The Act establishes the Security Industry Authority as the regulator. Implementation work has now begun, and we expect that this will take at least 24 months. The role of the SIA will be, in the first instance, to support and provide guidance but, importantly, it will be able to take enforcement action as appropriate to address non-compliance.
To support its investigations, the SIA will have powers to obtain information and inspect premises (Schedule 3: Investigatory powers).
For more detailed information on the regulator please refer to the following factsheet: Terrorism (protection of premises) Act 2025: The regulator, sanctions and enforcement factsheet - GOV.UK
Regulator Q&A
Who are the Security Industry Authority (SIA)?
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) is a Home Office arm’s length body established by the Private Security Industry Act 2001 as the regulator of the private security industry. It was set up to raise standards and drive out criminality from the industry and now plays a key role in public protection.
The SIA already plays an important role in safeguarding the public through its statutory and non-statutory work. It has a wealth of experience in inspecting and enforcing legislation which better protects the public.
The SIA currently has two key statutory functions:
- Licensing individuals who perform certain security roles specified in the Act (e.g. door supervisors and security guards). This includes setting the standards for the mandatory training required to obtain an SIA licence, and running criminal record and other checks to ensure that individuals are ‘fit and proper’ to hold a licence.
- Administering the Approved Contractor Scheme (ACS), a voluntary quality assurance scheme for private security businesses.
The SIA also supports key government public safety priorities by collaborating with the UK and devolved governments, local authorities, the police and business operators on activities relating to counter terrorism, violence against women and girls, and spiking.
Under the Act, the SIA must prepare guidance about how it will exercise its functions. This guidance must be approved by the Home Secretary before it can be published.
How will the regulator work in practice?
It is important that the SIA is operating as soon as is practicable to ensure that the positive effects of this legislation are felt. But it will take at least two years for these new regulatory functions to become fully operational. This timeline reflects the complexity of the task and is similar to other new regulators.
The SIA and the Home Office are working in partnership to build the regulator. This will ensure that there is the necessary funding, expertise and knowledge to build an effective regime.
The SIA and the Home Office will continue to engage with relevant stakeholders as needed to establish the functions.
How will the SIA work with Local Authorities?
Throughout the development of Martyn’s Law the Home Office have worked closely with stakeholders from central, local and devolved Government. In its current role the SIA already works closely with local authorities, including taking part in safety advisory groups for major events. The SIA will build on this experience to effectively implement Martyn’ Law.
How will the SIA ensure proportionate regulation?
The SIA’s approach to regulation will be founded in principles of good regulation – that its actions will be proportionate, consistent, transparent, accountable and targeted.
The focus of the SIA’s activity will be to educate and support those who fall within scope of this legislation. The regulator will take enforcement action where necessary to ensure compliance and drive public protection.
How will it be ensured that sanctions are proportionate?
The Act provides the SIA with a range of powers to take enforcement action, including issuing a monetary penalty. The Act requires the SIA to set a financial penalty amount that is proportionate to the contravention, and to take into account any action taken to remedy the contravention or mitigate its effects, and the person’s ability to pay.
The SIA must usually provide an opportunity to make representations regarding proposed enforcement action, and there is also a right of appeal to the Tribunal. The SIA will prepare guidance about how it will exercise its functions, including its powers of investigation and enforcement, which will be approved by the Home Secretary.
Will inspections/registering cost my business anything?
No. There will be no fee for notification to the SIA nor other charges, e.g. in relation to inspections or advice by the SIA.
Will my premises receive a public rating after inspection, in the same way as food standards?
No. Premises and events inspected by the SIA will not be given a public rating.
How will the regulator’s success be monitored and evaluated?
The Home Office will work closely with the SIA to develop its new regulatory functions. Once operational, the Secretary of State will monitor its performance to ensure that it is carrying out its functions under the Act effectively.
To find out further information about the role of the SIA and private security, please visit: Security Industry Authority - GOV.UK