Skip to content
Compliance Summit
CONTACT US
Compliance Summit
CONTACT US

Fire Safety News, Advice and Articles

All articles

Contact an Expert

Contact an Expert

Company Number 08765695

Office Locations

@ 2026 Ventro

bottom-arrow
Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme continues to progress as the Scottish Government works to identify and address fire safety risks, particularly those associated with external wall systems in residential buildings. Central to this programme is the Single Building Assessment (SBA), a standardised assessment designed to identify risks associated with external wall cladding and establish what remedial action may be required. With further funding allocated, assessments underway across Scotland and an increasing focus on progressing buildings towards remediation, understanding the SBA process is becoming increasingly important for housing associations, local authorities, building owners and property managers. What is Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme? Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme was established to identify, assess and address fire safety risks associated with potentially unsafe external wall cladding systems on residential buildings. The programme primarily focuses on multi-residential domestic buildings measuring 11 metres or more in height, subject to relevant eligibility criteria. Its objectives include identifying buildings potentially affected by unsafe cladding, establishing the level of fire safety risk, supporting appropriate mitigation measures and enabling remediation where necessary. The programme is supported by the Housing (Cladding Remediation) (Scotland) Act 2024, which introduced a statutory framework for Single Building Assessments, remediation and the Cladding Assurance Register. For building owners, the programme provides a structured approach to understanding external wall risks and determining what action may be necessary to improve building safety. What is a Single Building Assessment? A Single Building Assessment is a comprehensive assessment of the risks to human life created or exacerbated by a building's external wall cladding system. Unlike a general building condition survey, an SBA specifically considers external wall fire safety risks and identifies whether mitigation or remediation work is necessary. Under the Scottish Government's published specification, an SBA incorporates two key components: Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW): An assessment of the external wall construction and associated fire safety risks. Fire Risk Assessment (FRA): An assessment of the building's wider fire safety arrangements to support an understanding of the risks associated with the external wall system. Together, these assessments provide a more complete understanding of the building's fire safety position and help determine the most appropriate next steps. SBAs must be undertaken by competent, appropriately qualified professionals and completed in accordance with the Scottish Government's published specification and standards. Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme Progress in 2026 The Scottish Government's latest quarterly management information, published on 15th September 2026, provides an important update on the progress of Single Building Assessments and cladding remediation across Scotland. As of 30th June 2026, the programme reported: 1,799 expressions of interest submitted through the Single Open Call. 956 expressions of interest identified as likely to be eligible for Scottish Government funding for an SBA. 219 buildings with Scottish Government funded SBAs underway, an increase of 70 since March 2026. 16 Scottish Government funded SBAs completed, with all 16 identifying recommendations for remediation work. £31.5 million transferred to local authorities in March 2026 to support assessments and associated mitigation measures. These figures demonstrate increasing assessment activity, although the number of completed SBAs highlights the scale of work still required. For housing providers and building owners, this reinforces the importance of preparing building information, understanding assessment requirements and establishing clear routes towards remediation. Who Is Eligible for a Single Building Assessment in Scotland? The Scottish Government's Cladding Remediation Programme focuses on multi-residential buildings with external wall cladding systems that may present a risk to residents. However, not every residential building automatically qualifies for a Single Building Assessment (SBA) or government funding. To fall within the programme's scope, a building must meet the following criteria: Building type: The property must contain at least one dwelling. Buildings containing a mixture of residential and commercial premises may also qualify. Building height: The building must measure 11 metres or more in height, calculated in accordance with the Scottish Government's assessment criteria. Construction date: The building must have been constructed or undergone relevant development between 1 June 1992 and 1 June 2022. External wall construction: The building must incorporate an external wall cladding system that requires consideration under the programme. These criteria establish which buildings fall within the programme's scope. However, inclusion does not automatically mean that a building has unsafe cladding or requires extensive remediation. What Happens After a Single Building Assessment? Completing an SBA is an important milestone, but it is not necessarily the end of the building safety process. Where risks are identified, the assessment will establish the work required to eliminate or mitigate those risks. Depending on the findings, subsequent activity may include: Reviewing the assessment findings: Understanding the identified risks and recommendations. Determining remediation requirements: Establishing the necessary scope of works and any interim safety measures. Planning and procurement: Developing an appropriate programme for remediation, including identifying responsibilities and funding arrangements. Completing remedial works: Undertaking the required improvements to address identified external wall risks. Recording and demonstrating compliance: Maintaining the evidence needed to demonstrate that the relevant assessment and remediation requirements have been satisfied. The Housing (Cladding Remediation) (Scotland) Act 2024 also established the Cladding Assurance Register, which records information relating to qualifying buildings, assessments and remediation. For building owners, maintaining accurate records throughout the assessment and remediation process is essential. How Can Ventro Group Support Single Building Assessments in Scotland? Through our sister company Firntec, we are authorised by the Scottish Government to undertake Single Building Assessments (SBAs) as part of Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme. As an authorised SBA provider, Firntec has provided formal assurance that its assessment and reporting teams meet the competency requirements established by the Scottish Government. This means Firntec can undertake assessments eligible for government funding, subject to the building and applicant meeting the relevant funding criteria. Our experienced team of fire engineers, building surveyors and compliance specialists provides comprehensive Single Building Assessments, helping building owners understand external wall fire safety risks and establish clear, evidence based recommendations for remediation. Beyond the assessment stage, Ventro Group can also support the delivery of remedial works identified through the Single Building Assessment. Our nationwide fire safety teams can undertake a range of improvements, including fire stopping, compartmentation, fire door remediation and replacement, and other passive and active fire protection works where required. By combining Firntec's specialist assessment expertise with Ventro's wider remediation and compliance capabilities, we can provide building owners with a coordinated approach from identifying fire safety risks through to addressing them. This helps simplify contractor management, improve communication and support the timely completion of necessary works. With an established presence in Scotland and nationwide delivery capabilities, Ventro Group can support housing associations, local authorities and property managers throughout their building safety journey, from initial assessments to remediation and ongoing compliance. Working Towards Safer Buildings Scotland's Cladding Remediation Programme represents an important commitment to addressing external wall fire safety risks across the country's residential building stock. While the latest figures demonstrate progress in commencing Single Building Assessments, they also highlight the significant amount of assessment and remediation activity still required. For building owners and housing providers, the priority should be understanding their buildings, preparing for the assessment process and ensuring that identified risks are addressed appropriately. If you require support with Single Building Assessments, building compliance or remediation planning, contact Ventro Group to discuss your requirements today. Frequently Asked Questions What is a Single Building Assessment in Scotland? A Single Building Assessment is a standardised assessment used to identify risks to human life associated with a building's external wall cladding system and determine what work may be required to eliminate or mitigate those risks. Are Single Building Assessments mandatory in Scotland? SBAs form part of Scotland's statutory cladding remediation framework for buildings within the relevant scope. However, whether an individual building requires an SBA depends on its circumstances and applicable programme and legal requirements. Not every residential building requires one. Who pays for a Single Building Assessment? Funding may be available through the Scottish Government's Cladding Remediation Programme for eligible buildings. In other cases, developers may be responsible for funding assessments and remediation. The appropriate funding route depends on the building and relevant arrangements. Does a Single Building Assessment mean cladding must be removed? No. An SBA identifies the risks associated with an external wall system and recommends proportionate measures to eliminate or mitigate them. Full cladding removal is not automatically required in every case. What happens if an SBA identifies unsafe cladding? Where an SBA identifies relevant risks, it will recommend appropriate mitigation or remediation measures. Building owners and other responsible parties must then establish the necessary actions, responsibilities and arrangements for progressing the work. Can any fire safety consultant undertake an SBA? No. An SBA must be undertaken by professionals who satisfy the competency requirements in the Scottish Government's specification. Where Scottish Government funding is sought, the assessment provider must also meet the programme's authorised provider requirements.
The Interim Measures Alarm Fund (IMAF) provides government funding towards the cost of installing common fire alarm systems in eligible residential buildings in England where an interim measures alarm is required. Managed and delivered by Homes England, the fund was introduced in April 2026 to reduce reliance on waking watch arrangements and provide a more sustainable interim fire safety solution while longer-term remediation or mitigation works are completed. For building owners, Responsible Persons and Responsible Entities, understanding whether a building qualifies, as well as having the right technical evidence available is an important first step. What is the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? The Interim Measures Alarm Fund is a £62.7 million government fund designed to support the installation of common fire alarm systems in residential buildings with identified fire safety risks. It replaced the Waking Watch Replacement Fund for new applications from 1 April 2026 and is intended to support buildings requiring interim fire safety measures while permanent remediation or mitigation works progress. The fund can cover reasonable capital costs associated with installing a common fire alarm system, including equipment, wiring, detectors, panels, installation labour, commissioning and testing. Importantly, an existing waking watch is not a prerequisite for applying to the fund. Who Can Apply for the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Both private and social sector applicants can apply for IMAF funding. To apply, you must be a Responsible Entity, Responsible Person or an authorised representative acting on behalf of a Responsible Entity. The building itself must: Be located in England Contain two or more dwellings Be residential or student accommodation Have appropriate technical documentation identifying the need for an interim measures alarm Leaseholders and residents cannot apply directly and should instead contact their building owner or managing agent. Hotels are not eligible for funding through the scheme. Buildings that have already received funding, or have a funding application pending, through the IMAF or the Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2022 or 2023 are also excluded. Does a Building Need to Have a Waking Watch to Apply? No. A building does not need to have an existing waking watch in place to apply for IMAF funding. The key requirement is evidence demonstrating the need for an interim measures alarm. This is an important distinction for Responsible Persons and building owners assessing their options. The purpose of the fund is to support appropriate interim fire safety measures while underlying fire safety risks are being addressed – not simply to reimburse buildings already paying for a waking watch. What Evidence Do You Need to Apply for IMAF Funding? Applicants need to provide information about the building, the Responsible Entity and other relevant organisations involved in its ownership and management. Crucially, Homes England also requires supporting evidence demonstrating the need for an interim alarm. This could include a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA), Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW), communication from a Competent Person or notices and correspondence from a local regulator such as a local authority or Fire and Rescue Service. Where somebody is applying on behalf of the Responsible Entity, evidence confirming their authority to do so will also be required. Applicants should therefore establish the technical basis for requiring an interim alarm before progressing through the application process. How Do You Apply for the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Applications are made through the online IMAF application form provided by Homes England. The initial form asks for information about the building and the organisations responsible for it. Homes England states that the application should take around 30 minutes to complete and must be completed in one session, as progress cannot currently be saved. Following submission, applicants will need to provide the supporting technical evidence demonstrating why an interim measures alarm is required. Homes England then undertakes legal, technical and project-related due diligence. This can include checks on building ownership and eligibility, the Responsible Entity, company directors and signatories, alongside a review of the technical information supplied. What Happens if Your Building is Eligible? Once eligibility has been confirmed, the applicant can obtain a quotation for the required works. However, there is an important requirement: only companies appointed to the Homes England IMAF supplier panel can provide quotations and undertake works funded through the scheme. The selected supplier will need access to the relevant documentation and the building to develop a comprehensive scope and quotation. The quote and proposed scope are then submitted to Homes England for review. Homes England will assess whether the proposed works meet the programme requirements and whether the costs are reasonable and consistent with programme benchmarks. Once the costs and scope have been agreed, Homes England will issue a Grant Funding Agreement. What Happens Once Funding is Approved? The Grant Funding Agreement must be signed by the Responsible Entity before the works are formally instructed. The applicant will then need to provide Homes England with the agreed specification, signed contract and anticipated start and completion dates. Any relevant regulatory approvals must also be identified, including Building Safety Regulator approvals where applicable. Once installed, the alarm must be appropriately commissioned and the required completion evidence submitted to Homes England. This includes a commissioning certificate, updated Fire Risk Assessment reflecting the alarm installation, final invoice, evidence of communication with residents and leaseholders and applicable regulatory sign-off. Grant funding is paid following completion of the works and approval of the required evidence. What Does the Interim Measures Alarm Fund Pay For? The fund is intended to cover reasonable capital costs associated with installing an eligible common fire alarm system. This can include the alarm equipment itself, detectors, panels, wiring, associated installation labour, commissioning and testing. There are also costs that the fund does not cover. These include waking watch costs, project management and administration fees, ongoing maintenance and repair, alarm removal or conversion, residual fire wardens and retrospective costs for alarm systems that have already been installed. Building owners considering an application should therefore understand which elements of the proposed project are eligible before works begin. Is IMAF Funding a Replacement for Remediation? No. An alarm installed through IMAF is an interim measure and does not remove the requirement to address the underlying fire safety risks within the building. Homes England makes clear that longer-term remediation or mitigation should continue. The alarm provides an interim solution designed to improve resident safety and, where appropriate, reduce reliance on waking watch arrangements while that work progresses. Responsibility for the fire safety of the building also remains with the Responsible Person. How Can Ventro Help with the Interim Measures Alarm Fund? Navigating the IMAF process involves more than selecting and installing an alarm. Applicants need to understand the risks within their building, establish the technical requirements of the proposed system and ensure the eventual installation meets the required standards. Ventro can support clients through the technical and delivery requirements associated with interim fire alarm measures, from reviewing existing fire safety information and understanding the requirements of the building through to system design, installation, commissioning and the evidence required following completion. For organisations responsible for multiple residential buildings, we can also help assess portfolios to understand where interim measures may be required and support the prioritisation of buildings requiring further investigation or action. Where funding is being sought through IMAF, works funded by the scheme must follow the Homes England process and be delivered through an approved IMAF supplier. Ventro Voice Interim measures have an important role in protecting residents, but they should never become the long-term solution to an unresolved building safety risk. The IMAF provides building owners with an opportunity to move away from potentially costly waking watch arrangements and introduce an effective common alarm system while permanent remediation progresses. The important part is understanding the risk first. Every building is different, and the appropriate solution needs to be informed by competent assessment, the existing fire strategy and the specific characteristics of the building. At Ventro, our focus is on helping clients understand what needs to happen next and delivering the technical fire safety solutions required to keep residents safe while longer-term building safety programmes progress. Frequently Asked Questions About the Interim Measures Alarm Fund Who is eligible for IMAF funding? Private and social sector Responsible Entities, Responsible Persons and authorised representatives can apply for eligible residential and student accommodation buildings in England containing two or more dwellings. Do you need a waking watch to apply for IMAF? No. Having an existing waking watch is not a prerequisite. Applicants need appropriate technical evidence identifying the need for an interim measures alarm. Can leaseholders apply directly? No. Individual residents and leaseholders cannot apply directly. They should contact their building owner or managing agent. What evidence is required for an IMAF application? Applicants need supporting evidence demonstrating the need for an interim alarm. This could include an FRA, FRAEW, communication from a Competent Person or correspondence or notices from a relevant regulator. Can I choose any fire alarm contractor? No. Once eligibility has been confirmed, quotations and funded works must be provided by a company on the Homes England IMAF supplier panel. Does IMAF pay for waking watch costs? No. IMAF does not fund waking watch costs. Its purpose is to fund eligible capital costs associated with installing an appropriate common fire alarm system. Can I claim for a fire alarm that has already been installed? No. IMAF does not provide retrospective funding for alarm systems that have already been installed. Does receiving IMAF funding remove the need for remediation? No. The alarm is an interim fire safety measure. Any necessary permanent remediation or mitigation of the underlying building safety risks must continue. Need Support with Interim Fire Safety Measures? If your organisation is responsible for residential buildings requiring interim fire safety measures, Ventro can help you understand the technical requirements and determine the appropriate next steps. From assessment and system requirements through to installation, commissioning and ongoing fire safety compliance, our teams support building owners and Responsible Persons in managing fire safety across individual buildings and complex residential portfolios. Speak to Ventro about your building's interim fire safety requirements.
Management, Maintenance & Replacement of Cold Water Storage Tanks Cold water storage tanks play an important role in many large buildings and across estates, helping maintain a reliable water supply across properties with significant or fluctuating demand. They are commonly found across hospitals, residential blocks, educational facilities, hotels and large commercial buildings. However, their size, location and connection to extensive water distribution systems mean they also need to be carefully managed as part of an effective water hygiene programme. Poorly maintained tanks can contribute to conditions that encourage bacterial growth, including Legionella, making regular inspection, monitoring and maintenance essential. Why Cold Water Storage Tanks Require Careful Management The objective of a cold water storage tank is relatively simple: store sufficient wholesome water and supply it throughout the building when required. In a large building, however, the wider system can become considerably more complicated. A single property may contain multiple tanks, extensive distribution pipework, numerous outlets and areas with significantly different patterns of water usage. If water is stored for too long, temperatures increase or contamination enters the tank, water quality can deteriorate. Problems within a storage tank can subsequently affect the wider system it supplies. This makes understanding the condition, operation and usage of each tank an important part of managing water hygiene risk. What Temperature Should a Cold Water Storage Tank Be? Cold water should generally be stored and distributed at below 20°C to help control the risk of Legionella growth. Temperature is one of the key considerations when controlling Legionella risk. Where stored water becomes warmer, particularly when combined with stagnation or low turnover, conditions can become increasingly favourable for bacterial growth. Large buildings can present particular challenges. Tanks may be situated in warm plant rooms or roof spaces, located close to heat-producing equipment or affected by inadequate insulation. The size of the tank itself can also become a problem if storage capacity significantly exceeds actual building demand. Regular temperature monitoring can help identify these issues and allow corrective action to be taken before they become an ongoing compliance concern. Is Your Tank Storing More Water Than You Actually Need? Oversized cold water storage tanks are an issue that can sometimes be overlooked. Buildings and their usage change over time. A tank originally designed to serve a particular occupancy level or operational requirement may no longer reflect how the property is being used today. If capacity is considerably greater than demand, water turnover can reduce and increase the potential for stagnation. For organisations managing large estates, reviewing tank capacity alongside current building demand can therefore be just as important as inspecting the physical condition of the tank. When Should a Cold Water Storage Tank Be Replaced? A cold water storage tank may need replacing when its condition, design, capacity or configuration can no longer support effective water hygiene management. Routine inspection, cleaning and maintenance can help keep cold water storage tanks in good condition, but there may come a point where remedial work is no longer the most appropriate solution. Replacement may need to be considered where a tank has significantly deteriorated, is showing signs of corrosion or leakage, is difficult to clean effectively or its existing design makes appropriate water hygiene management difficult. Changes in building occupancy or demand can also mean an existing tank is no longer appropriately sized for the system it serves. For large and operational buildings, tank replacement requires careful planning. The new system needs to reflect current and anticipated demand while maintaining water supply and minimising disruption to building users. Access, installation constraints, tank configuration, insulation and integration with the existing distribution system all need to be considered. Replacing an ageing or unsuitable tank also provides an opportunity to address historic issues within the system. Rather than replacing like-for-like automatically, organisations can review storage capacity, improve water turnover and introduce a solution better suited to the way the building operates today. What Should Be Checked During a Cold Water Storage Tank Inspection? Cold water storage tanks should be included within an appropriate water hygiene inspection and monitoring regime. Inspections should consider the overall condition and cleanliness of the tank, whether lids and screens are adequately fitted, signs of corrosion or deterioration, insulation, water temperature and evidence of sediment, debris or contamination. The configuration of the system should also be considered. Poorly positioned inlet and outlet connections, for example, can create areas where water circulation is limited. Importantly, inspections shouldn't simply identify a problem. Findings should feed into a clear process for prioritising, completing and recording any necessary remedial actions. How Do You Manage Cold Water Storage Tanks Across a Large Estate? For organisations responsible for multiple large buildings, managing individual tanks is only part of the challenge. Housing providers, NHS organisations, universities, local authorities and facilities management teams may be responsible for hundreds of water hygiene assets spread across multiple sites. Each building can have different risk assessments, monitoring frequencies, remedial requirements and servicing dates. Without effective oversight, it can become difficult to establish where risks exist, whether actions have been completed and which assets require attention next. This is why water compliance needs to be viewed as an ongoing management programme rather than a series of isolated inspections. From Assessment to Ongoing Compliance An effective water hygiene programme should provide a clear understanding of the condition of the system, identify potential risks and ensure appropriate control measures remain effective. At Ventro Environmental, we support organisations with the management of water compliance across individual buildings and complex estates. Our approach covers Legionella risk assessments, water monitoring, cold water storage tank inspection, maintenance and replacement, treatment plant and equipment, remedial works and planned preventative maintenance. By bringing assessment, remedial action and ongoing monitoring together, we help clients maintain greater visibility of water hygiene risks across their buildings and demonstrate that identified actions are being appropriately managed. Our Assess. Address. Compliant. Maintain. approach provides a clear route to ongoing environmental compliance. We assess your buildings to identify risks, address any issues through appropriate remedial works, ensure your systems are compliant, and provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to keep them there. Assess Address Compliant Maintain Ventro Voice Cold water storage tanks can easily become an overlooked part of a building’s infrastructure, particularly across large and complex estates. But simply having a programme of inspections isn’t enough. Building usage changes, water demand changes and systems age, meaning a tank that was suitable when installed may no longer be right for the building today. We believe good water compliance means looking at the bigger picture. That means understanding how water moves through the building, identifying where risks are developing and taking action – whether that’s improved monitoring, remedial works, maintenance or complete tank replacement. Need support with cold water storage tanks across your estate? Ventro Environmental can support with tank inspections, monitoring, remedial works, maintenance and replacement as part of a wider water hygiene compliance programme.
Ventro Group has achieved BAS-IP Tier 1 Partner Status, strengthening our capability to deliver advanced door entry, access control and intercom solutions across the UK. The partner status follows the successful completion of BAS-IP’s intensive two-day Technical Partner Training Programme in Prague, attended by representatives from across Ventro Group. The programme provided in-depth technical training across the BAS-IP product range, installation requirements, system configuration, commissioning and ongoing support. Achieving Tier 1 status demonstrates a high level of technical competency and product knowledge and establishes Ventro Group as an approved BAS-IP partner for the supply, installation, commissioning and ongoing support of BAS-IP solutions throughout the UK. What does BAS-IP Tier 1 Partner Status mean for our clients? Our Tier 1 Partner Status gives Ventro Group direct access to manufacturer expertise, technical resources and the latest BAS-IP product developments. For our clients, this provides additional assurance that BAS-IP systems are being specified, installed and supported by a trained and approved partner with direct access to the manufacturer. It also strengthens our ability to support projects from initial system design and product selection through to installation, commissioning and ongoing maintenance. This is particularly valuable for organisations managing large or complex estates where security, reliability and long-term system support are essential. Strengthening our security and access control expertise BAS-IP provides IP-based solutions across door entry, intercom and access control, supporting increasingly connected approaches to building security and communication. Becoming a Tier 1 Partner builds on Ventro Group’s wider security and building compliance capabilities, enabling us to provide clients with specialist technology alongside the expertise required to deploy and support it effectively. The investment in specialist manufacturer training forms part of our commitment to continually developing our technical expertise and ensuring our teams remain up to date with emerging products, technologies and best-practice installation methods. Building a Strong Partnership The training also provided an opportunity for our team to work directly with BAS-IP and Smart R Distribution, gaining valuable insight into the latest products, technologies and developments within the access control and door entry market. We would like to thank both BAS-IP and Smart R Distribution for organising the Technical Partner Training Programme and for their hospitality throughout our visit to Prague. Their expertise and support made the programme both productive and valuable for everyone involved. Achieving Tier 1 Partner Status marks the beginning of an even closer working relationship between our organisations. We look forward to working alongside BAS-IP and Smart R Distribution on future projects and using this partnership to provide our clients with high-quality, reliable and future-ready access control and door entry solutions. The Ventro Voice Achieving BAS-IP Tier 1 Partner Status is a great addition to our growing security capabilities and, importantly, gives our clients confidence that they are working with a team trained and supported directly by the manufacturer. The training in Prague gave our team the opportunity to develop their technical knowledge, work directly with BAS-IP specialists and better understand how the technology can support our clients across complex estates. We’re looking forward to building on the partnership and bringing that expertise into projects across the UK. Looking for support with access control, door entry or security systems across your estate? Speak to the Ventro team about how our accredited specialists can support your requirements.
Solar power is set to become considerably more accessible across Great Britain following the introduction of new rules allowing households to use plug-in solar panels. From the 27th of August 2026, compliant plug-in solar systems can legally be used across GB, allowing households to generate their own electricity without the more extensive, and traditionally more expensive installations associated with traditional rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems. It represents a positive development in the transition towards cleaner, more accessible energy. However, as solar installations become increasingly common across homes and buildings, electrical and fire safety must continue to develop alongside them. What are plug-in solar panels? Plug-in solar systems, sometimes referred to as balcony solar, are smaller photovoltaic systems designed to connect directly to a property's electrical supply through a compatible mains socket. Unlike traditional rooftop solar installations, they can potentially be positioned on balconies, terraces and other suitable outdoor areas, making solar generation accessible to households that may previously have been unable to install conventional rooftop systems. The Government estimates that compliant systems could provide around 20% of an average household's electricity consumption, potentially saving the average household around £110 per year. The relative simplicity of these PV systems could make solar generation an option for a much wider section of the population. Solar will play an important role in the UK's energy transition The introduction of plug-in solar should be viewed positively. Increasing the amount of renewable electricity generated at individual properties can reduce reliance on grid electricity, help households manage energy costs and contribute towards the UK's wider transition towards cleaner energy. Solar deployment is already growing rapidly. The UK surpassed two million solar installations in March 2026, demonstrating just how quickly the technology is becoming part of the country's energy infrastructure. However, rapid adoption also makes product quality, appropriate installation, maintenance and ongoing fire safety increasingly important. Solar panel fires are increasing While fires involving solar panels remain relatively uncommon compared with the number of installations across the UK, new research from global business insurer QBE highlights why fire safety must remain an important consideration as adoption increases. QBE gathered data through Freedom of Information requests to UK Fire and Rescue Services, finding that firefighters attended 212 fires involving solar panels in 2025, compared with 91 in 2022. This represents an increase of 133%, while the number of solar installations increased by around 52% over the same period. The research also found that residential properties accounted for the largest number of incidents, with 102 fires recorded during 2025. Perhaps more significantly, the number of fires that spread beyond the solar installation increased from 33 in 2022 to 88 in 2025. QBE's findings point towards DC cabling and connectors as the leading recorded cause, accounting for 49 incidents in 2025. Loose connections, damaged wiring and electrical faults can all contribute to increased fire risk. Adrian Simmonds, Risk Manager at QBE Insurance, emphasised that solar remains an important part of the UK's clean energy future, while warning that safety and risk mitigation need to remain a priority as deployment accelerates. These figures shouldn't discourage organisations or individuals from adopting solar technology. Instead, they reinforce the importance of ensuring that the rapid growth of renewable technology is accompanied by appropriate installation, inspection, maintenance and fire safety. What can cause fires involving solar installations? Solar PV technology is well established and, when appropriately designed, installed and maintained, the overall risk of fire remains low. However, like any electrical installation, faults can occur. Poor-quality connections, damaged DC cabling, defective components, unsuitable equipment and installation issues can all increase risk. Environmental factors such as weathering and damage from animals can also affect cabling over the lifetime of an installation. Maintenance therefore becomes particularly important as the UK's existing solar infrastructure ages. The introduction of plug-in systems brings another consideration: accessibility. Making solar easier to install is a significant benefit, but "plug-in" shouldn't be interpreted as meaning that every property or electrical installation is automatically suitable. What does plug-in solar mean for landlords and building owners? While plug-in solar is primarily being promoted as a consumer technology, its increasing popularity also raises questions for landlords, housing providers and those responsible for managing residential buildings. Residents may increasingly want to install panels on balconies, terraces and other external areas. Organisations responsible for large property portfolios should therefore consider whether they need a clear policy covering where systems can be installed and any approval required beforehand. The presence of panels should also be considered alongside the building's wider fire strategy. Installations shouldn't compromise escape routes or introduce additional risks around external wall systems. Particular consideration may be required where buildings are undergoing, or are scheduled to undergo, cladding remediation or other significant external works. Building information and emergency plans should also accurately identify the presence of photovoltaic systems. Solar panels can continue generating electricity during daylight even when the building's electricity supply has been isolated, creating an additional consideration for firefighters responding to an incident. 5 top tips if you're considering plug-in solar For households interested in taking advantage of the new technology, a few relatively simple precautions can help reduce electrical and fire risks. 1. Check your electrics first Before purchasing a system, consider having your electrical installation assessed by a competent electrician, particularly if you live in an older property or are unsure about the condition of your wiring and protective devices. Current guidance from Electrical Safety First recommends that circuits used for plug-in solar have appropriate protection, including at least a Type A bidirectional RCD. 2. Buy from a reputable supplier Choose a system specifically designed for use in the UK and purchase from an established, reputable retailer. With plug-in solar expected to become increasingly popular, consumers should be cautious about extremely cheap products from unknown sellers and ensure equipment meets the appropriate UK safety requirements. 3. Plug directly into a suitable socket Avoid the temptation to use an extension lead simply because it makes positioning the panels easier. Plug-in solar should not be connected through extension leads, cable reels, multiway adaptors or travel adaptors. Additional connections can introduce further opportunities for overheating, damage and electrical faults. 4. Stick to one system per household Adding additional systems might sound like an easy way of generating more electricity, but plug-in solar systems aren't designed to be continually added to the same electrical installation. Current requirements permit one plug-in solar system per household. Connecting multiple systems could interfere with the effectiveness of electrical protective devices. 5. Think carefully about positioning The position receiving the most sunlight isn't necessarily the safest place for a panel. Panels should be securely mounted and positioned so they don't obstruct windows, balconies, walkways or escape routes. This becomes particularly important within flats and multi-occupancy residential buildings. Residents should check with their landlord, freeholder or building manager before installing equipment, particularly where external walls, balconies or communal areas are involved. Don't forget existing solar installations The arrival of plug-in technology will understandably attract attention, but there are already more than two million solar installations across the UK. Building owners should therefore consider solar PV as part of their wider approach to electrical and fire safety throughout the lifecycle of a building. Regular visual inspections can help identify damaged panels, loose connections or deteriorating cables, while periodic professional inspection and testing can help identify faults before they develop into more significant problems. For organisations managing larger estates, keeping accurate records of where solar PV is installed, its condition and when it was last inspected can also support a more proactive approach to asset and compliance management. Ventro’s View: Supporting the transition safely Renewable energy and building safety should not be viewed as competing priorities. The continued expansion of solar generation is an important part of creating a cleaner and more resilient energy system. Making solar technology cheaper and more accessible has the potential to bring those benefits to considerably more households. The increase in reported fires should not be a reason to discourage solar adoption, but it is a reminder that electrical safety, product quality and ongoing maintenance need to keep pace with the technology. For households, this means making informed choices about the products they purchase and how they use them. For landlords and building owners, it means understanding how an increasing number of renewable technologies interact with existing electrical infrastructure and wider building fire safety. As our buildings become greener, ensuring they remain safe and compliant must continue to be part of the conversation.