Who is the Responsible Person for fire safety?
The Responsible Person is the person or organisation with legal responsibility for fire safety in premises covered by the Fire Safety Order. This can include employers, owners, landlords, occupiers, facilities managers, building managers or managing agents.
Reviewed: 20 August 2026
This guidance is general information. The correct fire safety measures depend on the premises, its use, occupants, fire risk assessment and applicable legal duties.
More than one Responsible Person
GOV.UK states that where more than one responsible person exists, they must work together to meet their responsibilities.
Core duties
Responsible persons must carry out and review a fire risk assessment, put in place and maintain appropriate fire safety measures and manage information and training where relevant.
Recording duties
Section 156 changes that came into force on 1 October 2023 expanded recording and information duties.
Using contractors
Using a fire risk assessor, alarm company or managing agent can provide competence and practical support, but responsible persons should still ensure actions are completed and records retained.
Frequently asked questions
Can a managing agent be a Responsible Person?
Yes, where they have control of premises or contractual duties relating to maintenance, safety or repair.
Can there be more than one Responsible Person?
Yes. They must cooperate and coordinate to meet their duties.
Sources and further reading
For legal duties and technical standards, use the current primary source and professional advice where required.