The rules for keeping lifts running are not just changing – they are getting smarter. Between new safety laws and the phase-out of traditional phone lines, 2026 is a pivotal year for property managers and owners across the UK.
Here is everything you need to know to stay compliant, safe, and operational.
The New Standard for Safety and Evacuation
Following the Grenfell Tower inquiry, the focus has shifted from simply getting people up to getting everyone out safely during an emergency.
Dual Evacuation Lifts
High-rise developments are now being pushed toward having dedicated evacuation lifts. These are designed to remain operational during fire incidents to assist those with limited mobility.
BS EN 81-76:2025
This new standard strengthens how we evacuate disabled persons. It ensures that firefighting and evacuation lifts are always rescue-ready and maintained to a higher level of scrutiny. For developers, this means lift installation projects must now view these systems as a critical part of a building’s safety strategy.
The Golden Thread of Information
Under the Building Safety Act 2022, vague maintenance records are no longer acceptable. High-risk buildings must now maintain a Golden Thread – a digital, up-to-date paper trail of every action taken on a lift. This includes:
- Full maintenance logs and repair history.
- LOLER inspection reports and fault reporting.
- Emergency procedures and safety upgrades.
Reactive maintenance (fixing it only when it breaks) is now a major compliance risk. Accurate record-keeping and regular lift servicing are essential to meet these legal requirements.
The Critical Regulatory Framework
Staying legal means understanding how different regulations overlap to protect passengers and workers.
LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998)
This remains the most important legal framework. Passenger lifts must receive a Thorough Examination by an independent person every 6 months, while goods lifts require one every 12 months. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement action and increased liability.
PUWER (Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998)
While LOLER covers the inspections, PUWER ensures that the lift is fit for purpose, safe for use, and supported by accurate lift maintenance records. Together, these form the foundation of lift safety in the UK.
The PSTN Switch Off and Emergency Alarms
One of the biggest operational challenges in 2026 is the analogue PSTN phone line switch-off. As traditional copper lines are phased out, many older lift emergency autodiallers will stop working.
This directly impacts compliance with BS EN 81-28. Without an upgrade to GSM or digital systems, building owners face:
- Non-compliant lift systems.
- Emergency communication failures.
- Potential insurance and liability issues.
If your lift still relies on an old phone line, urgent lift repairs and communication upgrades are necessary to ensure passenger safety.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
In 2026, a lift breakdown is not just an inconvenience; it is a liability. A proactive approach helps you:
- Avoid the PSTN Blackout: Ensure your emergency dials actually work when needed.
- Save Money: Catching a worn part during a routine service is significantly cheaper than an emergency call-out at 2 AM.
- Protect Accessibility: Reliable lifts are essential for building inclusivity and resident satisfaction.
How Sheridan Lifts Supports Your Business
Navigating the 2026 regulations does not have to be a headache. Sheridan Lifts provides a full suite of support to keep your building operational and compliant.
Whether you require a new lift installation to meet high-rise standards, rapid lift repairs for a breakdown, or a structured lift maintenance contract, our engineering team is here to help. We specialise in helping businesses transition from analogue systems to digital solutions, ensuring you never miss a compliance deadline.
Ready to audit your lift compliance? Contact Sheridan Lifts Today to book an assessment or discuss a maintenance plan that fits your building needs.