The Regulations are due to name three falls hazards: falls on the level (paragraph 18A), falling on stairs and similar (paragraph 21) and falling between levels (paragraph 22). GOV.UK’s triage guidance treats them together. Until the amending Regulations are made, the Phase 2 text is not settled. See the status on the Phase 2 hub.
Falls on the level
Not yet in forceFalls on level surfaces such as floors, yards, paths and gardens, all falls associated with a bath, shower or similar facilities, and falls associated with changes in level of up to 300mm such as thresholds, single steps and small slopes.
- Significant hazard: due from 30 November 2026, subject to the amending Regulations being approved and made.
- Emergency hazards: an emergency hazard of this type has applied since 27 October 2025 (all prescribed hazards except crowding and space).
- In Assure, reports can be recorded under this category, but the diagnosis and statutory clock are not yet built.
England · Due to take effect 30 November 2026 · Last checked 17 October 2026
Falling on stairs etc.
Not yet in forceAny fall associated with stairs, steps and ramps where the change in level is greater than 300mm, inside or outside, including shared access routes and fire escapes, sloping sections of gardens and falls over guarding on stairs, steps and ramps.
- Significant hazard: due from 30 November 2026, subject to the amending Regulations being approved and made.
- Emergency hazards: an emergency hazard of this type has applied since 27 October 2025 (all prescribed hazards except crowding and space).
- In Assure, reports can be recorded under this category, but the diagnosis and statutory clock are not yet built.
England · Due to take effect 30 November 2026 · Last checked 17 October 2026
Falling between levels
Not yet in forceFalls from one level to another where the change in height is more than 300mm, inside or outside the dwelling, for example from landings, windows, balconies, basement wells and garden retaining walls.
- Significant hazard: due from 30 November 2026, subject to the amending Regulations being approved and made.
- Emergency hazards: an emergency hazard of this type has applied since 27 October 2025 (all prescribed hazards except crowding and space).
- In Assure, reports can be recorded under this category, but the diagnosis and statutory clock are not yet built.
England · Due to take effect 30 November 2026 · Last checked 17 October 2026
Sources
- Awaab’s Law Phase 2: Guidance for social landlords (GOV.UK)
- Phase 2 guidance to support triaging of hazards (GOV.UK)
- Schedule 1, HHSRS Regulations 2005 (as amended)
General information, not legal advice. Check the primary source before relying on any statement, and take advice from a housing lawyer on your own position. Last reviewed 18 October 2026.
