Government Extends Waking Watch Replacement Funding: What It Means for Building Safety

As building safety remains a critical issue - particularly in high-rise residential developments - the need for reliable, long-term fire protection has never been greater. Whilst Waking Watches have become a common interim measure, the UK government’s extension of the Waking Watch Replacement Fund to March 2026 means that now is the perfect time to consider a safer, more efficient, and more sustainable solution.

What Is a Waking Watch?

According to the Leasehold Advisory Service, a Waking Watch is a fire-safety measure in which trained personnel continuously patrol a building - both internally and around its perimeter - to monitor for signs of fire and ensure residents receive immediate warning if one occurs.

Waking Watches are typically required when dangerous cladding is present or when fire-safety concerns mean a building can no longer rely on a ‘stay put’ policy and must instead move to a simultaneous evacuation strategy. When implemented, a Waking Watch operates 24 hours a day, providing constant vigilance until permanent fire-safety improvements, such as fire detection and alarm installations, can be completed.

The Cost and Challenges of Waking Watches

Whilst Waking Watches offer short-term reassurance, their drawbacks are significant and are not designed to be a long-lasting or cost-efficient solution. Government data from June to September 2020 revealed a median monthly Waking Watch cost of £11,361 per building or £137 per dwelling. These expenses escalate quickly, especially as building remediation can take years. Besides the financial strain, prolonged use of Waking Watches can heighten occupants’ anxiety and delay the adoption of more reliable, permanent fire safety solutions.

The following table (from the Simultaneous Evacuation Guidance (SEG) 4^th Edition, p.10) gives an outline of the recommended timeframes referred to and examples of actions that a Responsible Person for a building should take:

Government Funding Extension

Recognising these ongoing challenges, the government has extended the Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2023 with an additional £21.11 million, now available until March 2026. This extension is aimed at helping building owners and managers replace costly, temporary Waking Watch patrols with permanent alarm systems.

With the deadline now extended, building owners and property managers have a renewed opportunity to eliminate recurring Waking Watch costs and invest in lasting safety infrastructure.

The Ideal Solution

For those seeking a robust, future-proof fire safety solution, Cygnus’ world-first fully EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system stands out. SmartNet ensures rapid installation, robust coverage, and long-term peace of mind, without the disruption of traditional wired installations. The patented Cygnus wireless mesh technology guarantees comprehensive coverage, allowing building managers to confidently stand down expensive Waking Watch patrols.

Key advantages of SmartNet include:

• Cost Efficiency
  Dramatically reduces ongoing fire-safety expenditure compared to high monthly Waking Watch fees.
• Rapid Installation
  100% wireless technology enables far quicker installation than traditional wires systems.
• Minimal Disruption
  No cabling, no intrusive works, and no need to vacate homes - ideal for occupied residential blocks.
• Full Compliance
  SmartNet is fully EN 54 certified, ensuring your building meets rigorous fire safety standards.
• Future-Proof Investment
  With funding now extended, upgrading to SmartNet is a smart, long-term strategy for safety, compliance, and cost control.

Secure a Safer Future with Cygnus

Waking Watches have served a purpose, but more sustainable, reliable options are available. With the government’s Waking Watch Replacement Fund now extended to March 2026, investing in a fully EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire alarm system is not only cost-effective but a decisive move towards the safety and confidence every resident deserves.