The SIA and Martyn’s Law
The Security Industry Authority is the regulator. Here is what it will ask of you and what it can do.
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates Martyn’s Law across the UK. Responsible persons must notify the SIA of qualifying premises and events through an online portal; enhanced tier premises also send it a document. The SIA can inspect, usually with at least 72 hours’ notice, issue compliance and restriction notices, and impose penalties.
What is the notification duty?
The person responsible for the premises tells the SIA that the premises are in scope, through a GOV.UK portal the SIA is building. Standard tier premises notify but do not send their procedures. The SIA plans to ask for volunteers to test the portal in early 2027.
What happens at an inspection?
The SIA says it will take a risk-based approach, will usually give at least 72 hours’ notice, and will look at whether you have taken reasonable steps: that procedures exist, fit the building and staff know them. It will use compliance notices and, for enhanced tier, restriction notices before penalties. Read the SIA’s own guidance on its role.
Does the SIA approve consultants or courses?
No. The SIA and the Home Office say they do not endorse or recommend any company, product or course.
Before you pay anyone: the Home Office says premises do not need to buy consultancy to meet the standard tier, and its guidance, the SIA’s guidance and the ProtectUK training are free. Neither the Home Office nor the SIA endorses any provider, including us. The legal responsibility stays with the person responsible for the premises; we help with the work, we do not take the duty off you.
Want a second pair of eyes on it?
Send the venue type, the most people you would expect in at once, and how many sites you run. We will tell you which tier you look to be in and whether the free route is enough before quoting anything.
Common questions
Do I have to send my procedures to the SIA?
Not for the standard tier. Standard tier premises notify the SIA; enhanced tier premises and qualifying events also provide a document.
Will the SIA give notice of an inspection?
The SIA says it will usually give at least 72 hours' notice.