Do You Need a Certificate For Emergency Lighting?

Is an Emergency Lighting Certificate Legally Required in the UK?

Yes, an emergency lighting certificate is legally required for many buildings in the UK. Under the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005, all non domestic properties must have properly maintained emergency lighting systems. These systems must be regularly tested and certified to ensure they comply with British Standard BS 5266-1, which sets out the code of practice for emergency lighting installation and maintenance.

Who Needs an Emergency Lighting Certificate?

Emergency lighting certification is required for properties where emergency lighting is legally mandated. This includes:

• Commercial premises such as offices, warehouses and factories

• Rental properties with communal areas including flats and houses in multiple occupation

• Public buildings such as schools, hospitals and care homes

• Shops, restaurants, hotels and other hospitality businesses

• Any workplace where emergency lighting is installed

Property owners, landlords and employers are responsible for ensuring emergency lighting meets legal requirements and is certified following inspections.

What Does Emergency Lighting Certification Involve?

A qualified professional must carry out an inspection to check that emergency lighting systems meet British Standard BS 5266-1 and function correctly in case of a power failure. This process includes:

• Confirming emergency lighting units provide sufficient illumination for escape routes

• Checking that all fittings and batteries function correctly

• Verifying that backup power sources operate for the full required duration

• Testing fire exit signs that contain emergency lighting

• Recording results and issuing a compliance certificate

If any issues are found, remedial work must be carried out to bring the system up to standard before a certificate is issued.

How Often Should Emergency Lighting Be Tested?

Regulations require emergency lighting systems to be tested at different intervals to ensure they remain fully operational:

• Monthly function tests should be carried out by the responsible person to confirm lights switch on correctly

• Annual full duration tests should be completed by a qualified professional to ensure the system runs for the required length of time, usually three hours

• Routine inspections should be documented, and records should be available for fire safety authorities if requested

What Happens If a Property Does Not Have an Emergency Lighting Certificate?

Failure to maintain and certify emergency lighting can lead to severe consequences, including:

• Fines of up to £5,000 for minor breaches

• Unlimited fines or imprisonment for serious non compliance

• Increased liability in case of fire related injuries

• Business closure orders issued by fire and rescue authorities

• Invalidated insurance claims due to failure to meet fire safety standards

Ensuring emergency lighting is properly maintained and certified is a legal duty that protects occupants and reduces legal risks for property owners.

How to Arrange an Emergency Lighting Certificate

A qualified electrician or fire safety assessor must perform emergency lighting inspections. Once the system has passed all required checks, a certificate of compliance will be issued. To remain compliant, businesses and landlords should schedule regular testing and keep accurate records of all inspections.

For expert guidance, book an emergency lighting inspection with a trusted fire safety provider.

What Other Fire Safety Measures Are Required?

Emergency lighting is just one part of a broader fire safety strategy. Property owners should also ensure:

• Fire risk assessments are carried out regularly

• Fire safety equipment such as extinguishers and alarms meet legal requirements

• Landlord fire safety regulations are followed for rental properties

• Commercial fire safety compliance is maintained for workplaces

Ensuring emergency lighting is tested and certified is a legal responsibility that helps protect lives and property. If you need assistance, contact Landlord Building Certificates for professional inspections and compliance support.

Landlord Building Certificates
130 Blenheim Road, Harrow HA2 7AA
07300 998666