The Waking Watch Replacement Fund was established to pay the costs of installing common alarm systems in all residential buildings in England where Waking Watch measures are currently in place, regardless of where the costs of the waking watch fall.
On 11 April 2025 the government announced the £20.6 million Fund would be extended until March 2026, with up to £21.11 million of additional funds.
The £41.71 million Fund now extends financial support to more buildings and is aligned with guidance published by the National Fire Chief's Council (NFCC) on buildings that change from a 'Stay Put' to a 'Simultaneous Evacuation' fire safety strategy.
Leaseholders who may have faced high costs, or delays in the implementation of interim safety measures, will be supported through the scheme.
Applications are accepted from private building owners (the Responsible Person for a building or entity nominated by them to apply on their behalf). To be eligible, the building must residential (used primarily for residential accommodation, including student accommodation), and it must be located in England.
The intention is to allocate funds to eligible buildings on a first come, first served basis until the whole of the £41.71 million fund is exhausted or the application period closes.
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