Does Martyn's Law apply to me? Free checker
Six questions, about two minutes. Free, with no account needed. Which buildings are covered?
Question 1 of 6
What the checker asks
The checker follows the tests in the Terrorism (Protection of Premises) Act 2025. It asks:
- Whether your premises are a building, or a building with land around it.
- What the building is mainly used for, from a list based on the uses in the Act.
- Whether members of the public, including a congregation, pupils, members or guests, come in for that purpose.
- The largest number of people, including staff and volunteers, it is reasonable to expect at the same time, from time to time.
- Whether part of the building is used for something else, such as offices or flats, so you count only the public-facing part.
- Whether you hold ticketed, paid or members-only events for 800 or more people.
For question 4, count your busiest regular period, not a one-off and not the average. Our guide to working out your capacity explains the six Home Office methods.
What your result means
Out of scope
Your premises do not meet the tests, usually because fewer than 200 people can reasonably be expected at once. You have no legal duty under Martyn's Law, though many such venues still choose to have simple procedures.
Standard tier
Most premises where 200 to 799 people can be expected are standard tier. The responsible person must notify the Security Industry Authority (SIA) and have procedures for evacuation, invacuation, lockdown and communication, so far as reasonably practicable, that staff know how to carry out.
Standard tier at any size
Places of worship, nurseries and childcare settings, primary and secondary schools, and further education colleges are standard tier however many people attend. Universities and other higher education institutions are not included in this rule.
Enhanced tier
Other premises where 800 or more people can be expected are enhanced tier, with further duties including a compliance document. The pack is not built for the enhanced tier. See the government guidance and consider professional help.
Qualifying events
Ticketed, paid or members-only events for 800 or more people may be qualifying events with enhanced duties, unless they are held at a place of worship or an education setting.
What to do with your result
If you are standard tier, confirm who the responsible person is and who will act for them, then agree your procedures, brief your people and set a yearly review date. The Act is expected to come into force in spring 2027, with the date to be confirmed. Read Martyn's Law explained, the guide for your venue in our guides, or see what's in the pack.
Questions about the checker
Is the checker result a legal decision?
No. It is a guide based on your answers and the tests in the Act. The responsible person must decide whether the premises are covered, and the SIA regulates the law. If your situation is unusual, check the government guidance or take advice.
What number should I use if attendance varies a lot?
Use your busiest regular period, such as a weekly peak, a festival service or an annual event that happens most years, including staff and volunteers. A genuine one-off that will not recur does not count.
We hire our hall out. Who is responsible?
Whoever controls the premises, usually the management committee, not the person hiring the hall.
Do I need to notify the SIA now?
Not yet. Notification opens when the Act comes into force. You can prepare your details now so they are ready.