The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 is the primary legislation governing fire safety in domestic and rental accommodation. The order places a duty on the responsible person (usually the owner or employer) to carry out a fire risk assessment, implement appropriate fire safety measures, and provide adequate training to staff and students.

There is a varied field of supporting literature which has helped create the standards for fire safety expected in sleeping accommodations, such as "Guidance on fire safety provisions for certain types of existing housing" produced by Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services and aimed at pre-existing housing. Additionally there is "Fire safety in purpose-built flats" by the Local Government Group for guiding tenements typically held by landlords. For non-domestic settings (i.e. worker housing or other sleeping/dining places) we can refer to Fire Safety Risk Assessment: Sleeping Accommodation.

In general, the basic principles of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 holds:

Means of Escape: Residential buildings (including houses, flats, shelters and any other residential spaces) must have clearly marked escape routes, unobstructed fire exits, and emergency lighting systems to help occupants evacuate the building safely in the event of a fire.

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems: All residential buildings must have appropriate fire detection and alarm systems in place, including smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual call points. The systems must be regularly maintained and tested to ensure they are in working order.

Fire Suppression Systems: Depending on the size and layout of the residential building, it may be required to install fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers or mist systems.

Fire Safety Signage: Clear and visible fire safety signs must be displayed throughout the residential building, including exit signs, fire extinguisher signs, and fire assembly point signs.