Residential Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs)

When it comes to fire safety, one size doesn’t fit all—especially in residential buildings.

Some residents may have mobility issues, visual or hearing impairments, or cognitive difficulties that make it harder to evacuate during a fire.

That’s where Personal Emergency Evacuation Plans (PEEPs) come in.

While PEEPs are well-established in workplaces and commercial buildings, they are now being discussed more widely in residential settings, especially since the Grenfell Tower Inquiry highlighted the need for better support for vulnerable residents during emergencies.

Let’s explore what PEEPs are, who needs them, and how they apply in residential buildings.

What is a PEEP?

A Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (PEEP) is a tailored plan that outlines how a specific individual who may struggle to evacuate unaided will get to safety during an emergency, such as a fire. It’s designed to take into account their specific needs and the layout of the building.

A PEEP should detail:

• The person’s evacuation route
• Any equipment or assistance required (e.g. evacuation chairs)
• Who will assist them, if anyone
• Communication methods (for those with hearing or visual impairments)
• Any risks or barriers to safe evacuation

In workplaces, PEEPs are typically created by the employer with the employee. But in residential settings, things are more complex.

Why Are Residential PEEPs Important?

In residential buildings—especially blocks of flats, sheltered housing, or care homes—some residents may not be able to leave the building independently in an emergency. This can include older people, disabled residents, or those with long-term health conditions.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry made strong recommendations about identifying residents who may need help in an emergency and putting plans in place. The tragedy showed that simply relying on a “stay put” policy isn’t always enough when conditions change quickly.

Residential PEEPs are a way to ensure that no one is left behind, and that fire safety arrangements are inclusive.

Is There a Legal Requirement for PEEPs in Flats?

As of now, there is no blanket legal requirement for responsible persons in general purpose blocks of flats to create PEEPs for residents. However, in specialist housing settings—like care homes, extra care facilities, or housing for people with disabilities—PEEPs are expected and often required.

The government has consulted on introducing new duties to provide PEEPs in residential settings, especially for high-rise buildings. These proposals are still under review, but the direction of travel is clear: greater accountability and preparation for vulnerable residents.

While not yet mandatory in all buildings, best practice strongly supports offering PEEPs in any block where vulnerable individuals are identified.

What About General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs)?

If creating individual PEEPs is not practical, some landlords and managing agents use General Emergency Evacuation Plans (GEEPs) instead. A GEEP outlines how people in the building in general can evacuate, including options for those with limited mobility.

GEEPs don’t replace PEEPs where one is needed, but they can be useful in planning for buildings with a changing or unknown population—like hotels or student halls.

Challenges in Residential Settings

Creating and implementing PEEPs in residential buildings comes with unique challenges:

• Consent and privacy: You can’t force residents to disclose health conditions or accept help.
• Staffing: Most residential blocks don’t have 24/7 staff, so relying on others for evacuation support is difficult.
• Layout and access: Many older buildings don’t have evacuation lifts or step-free access.
• Communication: Ensuring everyone understands the plan—especially in diverse communities—is vital.

Despite these challenges, landlords and responsible persons still have a duty to consider the needs of all residents, and to take proportionate steps to protect them.

How ESI Can Help

At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we support housing providers, property managers, and landlords across Farnborough, Camberley, Guildford, Reading, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey, and Berkshire region with fire safety compliance.

We can help you:

• Assess whether PEEPs are needed in your building
• Review your fire risk assessment in light of vulnerable occupants
• Develop appropriate strategies and record-keeping procedures
• Understand your responsibilities under the Fire Safety Order and related regulations

If you’re unsure how to manage PEEPs or want help developing a practical approach, get in touch with ESI today. We’re here to help you keep all residents safe—no matter their needs.

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