Fire Safety Trends Every Property Manager Should Know for 2026
Fire safety continues to shift quickly and 2025 is already shaping up to be a year of change. Working across homes, heritage buildings and mixed use sites in and around Chester, we are seeing clear trends emerging that affect responsible persons and property managers of every size. Some are driven by technology, others by behaviour, and some simply by the age of our buildings.
Here is our view from the ground on what you can expect this year.
1. Lithium battery risks keep rising
E bikes and e scooters are now part of everyday life and their batteries remain a leading cause of serious fires. We often find improvised charging setups, batteries left in escape routes and chargers running overnight.
What this means for property managers
Clear guidance for residents and sensible storage arrangements are becoming essential. Simple precautions make a big difference.
2. Insurers are getting more demanding
Insurers are paying closer attention to fire safety compliance during renewals. We are seeing more requests for evidence of recent assessments, maintenance records and proof of remedial work.
What this means for property managers
Good documentation is now a major part of risk management. If your paperwork is tidy, your conversations with insurers will be easier.
3. Older buildings need focused attention
Many of the buildings we work with, particularly in historic areas like Chester, have original features that are now past their best. Compartmentation, fire doors and alarm systems often need investment to bring them up to modern standards.
What this means for property managers
Expect more scrutiny of ageing stock. An early review is always cheaper than a rushed fix following a visit from the fire service.
4. Hybrid working is back in play
Hybrid working has settled into a steady pattern and many residents now spend at least part of the week working from home. That means more people in their flats/HMO rooms during office hours, more appliances running at the same time, and greater use of communal areas throughout the day.
What this means for property managers
This shift changes evacuation planning and increases the importance of routine checks. Daytime drills may become relevant again.
5. Modern detection is becoming the norm
Addressable alarms and wireless detection systems are now more affordable and widely used. They give clearer information during activations and reduce the cost of fault finding.
What this means for property managers
If you are maintaining an older system, an upgrade may now be better value than repeated repairs.
6. Behavioural risk is under the spotlight
Despite all the technology, many fire safety issues still come down to behaviour. Propped open fire doors, cluttered corridors and blocked exits remain common across the region.
What this means for property managers
Regular engagement with residents and simple refresher training make a real difference. Fire safety relies as much on habits as equipment.
7. Digital record keeping is becoming expected
Fire services and insurers now expect clearer, more accessible evidence of compliance. Digital logs and shared records are replacing paper folders.
What this means for property managers
Keeping everything in one place speeds up audits and helps demonstrate that you are on top of your responsibilities.
Conclusion
From changing resident behaviour to better detection technology, fire safety in 2025 is defined by rising expectations and ageing buildings. For property managers, the best approach is to stay ahead of the trends and keep your strategy updated.
Fletcher Risk is based in Chester and supports clients across the wider region with fire risk assessments, training and ongoing fire safety guidance. If you would like support with any of the topics in this article, we are always happy to help.
Disclaimer
This article is for general information only. It does not provide legal advice or replace a formal fire risk assessment. Every building is different and responsible persons should seek professional guidance tailored to their property. Fletcher Risk accepts no liability for actions taken based on this summary without a full assessment of the site.
Fletcher Risk Team - 2 December 2025