Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he is taking steps to ensure that site freeholders are financially responsible for fighting fires within derelict buildings.

Owners of derelict buildings have obligations in respect of fire safety measures. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as amended by Section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022, the “Responsible Person” (usually the owner or person in control of the premises) must:

- Carry out and record a fire risk assessment

- Take steps to reduce fire risks

- Maintain fire safety measures — even in non-occupied or derelict buildings

Owners of derelict buildings are also required to liaise with their council tax authority concerning payment of council tax.