BAFE releases SP205 Version 6.0, which was officially published around midday on 7th November 2025, and will supersede Version 5.1 as of 31st March 2026. BAFE has issued direct communications to all certificated organisations to inform them of this update. This latest revision represents a complete overhaul of the scheme, introducing significant changes throughout the document. Among the most notable updates is the requirement for Regulated Qualifications, which will vary depending on the complexity of the fire risk assessment work being carried out.
Implementation and Timescales
Publication of V6.0: 7th November 2025
Supersedes V5.1: 31st March 2026
Certificated organisations will have until 31st March 2026 to fully comply with BAFE SP205 V6.0 and will continue to be assessed against V5.1 until that date.
New certificated organisations will also have until 31st March 2026 to comply fully with Version 6.0 but may choose to be audited against it earlier if prepared.
Both new and existing certificated organisations will have until 31st March 2028 to achieve the Regulated Qualifications necessary to meet the new competency requirements, based on the complexity of the fire risk assessment work undertaken.
General Layout Changes
The revised document adopts a new, logical structure that will serve as the model for future BAFE scheme documents.
Clauses 1–5: Foreword, Introduction, Scope, Terms/Conditions, and Normative References.
Clauses 6–10: Application process, Initial Certification Audit, Audit Decision, Certification, and Surveillance Audit.
Clauses 11–19: Life Safety Fire Risk Assessment Scheme requirements, including Management Systems and Competency.
Existing certificated organisations updating their procedures and documentation should focus primarily on Clauses 11 onwards to align with the revised scheme framework.
Organisations are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the new version and begin preparing for the transition ahead of the compliance deadline. Further updates and support materials will be released in due course.
SSAIB has issued a bulletin to its registered firms outlining these changes and will shortly release a gap analysis identifying the key areas of difference introduced in BAFE SP205 V6.0.
