UK Stair Nosing Penalties – What Happens If You’re Not Compliant in 2025
3rd Jul 2025
Penalties and Risks of Non-Compliant Stair Nosings in the UK
Stair nosings aren’t just a finishing touch — they’re a legal requirement in most commercial and public buildings. Failing to install compliant nosings can expose you to serious legal, financial, and safety risks. Learn 7 Common Stair Nosing Compliance Mistakes to avoid.
1. Legal Liability Under Health & Safety Law
Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, property owners and employers must provide a safe environment. Non-compliant stair nosings — whether they lack slip resistance or visibility — can lead to:
- Enforcement action by the HSE
- Personal injury claims from falls
- Criminal liability in severe injury cases
Failure to comply could result in substantial fines or prosecution.
2. Breach of the Equality Act 2010
The Equality Act 2010 requires all public buildings and workplaces to be accessible to those with disabilities. That includes providing proper stair nosing for visually impaired users.
Common compliance failures include:
- Insufficient colour contrast on nosings
- Incorrect width (less than 30 mm or over 55 mm)
- Worn or poorly maintained strips
Download LRV Stair Nosing Guide (PDF)
3. Increased Accident Risk & Insurance Complications
Injuries due to slips and falls on stairs are among the most common liability claims in the UK. Non-compliant or worn stair nosing increases that risk significantly.
Even worse, insurance providers may reject claims if your premises fail to meet safety standards like BS 8300 or Part M. Read our guide on Stair Nosing & Accessibility: DDA, BS 8300 & Equality Act UK.
4. Costly Retrofits and Enforcement
If your building fails a fire inspection, building control visit, or access audit, you may be forced to retrofit compliant nosings immediately — often at higher cost than during original installation.
- Failed DDA access audits
- Fire safety non-conformance
- Part M/BS 8300 violations
5. Delays in Commercial Approvals
New builds or refurbishments may be denied occupancy certificates if stair nosings fail to comply with:
- Building Regulations Approved Document K & M
- BS 8300-2:2018 design guidance
That means delayed openings, lost revenue, and extra admin.
Worried About Compliance?
We stock a full range of compliant stair nosings designed for commercial, public and fire exit stairs. Avoid costly penalties and protect your building’s future.