Firefighting & Evacuation Lift Inspection Services East Sussex
From evacuation lifts in Brighton hospitals to firefighting lifts in Eastbourne and high-rise developments in Hastings, these specialist systems are crucial for safe evacuation and emergency access. Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, building owners and managers in East Sussex must ensure firefighting and evacuation lifts are regularly checked, maintained and documented to protect lives and comply with the law.
At Excel Inspection Solutions, we carry out firefighting and evacuation lift inspections across East Sussex, supporting clients in Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes and Newhaven. Our experienced engineer surveyors work to the standards set out in Regulation 7 and National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) guidance, ensuring every inspection meets legal and operational requirements.
What counts as a firefighting or evacuation lift?
Firefighting lifts are designed to give firefighters safe access to upper floors during an emergency. They feature water-resistant controls, smoke protection and emergency power supplies and are typically found in buildings over 18 metres tall.
Evacuation lifts are designed to help people who cannot use stairs — such as wheelchair users or residents with limited mobility — safely evacuate a building. These systems are vital across East Sussex in hospitals, care homes, schools, and residential towers.
Your responsibilities under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
Under Regulation 7, all high-rise residential buildings in East Sussex must have:
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Routine inspections of firefighting and evacuation lifts
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Monthly checks conducted by a responsible person
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Accurate records of inspections, accessible to residents and fire services
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Prompt reporting and repair of any lift faults or failures
These responsibilities apply to both new and existing buildings and form part of the national fire safety reforms implemented after the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.
Why regular inspection matters in East Sussex
In an emergency, a malfunctioning lift can prevent safe evacuation or slow down rescue efforts. Regular inspections ensure:
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Backup power, alarms and communication systems work correctly
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Fire-rated controls and emergency overrides operate as designed
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Compliance with Regulation 7 and NFCC best practice
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Duty holders demonstrate clear compliance and due diligence
Whether in Brighton’s healthcare facilities or Eastbourne’s coastal residential towers, we help ensure every lift operates safely and reliably when it matters most.
Our fire lift inspection process in East Sussex
Our inspection process is tailored to meet the requirements of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and NFCC guidance. It includes:
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A visual and functional inspection of all lift systems
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Testing of alarms, emergency power, intercoms and override functions
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Verification of compliance with Regulation 7 and fire safety standards
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Immediate notification of faults or high-risk issues
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A comprehensive digital report with photos and recommendations
All reports are suitable for audits and can be shared with residents or local fire services upon request.
Why choose Excel Inspection Solutions in East Sussex
From residential buildings in Brighton to care homes in Lewes and offices in Eastbourne, we provide professional, compliant inspections across East Sussex.
Local clients choose us for:
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In-depth understanding of the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
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Qualified surveyors experienced in firefighting and evacuation lift inspections
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Digital, Regulation 7-compliant reporting
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Risk-based advice and clear recommendations
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Coverage across Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes and Newhaven
Fire Lift Inspection FAQs East Sussex
Are firefighting lifts and evacuation lifts the same?
No. Firefighting lifts allow emergency crews to access upper floors, while evacuation lifts help residents or staff with limited mobility to exit safely.
How often should firefighting and evacuation lifts in East Sussex be checked?
Regulation 7 requires monthly checks by a responsible person, with professional inspections recommended at least annually.
Who is responsible for inspections in East Sussex buildings?
The building owner, responsible person or managing agent must ensure inspections are carried out and records maintained.
Do your reports meet Regulation 7 requirements?
Yes. Our reports fully meet Regulation 7 and NFCC guidance and can be provided to residents or fire authorities.
Do you inspect lifts in hospitals, care homes or schools in East Sussex?
Yes. We regularly inspect firefighting and evacuation lifts in healthcare, education, commercial and residential properties across East Sussex.
Firefighting and evacuation lift inspections across East Sussex and the South East
Excel Inspection Solutions provides firefighting and evacuation lift inspections across East Sussex, including Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings, Lewes and Newhaven. As part of the Engineer Surveyor Inspection Network (ESiNet), we also provide inspection coverage across the South East and nationwide.
Other statutory inspections in East Sussex
Looking for support with more than just lift inspections? Excel Inspection Solutions provides a full range of statutory inspection services across multiple equipment types — from mobile plant and pressure systems to cranes and work at height equipment. Explore our other core services below.