation was complete and had been fully discharged, confirming that further consideration had been given to the Phase 1 recommendations with clear next steps identified (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026; Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). The department stated in September 2026 that an outstanding element under recommendation 60 remains open, as mandating person-centred fire risk assessments inside residents' flats requires primary legislation when Parliamentary time allows (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026).
Reconsider LGA Guide paragraph 79.11 advice
We also recommend that the advice contained in paragraph 79.11 of the LGA Guide be reconsidered. (113.83)
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated in September 2026 that this recommendation is complete and has been fully discharged (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Sep 2026). In February 2026, the department reported that it closed the recommendation after laying residential evacuation regulations in July 2025 and publishing replacement guidance that December (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Feb 2026). HM Government had accepted the recommendation in February 2025, noting that the original advice had been redacted in 2021 (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government response, Feb 2025).