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CQC14 Jul 2026

CQC Regulation 15 Premises and Equipment: what inspectors check and how to evidence compliance

Regulation 15 of the Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 requires registered providers to ensure that premises and equipment are clean, properly maintained and suitable for their intended purpose. It is one of the regulations most frequently cited in enforcement action.

Why this matters

Regulation 15 is not aspirational it is a legal duty with a criminal sanction. A breach does not require that anyone has been harmed. Failure to maintain premises in a safe condition is sufficient. CQC can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice or prosecute for a breach.

What to do
  • 1Review the CQC Regulation 15 guidance and map your maintenance and compliance records to each requirement.
  • 2Produce a brief "Regulation 15 evidence summary" document for use during any inspection list each obligation and where the evidence sits.
  • 3Ensure your registered manager is aware of what Regulation 15 requires and can discuss it confidently with an inspector.
Primary source
CQC Regulation 15: Premises and Equipment
View source
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