Fire safety is not a “nice to have” — it’s a legal and moral obligation. A recent court case involving The Swan Brasserie Limited in West Malling, Kent, is a sobering reminder of the very real consequences of failing to meet statutory fire safety requirements.
At Admiral Security, we support duty holders across South Eastern counties and London in meeting their responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This case highlights why professional fire risk management is not only essential for compliance — but critical to protecting lives.
£46,000 Penalty for Fire Safety Breaches
In May 2025, The Swan Brasserie Limited was sentenced at Medway Magistrates’ Court after being found guilty of five serious breaches of fire safety legislation. The offences related to a building at the rear of the popular Swan Street premises in West Malling.
The company was fined £30,000, ordered to pay £16,215.03 in costs, and issued a £190 victim surcharge, bringing the total penalty to over £46,000.
What Went Wrong?
Following an inspection by Kent Fire and Rescue Service in December 2021, investigators uncovered significant fire safety failings, including:
- No fire detection or alarm system in place
- Inadequate or missing fire risk assessment
- Blocked escape routes and hazardous access
- Lack of emergency lighting
- Unsafe escape routes from upper floors
Each of these breaches put staff, customers, and the business itself at serious risk.
A Message to All Businesses and Duty Holders
In response to the ruling, Kent Fire and Rescue’s Area Manager, Suzanna Amberski, said:
“This case should serve as a reminder to businesses across the Kent and Medway region to adhere to fire safety regulations consistently in order to avoid prosecution – and most importantly, to keep everyone safe.”
That message rings true across the South East. Whether you are a landlord, business owner, facilities manager, or school leader — if you are responsible for a property, you are also responsible for fire safety compliance. Failure to meet your obligations can lead to prosecution, injury, or worse.
How Admiral Security Can Help
With over 30 years of experience, Admiral Security works with businesses, public sector organisations and schools across the region to provide end-to-end fire safety solutions. Our qualified team ensures you meet legal requirements and protect what matters most.
Our services include:
- Fire Risk Assessments – tailored, site-specific reports conducted by competent assessors.
- Fire Alarm System Installation, Testing & Maintenance – fully certified to industry standards.
- Emergency Lighting Design & Certification – ensuring safe evacuation in an emergency.
- Integrated Fire & Security Systems – complete peace of mind from a single provider
- Ongoing Servicing & Compliance Support – scheduled checks and fast response
All work is delivered by third-party accredited engineers, with full compliance to BAFE and NSI Gold standards.
Don’t Wait for an Incident to Act
Regulators are increasing enforcement activity — and rightly so. Make sure your business is prepared, compliant, and protected. Do not risk lives, reputation, or legal penalties by leaving fire safety to chance.
Speak to our compliance team today.
Or call us to book a Fire Risk Assessment or compliance check across The South East of England and London.
